From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia   (Redirected from
Trematode) Jump to: navigation, search Botulus microporus.jpg
Botulus microporus, a giant digenean parasite from the intestine
of a lancetfish Scientific classification e Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Platyhelminthes Class: Trematoda Rudolphi, 1808
Trematoda is a class within the phylum Platyhelminthes. It
includes two groups of parasitic flatworms, known as flukes.
They are internal parasites of molluscs and vertebrates. Most
trematodes have a complex life cycle with at least two hosts.
The primary host, where the flukes sexually reproduce, is a
vertebrate. The intermediate host, which is the agent of
dispersal, is usually a snail.  Taxonomy and biodiversity[edit]
The trematodes or flukes include 18,000[1] to 24,000[2] species,
divided into two subclasses. Nearly all trematodes are parasites
of mollusks and vertebrates. The smaller Aspidogastrea,
comprising about 100 species, are obligate parasites of mollusks
and may also infect turtles and fish, inclu