Ancylostomidae – Definition & Meaning

Ancylostomidae is a term that refers to a family of parasitic nematodes that infect animals and humans. These worms are commonly known as hookworms and are found in warm and humid regions of the world. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of Ancylostomidae, its origin, and its associations.

Definitions

Ancylostomidae is a family of parasitic nematodes that infect animals and humans. These worms have a hook-like mouthpart that they use to attach themselves to the intestinal wall of their host. They feed on the host’s blood, which can lead to anemia and other health problems.

Origin

The word Ancylostomidae comes from the Greek words “ankylos” meaning crooked and “stoma” meaning mouth. The family was first described by the French zoologist Henri Marie Ducrotay de Blainville in 1827.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, Ancylostomidae is a family of nematode worms that includes the hookworms. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as a family of parasitic nematodes that have a hook-like mouthpart.

Associations

Ancylostomidae is associated with parasitic infections in animals and humans. Hookworms can cause anemia, malnutrition, and other health problems in their hosts. They are commonly found in warm and humid regions of the world, where poor sanitation and hygiene practices can contribute to their spread.

Synonyms

The synonyms of Ancylostomidae include hookworms, Necatoridae, and Ancylostomatidae.

Antonyms

There are no antonyms of Ancylostomidae as it is a specific term that refers to a family of parasitic nematodes.

The same root words

The same root words as Ancylostomidae include “ankylos” meaning crooked and “stoma” meaning mouth. These words are also found in other scientific terms such as ankylosis and stomatitis.

Example Sentences

1. The veterinarian diagnosed the dog with an Ancylostomidae infection.
2. The prevalence of Ancylostomidae is high in tropical regions with poor sanitation.
3. The scientist studied the morphology of Ancylostomidae to understand its life cycle.