The Hookworm
By Alex Thomas
Where it Lives
The hookworm lives in the small intestine of a mammal, such as a dog, cat, or human.
How it Feeds
It sucks blood from the intestines and can cause damage to mucosa (mucous membranes).
How it Reproduces
The hookworms mate inside the host. The female lays her eggs in the feces of the host, up to 30,000 a day.
Hosts of Choice
Mainly humans, but it also goes for other mammals, such as cats and dogs.
Special Adaptations to Deal with Host
Necator americanus: Penetrates the skin to enter the body Ancylostoma duodenale: enters by ingestion, Both stay in the intestine by sucking on the mucous membranes
Size
Necator americanus- males: 5-9 mm. females: 9-11 mm. Ancylostoma duodenale- males: 8-11 mm. females: 10- 13 mm.
Interesting Facts
- Well developed mouths, two pairs of teeth
- 80 million seriously affected today
- Cause loss of iron and protein in gut