In the life cycle of *Schistosoma mansoni*, what is the primary function of the cercariae?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the life cycle of Schistosoma mansoni, a parasitic worm. Specifically, it's asking what the cercariae stage does. To answer this, we need to know the different stages of the parasite's life cycle and what each stage does.
Answer
The primary function of *Schistosoma mansoni* cercariae is host penetration.
The primary function of Schistosoma mansoni cercariae is to locate and penetrate the skin of humans, the definitive host, to continue its life cycle.
Answer for screen readers
The primary function of Schistosoma mansoni cercariae is to locate and penetrate the skin of humans, the definitive host, to continue its life cycle.
More Information
Cercariae are the larvae form of the Schistomsoma mansoni parasite. They emerge from snails and swim in water to find their human host to burrow into.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking the cercariae's main function is reproduction, however, this happens later in the life cycle after it has infected the host and matured.
Sources
- Cercaria - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
- An Atlas for Schistosoma mansoni Organs and Life-Cycle Stages ... - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Ultrastructure of the Schistosoma mansoni cercaria - ScienceDirect - sciencedirect.com
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