User:Axblain

Heptamegacanthus is a genus of acanthocephalans (thorny- or spiny-headed parasitic worms) containing a single species, Heptamegacanthus niekerki. This worm is a parasite of the endangered giant golden mole found only in isolated forests near East London and in the Transkei, both in South Africa. The worms are about 4 millimetres (0.2 in) long and 2 millimetres (0.08 in) wide with minimal sexual dimorphism. Their body consists of a short trunk and a proboscis with 40 to 45 hooks arranged in rings, which are used to pierce and hold the rectal wall of its host. The life cycle of H. niekerki remains unknown; however, like other acanthocephalans, it likely involves complex interactions with at least two hosts. Although the intermediate host for Heptamegacanthus is not definitively identified, it is presumed to be an arthropod, such as an insect, which is eaten by the giant golden mole. The worms then mature and reproduce sexually within the mole's lower gastrointestinal tract, creating eggs which are released in its feces. (Full article...)

Recently featured:

• Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
• The Importance of Being Earnest
• Sydney Newman

Tip of the moment... Editing projects for school and university classes The School and university projects page collects information about Wikipedia editing projects for school and university classes, including an archive of many past class projects. A list of current classes using Wikipedia can be found at current projects. Prior tip – Tips library – Next tip See also: Course pages   Education noticeboard   Wikipedia:Education program   Become a Wikipedia tipster To add this auto-randomizing template to your user page, use {{totd-random}}

Latest news from Wikinews

Visit Wikinews to read and write news articles in more detail.