|
Once it has found it's host, the miracidium divides producing thousands
of new parasites (cercariae). The cercariae are then excreted by the host
into the surrounding environment. They can penetrate an individual within a few
seconds, continuing their biological cycle once they have made their way to the
victim's blood vessels. Within 30 to 45 days, the parasite is transformed into a
long worm which is either male or female. The female lays from 200 to 2000 eggs
per day over an average of 5 years, according to the species.
**** |
|