pentostomida (tongue worms)

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Introduction

A group of parasitic worm-like organisms, considered to form a distinct phylum, thought to be descendent from primitive arthropods. Organisms are elongated, pseudosegmented & worm-like. Larvae have 2-3 pairs of bud-like degenerate limbs. Adults have anterior, hollow, fang-like hooks. Adults are usually parasitic in the lungs & respiratory tract of vertebrates, usually snakes & reptiles, but also birds & mammalian carnivores (Linguatulidae). Larvae are found in the viscera of many hosts that serve as prey for the final host. Pentastomiasis occurs when humans become infested with larval tongue worms.