
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)
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.