Difference between Roundworm and Hookworm - Testbook
IMPORTANT LINKS
What are Roundworms?
Roundworms, classified under the phylum Nematoda, are mostly parasitic organisms. They can be found in a variety of environments. These thin, elongated worms typically measure between 0.1 and 2.5 mm in length. A collagenous cuticle coats their epidermis, and beneath this layer lies a layer of muscle cells. They are unique due to their tubular digestive system and openings at both ends.
Parasitic roundworms include species such as ascarids , hookworms, pinworms, filarias, and whipworms. These organisms primarily inhabit the upper layer of soil.
What are Hookworms?
Hookworms are blood-sucking, parasitic, intestinal roundworms. Noteworthy species of hookworms include Nectar americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale. The first can only infect by penetrating the skin, while the latter can also infect through the oral route. These worms are characterized by their hooked appearance, which aids in attachment to the intestinal wall.
Further Reading: Phylum Nematoda
Comparing Roundworm and Hookworm
|
Roundworm |
Hookworm |
|---|---|
|
Roundworms or nematodes encompass a variety of slender parasitic worms. |
Hookworms are a specific type of blood-feeding, parasitic, intestinal roundworm. |
|
Roundworms include both parasitic and non-parasitic species. |
Hookworms are exclusively parasitic and blood-feeding. |
|
Roundworms are generally round or curved in shape. |
Hookworms have a distinctive hooked form that enables them to attach to the intestinal walls. |
|
Roundworms include species such as ascarids, hookworms, pinworms, filarias, and whipworms. |
Notable hookworm species include Nectar americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale. |
Learn More: Hookworm Life Cycle
Frequently Asked Questions
What are flatworms?
Flatworms or platyhelminths are soft-bodied, unsegmented invertebrates. They are simple bilaterians with no body cavity. They have only one opening for both egestion and ingestion. Examples – Tapeworms and flukes.
What are helminths?
Worms are termed helminths. Most of them infest the gastrointestinal tract, while some can reside in blood vessels (schistosomes). Helminths include both roundworms and flatworms.
What is a hookworm infection?
It is a type of infection caused by hookworms. Typically one hookworm does not show any symptoms. Infestation by many worms can create diarrhoea, tiredness, abdominal pain, and weight loss. The initial symptom includes rash or itching at the site of infestation. Severity can also lead to anaemia.
- 22 Full Test (Prelims)
- 15 Sectional Test (Prelims)
- 89 Chapter Test
- 10 Full Test (Mains)
- 51 GA/CA Special Test
- 12 Sectional Test (Mains)
- 27 Memory Based Paper
- 46 Memory Based STs
- 12 Descriptive Writing