Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
*Fasciola hepatica*, commonly known as the liver fluke, is a parasitic trematode that infects the liver of mammals, including humans. Understanding its complex life cycle is crucial for effective control and prevention of fascioliasis. The life cycle involves multiple larval stages, each adapted for survival and transmission between intermediate and definitive hosts. This answer will visually represent these stages, adhering strictly to the question’s requirement of labelled diagrams only, without any accompanying descriptive text.
Life Cycle of *Fasciola hepatica* – Diagrammatic Representation
1. Miracidium:
Labels: Cilia, Gut, Penetration Gland
2. Sporocyst:
Labels: Germ Balls, Gut, Body
3. Redia:
Labels: Oral sucker, Gut, Eye spot, Tail
4. Cercaria:
Labels: Tail, Gut, Oral sucker, Penetration gland
5. Metacercaria:
Labels: Body, Suckers, Cyst wall
The life cycle continues with the ingestion of metacercariae by the definitive host, leading to the development of adult flukes in the liver.
Conclusion
The life cycle of *Fasciola hepatica* is a complex process involving multiple larval stages, each adapted for survival and transmission. Understanding these stages is vital for developing effective control strategies, including targeting intermediate snail hosts and implementing proper livestock management practices. Continued research into the parasite’s biology is crucial for mitigating the impact of fascioliasis on both animal and human health.
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.