General information
Anoplocephala perfoliata is the most common type of tapeworm in horses. It is globally distributed; in Germany, focal prevalences of up to 30% are described. The moss mite acts as intermediate host; mites infected with tapeworm larvae are ingested by the horse while grazing. Within 6 – 10 weeks, the larvae develop into adult tapeworms. The adult worms colonise the mucosa of the small and large intestine, mainly the ileocecal valve, and cause local erosion and ulceration. Colic-like symptoms may occur.