What is the scientific name for hookworm?

• A. Dipylidium caninum
• B. Toxocara canis
• C. Ancylostoma caninum
• D. None of these

Answer: (C)

Hookworms are intestinal nematodes that attach to the lining of the small intestine, often causing blood loss and anemia. The dog’s hookworm is scientifically named Ancylostoma caninum, which is the specific species most commonly encountered in canine infections. The other listed parasites represent different groups: Dipylidium caninum is a tapeworm, not a hookworm; Toxocara canis is a roundworm. None of these are hookworms, so the correct scientific name for the hookworm among the options is Ancylostoma caninum.