Dayalbagh Educational Institute G.D. / Seminar presentation Acanthocephala Presented by- Sonam kumari Acanthocephala are parasitic worms with a spiny proboscis that infect the intestines of animals. They have complex life cycles involving an invertebrate host and a vertebrate host. Over 1420 species have been described. They absorb nutrients through their body wall and have no digestive or respiratory systems. Common parasites of wildlife and domestic animals, some species can accidentally infect humans. Control in fish farms involves medicated feed containing anti-parasitic compounds.