How Do You Spell POROCEPHALUS ARMILLATUS?

1. Porocephalus armillatus is a species of parasitic worm, belonging to the family Porocephalidae. It is commonly referred to as the "Armillary Worm" due to the distinctive shape and appearance of its body.

   The adult Porocephalus armillatus worm is relatively small in size, measuring around 3 to 5 centimeters in length. It possesses a cylindrical body covered with a tough outer cuticle, which is segmented into numerous rings or bands, resembling the shape of an armillary sphere or a bracelet. This unique feature gives rise to its specific armillatus epithet.

   These parasitic worms usually inhabit the intestines of reptiles, such as lizards and snakes, and occasionally birds. They rely on their specialized mouthparts to attach to the intestinal walls and extract nutrients from the host's blood and tissues. Porocephalus armillatus reproduces through the production of eggs that are released into the environment through the host's feces.

   Although generally harmless to their host, the presence of Porocephalus armillatus in large numbers can potentially cause intestinal inflammation, blockages, and other related complications. Therefore, it is important to monitor and control the worm population in captive reptiles to prevent severe infestations.

   In conclusion, Porocephalus armillatus is a species of parasitic worm characterized by its cylindrical body segmented into rings or bands, resembling a bracelet. It is commonly found in the intestines of reptiles and occasionally birds. While typically harmless, excessive infestations of Porocephalus armillatus can lead to intestinal complications and necessitate appropriate management.

2. A species occurring in the python, the larva or nymph being occasionally found in man.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for POROCEPHALUS ARMILLATUS

The word "Porocephalus armillatus" is an amalgamation of two terms: "Porocephalus" and "armillatus".

- The term "Porocephalus" comes from the Greek words "poros" meaning "pore" or "opening", and "kephalē" meaning "head". It refers to a genus of parasitic worms known as pentastomids that lack a digestive system and have a prominent head with multiple pores.

- The term "armillatus" is derived from the Latin word "armilla" meaning "bracelet" or "armlet". It is used to describe a biological feature or characteristic of the organism in question. In this case, "armillatus" likely refers to the segmented appearance or ring-like markings found on the body of the species "Porocephalus armillatus".