Category: Invertebrates
These microscopic and near-microscopic pseudocoelomates are common in freshwater environments all over the world (and a few species can be found in salt-water as well). Rotifers have bilateral symmetry and are divided into head, trunk, and foot regions. Their most distinctive feature is the ciliated “corona” on their head. These coronal cilia form a current that sweeps food particles into their mouth. These cilia can also be used to pull the rotifers through the water when not attached to a substrate. One class of rotifer, the Bdelloidea, are assumed to have not sexually reproduced for millions of years – there are actually no males within the species and the females reproduce only through parthenogenesis!
Rub some dirt on it!
Could it be we have been too good at ridding our bodies of parasitic worms? Believe it or not, our efforts at keeping squeaky-clean and sanitary in the developed world may be contributing to increased allergies, asthma, psoriasis, even autoimmune diseases. The human immune system, having evolved with parasitic worms, recognizes them, and has learned to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing when these tiny intruders are sensed. While getting worms may be seen as too high a price to pay for many, for people suffering from severe allergies or colitis, it may be worth it. Victims of multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s disease have shown a promising reduction in symptoms (even remission in Crohn’s) after ingesting whipworm eggs - a treatment that may be worth it to some until a cure is found!
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Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
