Lecanicephaloidea

(invertebrate zoology) An order of tapeworms of the subclass Cestoda distinguished by having the scolex divided into two portions; all species are intestinal parasites of elasmobranch fishes.

An order of tapeworms of the subclass Cestoda. All species are intestinal parasites of elasmobranch fishes. These tapeworms are distinguished by having a peculiar scolex divided into two portions. The lower portion is collarlike and bears four small suckers; the upper portion may be discoid or tentacle-bearing and is provided with glandular structures (see illustration). The scolex is usually buried in the intestinal wall of the host and may produce local pathology. The anatomy of the segments is very similar to that of the Proteocephaloidea. See also Cestoda.

Anterior end of a lecanicephaloid tapeworm.