Bug Identifier
Proglottid (Tapeworm segment)
Community identification

Proglottid (Tapeworm segment)

Dipylidium caninum or Taenia species

Order & Family
Order: Cyclophyllidea, Family: Dipylidiidae or Taeniidae
Size
3mm to 12mm (size of a grain of rice when dried)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

The small intestine of mammals (host); segments are shed and found in feces, bedding, or around the host's pelvic region.

Diet & Feeding

Absorbs nutrients directly from the host's intestinal contents through the tegument (skin).

Behavior Patterns

The proglottid is a detached reproductive segment that can crawl independently for a short time after exiting the host to distribute eggs into the environment.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: Parasitic infection in pets and occasionally humans (especially children). Benefits: None (harmful parasite). Requires anthelmintic medication and flea control for treatment.