Artigasia

Artigasia is a genus of nematodes belonging to the family Kathlaniidae. These parasitic roundworms are primarily found in the digestive tracts of reptiles, particularly in lizards and turtles. Artigasia species are characterized by their distinctive morphology and life cycle, which involves ingestion of eggs by the definitive host. The nematodes can cause various health issues in their host animals, ranging from mild irritation to more severe intestinal inflammation and related complications, depending on the species and the worm burden. Identification of Artigasia species often relies on microscopic examination of adult worms and their characteristic features, such as the shape of the esophagus and the presence of any specialized structures. Further research is ongoing to better understand the diversity, distribution, and pathogenic potential of this genus of nematodes.