What is the common name for schistosomes?

The common name for schistosomes is "blood flukes." This term derives from their parasitic nature and their adult forms residing in the blood vessels of their host, particularly in the intestines or bladder. Schistosomes are a type of trematode (fluke) that can cause schistosomiasis, a disease that affects millions of people worldwide.

The name reflects their anatomical and life-cycle specifics, as these organisms penetrate the skin of their hosts and later mature into adults residing in the bloodstream, contrasting with other types of flukes that may inhabit different sites or have different life cycles. Understanding this terminology is important in both clinical settings and in the field of microbiology, where clear identification of pathogens is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.