Question

In cattle, gasterophilus is a term used for

• A. Gut ectoparasite
• B. Gut endoparasite
• C. Brain ectoparasite
• D. Brain endoparasite

Hint:

Remember the prefix "Gastero-" refers to the stomach or digestive system. "Endo-" means inside. Thus, it is an internal stomach parasite.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Gasterophilus refers to a genus of flies commonly known as "bot flies" or "stomach bots."
The term "bot" describes the larval stage of these flies, which lives inside the host's body.
Detailed Explanation:
While Gasterophilus species are most commonly associated with horses and equines, the term in veterinary entomology broadly refers to the nature of this parasitic relationship.
The adult female fly lays eggs on the host's hair.
The host licks the eggs, and the moisture/warmth causes them to hatch.
The larvae then migrate into the mouth and eventually to the stomach and intestinal tract.
Inside the gut, they attach to the lining using specialized mouth hooks.
Because they live inside the digestive system (internal environment), they are classified as endoparasites.
More specifically, because they reside in the gastrointestinal tract, they are "gut endoparasites."
They feed on inflammatory exudates or tissue. Once fully grown, they are passed out in the feces to pupate in the soil.
In cattle, similar "bot" infestations can occur, though the genus Hypoderma (warble flies) is more common in cows. However, the question asks for the classification of Gasterophilus as a parasite type.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Gasterophilus is a gut endoparasite.