"Ascaris mystax" refers to a species of roundworm found in the intestines of birds and other animals. The spelling of this word is based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription system, which represents the sounds of the English language. In this system, "Ascaris" is pronounced as [æs'kærɪs], while "mystax" is pronounced as ['mɪstæks]. The correct spelling of this scientific name is crucial to avoid any confusion and ensure accuracy in research and identification of the species.
Ascaris mystax, commonly known as the European rabbit worm or the whisker ascarid, is a species of parasitic roundworm belonging to the phylum Nematoda. These worms are predominantly found within the digestive tract of rabbits, particularly the small intestine.
The adult Ascaris mystax worm is cylindrical in shape, measuring up to 10 centimeters in length and 2-3 millimeters in diameter. It is characterized by its distinct whiplike appearance, with a tapered anterior end and a wider posterior end. The body of the worm is covered in minute longitudinal ridges, giving it a rough texture.
Ascaris mystax is an intestinal parasite that feeds on the nutrients present in the rabbit's gut. Female worms are capable of producing large quantities of eggs, which are then expelled from the host's body through feces. These eggs are oval-shaped and possess a thick protective shell, allowing them to survive harsh environmental conditions until they are ingested by another host, such as a rabbit.
When rabbits ingest the eggs of Ascaris mystax, the larvae hatch in the small intestine and penetrate the intestinal wall, entering the bloodstream and migrating to various organs, such as the liver and lungs. After completing their larval development, the worms migrate back to the small intestine, where they reach maturity and begin reproducing.
Infections caused by Ascaris mystax can often result in digestive disturbances, malnourishment, and stunted growth in rabbits. Controlling the spread of this parasite typically involves regular deworming and implementing proper hygiene and sanitation practices.
A species parasitic in dogs, cats, and some wild carnivores, and occasionally in man; it is characterized by a spatulate shape of the head produced by lateral membranous expansions of the cuticle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Ascaris" is derived from the Greek term "askaris" meaning "intestinal worm" or "intestinal parasite". The term "mystax" is derived from the Greek word "mystax" meaning "whiskered" or "moustached". So, "Ascaris mystax" is a combination of the generic name "Ascaris" referring to a genus of parasitic worms, and the specific epithet "mystax" indicating a characteristic of having whisker-like structures.