Wikipedia:Today's featured article/November 26, 2024
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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 proboscis with 40 to 45 hooks arranged in rings which are used to pierce and hold the rectal wall of its host and a long trunk. 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 then eaten by the giant golden mole where they mature and reproduce sexually within the lower gastrointestinal tract, creating eggs which are released in the feces. (Full article...)