Roundworm
Roundworms belong to the phylum Nematoda. Most of them are parasitic in nature. They inhabit a diverse range of environments. They are slender worms that are typically 0.1 to 2.5 mm in length. Their epidermis is covered by a collagenous cuticle. Below the epidermis is a layer of muscle cells. Their unique feature is the presence of a tubular digestive system. They also have openings at both ends.
The parasitic roundworms comprise the ascarids, hookworms, pinworms, filarias and whipworms. The majority of them reside in the top layer of the soil.
Hookworm
They are a type of blood-feeding, parasitic, intestinal roundworms. The two notable species of hookworms are Nectar americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale. The former can only infect by penetrating the skin, while the latter can also infect through oral routes. Most of them have a hooked appearance, and they get attached to the wall of the intestine.
Also Read: Phylum Nematoda
Difference between Roundworm and Hookworm
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Roundworm |
Hookworm |
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Roundworms or nematodes include many slender parasitic worms. |
It is a type of blood-feeding, parasitic, intestinal roundworm. |
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It includes both parasitic and free-living species. |
It includes blood-feeding parasites. |
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Most of them are round or curved in appearance. |
They have a hooked appearance with which they get attached to the intestinal walls. |
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It includes the ascarids, hookworms, pinworms, filarias and whipworms. |
The two notable species of hookworms are Nectar americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale. |
Explore: Hookworm Life Cycle
Frequently Asked Questions on Difference between Roundworm and Hookworm
What are flatworms?
Flatworms or platyhelminths are soft-bodied, unsegmented invertebrates. They are simple bilaterians with no body cavity. They have only one opening for both egestion and ingestion. Examples – Tapeworms and flukes.
What are helminths?
Worms are termed helminths. Most of them infest the gastrointestinal tract, while some can reside in blood vessels (schistosomes). Helminths include both roundworms and flatworms.
What is a hookworm infection?
It is a type of infection caused by hookworms. Typically one hookworm does not show any symptoms. Infestation by many worms can create diarrhoea, tiredness, abdominal pain, and weight loss. The initial symptom includes rash or itching at the site of infestation. Severity can also lead to anaemia.
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