Cestidae’ refers to a family of flatworms known as tapeworms, which belong to the class Cestoda. These parasitic worms are characterized by their long, flat bodies divided into segments called proglottids. They typically inhabit the intestines of vertebrates, where they absorb nutrients from the host’s digested food. Tapeworms are known for their complex life cycles, often involving intermediate hosts. The term ‘Cestidae’ derives from the Greek word ‘kestos,’ meaning girdle or belt, reflecting the appearance of these organisms.
