Draw a transverse sectional diagram of female Ascaris and label it.

How to Approach

This question requires a precise and accurate diagrammatic representation of the female Ascaris’s transverse section. The approach should focus on clearly illustrating and labeling all key internal structures. Prioritize accuracy in anatomical details. The answer should be concise, focusing solely on the diagram and its labels, as the question explicitly asks for a diagram. No descriptive text beyond the labels is necessary. A neat and well-labeled diagram is crucial for scoring well.

Model Answer

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Introduction

Ascaris lumbricoides is a common intestinal nematode parasite affecting humans worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Understanding its anatomy is crucial for comprehending its life cycle, pathogenesis, and control measures. The female Ascaris is larger than the male and possesses a distinctive reproductive system. A transverse section reveals the arrangement of internal organs, providing insights into its physiological functions. This answer provides a labeled diagram of the female Ascaris’s transverse section.

Here's a transverse sectional diagram of the female Ascaris, with key structures labeled:

Labels:

1. Cuticle: The outer protective layer.
2. Epidermis: Layer beneath the cuticle.
3. Muscle Layer: Longitudinal muscle cells.
4. Body Cavity (Pseudocoelom): Fluid-filled space.
5. Intestine: Digestive tract.
6. Uterus: Contains fertilized eggs.
7. Oviduct: Connects ovary to uterus.
8. Ovary: Produces eggs.
9. Vagina: Receives sperm.
10. Vulva: External opening.
11. Nerve Cord: Runs along the length of the body.
12. Excretory Canal: Removes waste products.
13. Lateral Line: Sensory organ.

The diagram illustrates the cylindrical body shape and the prominent reproductive organs characteristic of the female Ascaris. The intestine occupies a significant portion of the body cavity, reflecting its role in nutrient absorption. The uterus is filled with eggs, demonstrating the parasite’s high reproductive capacity.

Conclusion

The transverse section of the female Ascaris reveals a relatively simple yet efficient anatomical organization adapted for parasitic life. Accurate identification of these structures is fundamental to understanding the parasite’s biology and developing effective control strategies. This diagram serves as a crucial visual aid for students studying parasitology and related fields, highlighting the key features of this important human pathogen.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Pseudocoelom

A fluid-filled body cavity that lies between the body wall and the digestive tract. It is not fully lined with mesoderm, distinguishing it from a true coelom.

Cuticle

The outermost layer of an invertebrate's body, providing protection and preventing desiccation. In nematodes like Ascaris, it is a tough, flexible, and non-cellular layer.

Key Statistics

Approximately 1.5 billion people are infected with Ascaris lumbricoides worldwide.

Source: World Health Organization (WHO), 2023 (knowledge cutoff)

Ascaris lumbricoides is responsible for an estimated 60,000 deaths annually worldwide.

Source: PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2018 (knowledge cutoff)

Examples

Ascaris Infection in Children

Ascaris infection is particularly prevalent in children due to poor sanitation and hygiene practices. Heavy worm burdens can lead to malnutrition, stunted growth, and intestinal obstruction in affected children.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the significance of the large uterus in female Ascaris?

The large uterus is a key adaptation for producing a massive number of eggs, ensuring the parasite’s successful propagation and transmission to new hosts.

Topics Covered

BiologyZoologyParasitologyNematodesAnatomyReproductive System

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