The adult tapeworm of Echinococcus granulosus is found in the intestine of which animal?

The adult tapeworm of Echinococcus granulosus resides in the intestines of dogs, which serve as the definitive host for this parasite. In dogs, the tapeworm can reach maturity and reproduce. This adult stage of the parasite is responsible for shedding eggs into the environment through the feces of the infected dogs.

Sheep, cattle, and humans are incidental hosts in the life cycle of Echinococcus granulosus. Sheep and cattle can become infected with the larval stage of the parasite, leading to the formation of hydatid cysts. Humans can accidentally become infected through ingestion of the eggs, but they do not host the adult tapeworm, as it is not adapted to thrive in the human intestinal environment. Therefore, recognizing dogs as the definitive host is crucial for understanding the transmission and life cycle of Echinococcus granulosus.