Morpho-Functional Adaptations of Scolex Structures in Cestodes Parasitizing Domestic Chicken (Gallus Domesticus)

Cestode infections are common in domestic chickens (Gallus domesticus) and may negatively affect poultry health and productivity.  The ability of these parasites to persist in the host intestine largely depends on specialized attachment organs located in the scolex.  These organs typically include muscular suckers, a protrusible rostellum, and rows of chitinous hooks that enable the parasite to attach firmly to the intestinal mucosa. Different genera of avian cestodes demonstrate considerable variation in the structure of these attachment organs. This review compiles and synthesizes published research describing the morphology of attachment organs in intestinal cestodes infecting domestic chickens. Particular emphasis is placed on structural differences observed among genera such as Raillietina, Choanotaenia, Davainea and Hymenolepis. Understanding these variations contributes to accurate species identification, improved taxonomic classification, and better insight into host–parasite interactions in poultry production systems.