Tapeworm segment (Proglottid)

Natural Habitat

The digestive tracts of mammals (dogs, cats, and occasionally humans); shed segments are typically found near the tail, in bedding, or on carpets.

Diet & Feeding

Absorbs nutrients directly from the host's digested food through its skin while inside the intestine.

Behavior Patterns

Once shed, the segments are initially motile and can crawl short distances. They eventually dry out, resembling yellow sesame seeds, and release thousands of microscopic eggs into the environment.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include intestinal infection (helminthiasis), nutritional deficiencies, and irritation in the host. Benefits include none to the host; they are obligate parasites. In dogs and cats, infection usually occurs from swallowing an infected flea.

Identified on: 1/1/2026