What is the appearance of eggs of the common roundworm?

The appearance of eggs from the common roundworm, specifically Ascaris lumbricoides, is characterized as oval and thick-shelled. These eggs have a distinctive morphology that includes a rough, mammillated outer surface. The thick shell helps protect the eggs from environmental factors, allowing them to survive in soil for extended periods and remain viable as infectious agents for new hosts.

This durability is crucial for transmission, as it increases the likelihood of the eggs being ingested by human hosts, where they will later hatch and develop into larvae. The oval shape aids in their dispersal and anchoring mechanisms within the environment. Understanding this aspect of roundworm eggs is fundamental in parasitology, as it provides insights into their lifecycle and implications for human health, particularly in regions where sanitation may be compromised.