Bug Identifier
Tapeworm segment (Proglottid)
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)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.