Flukes, or trematodes (Class Trematoda), are nonsegmented flatworms that possess an oral sucker (and sometimes a second ventral sucker) used to attach to the inner walls of host organs, such as the intestines, lungs, liver, or large blood vessels. They have complex life cycles, often involving multiple hosts. Examples of trematodes include *Fascioloides magna* and *Fasciola hepatica*.

Flukes (Trematodes)

Tapeworms (cestodes) are a class of flatworms (platyhelminths) that are segmented and utilize suckers or hooks located at their head region (scolex) to attach to the wall of the host's small intestine.

Tapeworms (Cestodes)

Turbellarians are mostly free-living flatworms, including planarians, and are less medically relevant than tapeworms and flukes.

Turbellarians 

Among the medically important flatworms (platyhelminths), tapeworms (cestodes) are segmented, whereas flukes (trematodes) are unsegmented.

Segmented and Unsegmented Medically Important Flatworms

The phylum Platyhelminthes (flatworms) contains groups such as turbellarians (which include planarians), monogeneans, flukes (trematodes), and tapeworms (cestodes). Among these, flukes and tapeworms are medically important parasites.

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Flatworms, or platyhelminths, are symmetrical, flat-bodied worms that lack blood vessels and extensive digestive tracts. This group includes tapeworms and flukes, which are medically important parasites frequently transmitted to hosts through undercooked meat.

Flatworms (Platyhelminths)

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Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

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