Question

Ascaris is a specialised and not a degenerated parasite as it is

• A. With a straight alimentary canal
• B. Dioecious
• C. Without respiratory organ
• D. Covered by cuticle resistant to digestive juices of host

Answer 1

The correct option is D Covered by cuticle resistant to digestive juices of host

Ascaris shows various parasitic adaptation due to the parasitic mode of life.

• Morphological adaptations: The mouth is bounded by three lips which help the parasite to attach with the mucous membrane of the host’s intestine.
  
• Anatomical adaptations: The pharynx is muscular that facilitates ingestion of food by sucking action. There are no digestive glands.
  

• Physiological adaptations: The body wall is covered with a tough, thick and resistant cuticle, shields against the digestive enzymes of the host and anti­toxin.
  

So, the correct answer is 'Covered by cuticle resistant to digestive juices of host'.