The most horrifying parasites on the planet
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The Frightening World of Parasites
Parasites have a notorious reputation, and rightfully so. These minuscule creatures are worth avoiding at all costs due to their terrifying nature. One of the most common parasites is the Filarial Worm, which is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. The larvae of these worms live and grow in our bodies, often taking years to mature into full adults. Their presence may initially cause inconspicuous rashes and sores. However, as they mature, they work together to block the vessels of your lymphatic system, leading to a build-up of fluid and diseases like elephantiasis, one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.
The Dreaded Pinworm
Another parasite that is worth avoiding is the pinworm. Pinworm eggs are often ingested due to contaminated or dirty hands. The eggs hatch and mature in your gut, and the adult female exits the anus to lay a new batch of eggs on the surrounding skin, turning your body into a nest. This causes intense itching, often leading to re-contaminated hands or fingernails, which can end up in your mouth again, restarting the cycle. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain good hygiene, especially washing hands and fingernails regularly.
Pubic Lice and Other Parasites
Pubic lice, sometimes referred to as ‘crabs’, are another type of parasite. They can be found in eyebrows, beards, or even eyelashes. The itching caused by these parasites is due to an allergic reaction to their saliva. Treatment involves medication or shaving off the affected hair. Abstinence or safe sex, along with not sharing underwear, can serve as preventative measures.
Parasites in Marine Animals
Some parasites are meant for marine animals but end up in humans. The Anisakis Nematode infects humans after eating raw or undercooked fish, like sushi, which contains the larvae. The worms penetrate our gut wall and cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. However, the nematode can’t mature in a human gut and eventually dies. Another marine parasite is the Tongue Biter, a tongue-eating louse that chews off a fish’s tongue and clings onto the stub in its place. It feeds on the fish’s blood while mating and dispersing its progeny into the ocean.
The Zombie Ant Fungus
The Cordyceps are fungi known for creating ‘zombie ants’. The fungus takes over the ant’s body and mind, making it leave the colony and climb upward to a more ideal temperature and humidity. The ant then bites onto a stem or leaf and gets locked into position until it dies. At this point, the fungus bursts through the ant’s head and spreads outward. The question remains whether such a parasite could ever affect humans. For everyone’s sake, we hope not!
Discussion Questions
- What are some of the common parasites that humans can be infected with?
- How do parasites like the Filarial Worm and Pinworm cause harm to the human body?
- What are some preventative measures that can be taken to avoid parasite infections?
- Are there any unique parasites that are specific to marine animals?
- How does the Cordyceps fungus control the behavior of ants?
- Can parasites like the Cordyceps fungus affect humans in the same way?
- What role does James Cook University play in the field of parasitology?
- Where can more information about parasites and research be found?
Lesson Vocabulary
parasites – organisms that live off and benefit from another organism, often causing harm to the host – The tick is a common parasite that feeds off the blood of mammals.
filarial worm – a type of worm found in the blood and tissues of vertebrates, including humans, and transmitted through mosquito bites – The filarial worm causes a disease called lymphatic filariasis.
mosquito bites – red, itchy bumps on the skin caused by female mosquitoes inserting their mouthparts into the skin to feed on blood – I always apply mosquito repellent to avoid getting itchy mosquito bites during outdoor activities.
larvae – the immature form of an insect, usually with a distinct appearance and different lifestyle from the adult stage – The larvae of a butterfly are commonly known as caterpillars.
rashes – irritated or inflamed areas of the skin, often characterized by redness, itchiness, and bumps – The allergic reaction to the new detergent caused a rash on my arms and legs.
sores – open wounds or ulcers on the skin or mucous membranes – Cold sores are painful blisters that form on or around the lips.
lymphatic system – a network of vessels, nodes, and organs in the body that help regulate fluid balance and fight infections – The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in the immune response.
elephantiasis – a condition characterized by extreme swelling and enlargement of body parts, usually due to obstruction of the lymphatic vessels by filarial worms – The man had advanced elephantiasis, causing his legs to become grotesquely swollen.
pinworm – a small, white parasitic worm that commonly infects the intestines of humans, especially children – Pinworm infections can cause intense itching around the anus.
contaminated hands – hands that have come into contact with harmful substances or disease-causing microorganisms – It is important to wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom to avoid spreading bacteria with contaminated hands.
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- Categories: Science & Technology, TED Ed, Video Lessons
- Keywords: contaminated hands, elephantiasis, filarial worm, larvae, lymphatic system, mosquito bites, parasites, pinworm, rashes, sores
