noun
Diphyllobothrium (genus of tapeworms)
Scientific term for a genus of tapeworms that can infect humans through raw or undercooked fish. Used in medical and biological contexts.
裂頭条虫はサケやマスの生食によって感染することがある。
Diphyllobothrium can be transmitted by eating raw salmon or trout.
Compound of 裂頭 (rettō, 'split head', referring to the scolex morphology) and 条虫 (jōchū, 'tapeworm'). The exact derivation is uncertain, but the name describes the worm's appearance.