Porocephalus

Porocephalus is a genus of pentastomids, which are tiny parasites belonging to the subclass Pentastomida, now generally considered part of the phylum Arthropoda. These organisms range from a few millimeters to about 14 cm in length and lack respiratory, circulatory, and excretory organs.1

Pentastomids inhabit the respiratory systems of vertebrate hosts, with reptiles being the most common victims. Specifically, Porocephalus species are parasitic in snakes and rodents. Some pentastomids, like certain Lingulata species, parasitize mammals, including dogs, and a few are of medical concern due to human infestation. The order Porocephalida, which includes Porocephalus, is characterized by the female genital pore being located posteriorly and includes parasites of mammals and reptiles.12