Cyclophyllidea

Cyclophyllidea, also known as Taenoidea, is an order within the class Cestoda, which are parasitic flatworms commonly called tapeworms. This order primarily includes tapeworms that parasitize birds and mammals.12

Key characteristics of Cyclophyllidea include:
* Scolex: The head region possesses four suckers for attachment to the host.1
* Reproductive System: They have a single, compact vitellarium located behind the ovary.1
* Uterine Pores: Unlike some other tapeworm orders, Cyclophyllidea lack uterine pores.1

Tapeworms in general are elongated, segmented parasites that lack a digestive tract and absorb nutrients directly through their body covering. They are hermaphroditic, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs. The life cycles of tapeworms are complex, often involving intermediate hosts before reaching their definitive host.2