Wikipedia:Today's featured article/November 26, 2024
Heptamegacanthusis a genus ofacanthocephalans(thorny- or spiny-headedparasitic worms) containing a single species,Heptamegacanthus niekerki.This worm is aparasiteof the endangeredgiant golden molefound only in isolated forests nearEast Londonand in theTranskei,both in South Africa. The worms are about 4 millimetres (0.2 in) long and 2 millimetres (0.08 in) wide with minimalsexual dimorphism.Their body consists of a short trunk and aprobosciswith 40 to 45 hooks arranged in rings, which are used to pierce and hold therectalwall of its host. The life cycle ofH. niekerkiremains unknown; however, like other acanthocephalans, it likely involvescomplex interactionswith at least two hosts. Although theintermediate hostforHeptamegacanthusis not definitively identified, it is presumed to be anarthropod,such as an insect, which is eaten by the giant golden mole. The worms then mature and reproduce sexually within the mole'slower gastrointestinal tract,creating eggs which are released in its feces. (Full article...)