Question

Why are tapeworms successful compared to the rest of platyhelminthes?

Answer 1

Tapeworms (cestodes) are elongated and act as endoparasite . They posses alimentary canal but lack epidermis which is modified for absorbtion and secretion. They are capable of completing their life cycle within 1 hour and has wide host range . Their body is distinguished into 3 segments . Scolex is specialized for attachment. Each proglottid segment act as an individual. Any proglottid segment pair can exchange sperm for reproduction as they are hermaphrodite. Their body wall has a tegument with microvilli for increased absorption. The tegument also secrete thick protective cuticle. These features makes tapeworm unique from other class of platyhelminthes.