Dog Roundworm (infesting animal feces)

Intestines of domestic and wild dogs; eggs and larvae are shed in feces onto lawns, soil, and grass.

Endoparasitic; feeds on partially digested food content within the host animal's intestinal tract.

Larvae hatch in the host's stomach, migrate through the intestinal wall, bloodstream, and lungs, and mature in the small intestine. Parasite eggs and whole or partial worms are expelled through host defecation.

High health risk: Causes toxocariasis in humans (visceral/ocular larva migrans) if accidentally ingested. No ecological benefits; poses parasite risks to pets and humans.