
Community identification
Tapeworm segment (Proglottid)
Dipylidium caninum
- Order & Family
- Cyclophyllidea, Dipylidiidae
- Size
- 3 to 12 mm in length (roughly the size of a grain of rice)
Natural Habitat
Adults live in the small intestines of dogs and cats; segments are found in feces, bedding, or fur near the host's rear.
Diet & Feeding
Absorbs nutrients through its skin from the digested food within the host animal's intestine.
Behavior Patterns
The gravity segments break off from the main worm and are mobile when fresh, often crawling out of the anus to disperse eggs. Once dry, they resemble sesame seeds.
Risks & Benefits
Risk of infection to pets and occasionally humans (especially children) if a flea carrying the larvae is accidentally swallowed. No ecological benefits; considered an internal parasite.