Paragonimus Westermani

This student page has not been curated.

Legend. Image credit: Name or Publication.

Classification

Eukaryota; Platyhelminthes; Trematoda; Plagiorchiida; Troglotrematidae

Species

Platyhelminthes Paragonimus Westermani

Description and Significance

Paragonimus Westermani is a part of the Paragonimus species which are hermaphroditic parasitic lung flukes. These leaf-shaped flatworms contain both male and female reproductive organs, structures, and tissues. These flukes are endemic to Southeast Asia, South America, and South Africa. They are rare in North America and Europe. These flukes infect humans who ingest undercooked crabs or crayfish that contain the Paragonimus Westermani parasite. This is significant for the southern portion of countries where crab and crayfish are endemic and have a prominent role in the food web and economy.

Genome Structure

Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence?

Cell Structure, Metabolism and Life Cycle

Interesting features of cell structure; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.

Ecology and Pathogenesis

Habitat; symbiosis; biogeochemical significance; contributions to environment.

If relevant, how does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.

References

[Sample reference] Takai, K., Sugai, A., Itoh, T., and Horikoshi, K. "Palaeococcus ferrophilus gen. nov., sp. nov., a barophilic, hyperthermophilic archaeon from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent chimney". International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology. 2000. Volume 50. p. 489-500.

Author

Page authored by _____, student of Prof. Bradley Tolar at UNC Wilmington.