Define about the Sporocyst Larva?

Sporocyst is the second larval stage in the life cycle of F. hepatica. It develops from the miracidium larva within the pulmonary chamber of its snail host. It shows extreme degree of parasitism. As a result alimentary canal and locomotry organs are absent.

i) Sporocyst is an elongated sac-like structure, covered with cuticle.

ii) Body wall of the sporocyst consists of sub epithelial cells, mesenchyme and muscle layers.

iii) Body sac contains germ cells and flame cells.

iv) It is a non-feeding stage.

v) Germ cells within the sporocyst give rise to the next larval stage known as redia larva which develop within it. One sporocyst may give rise to 5-6 redia.