Scolex
Scolex of the pork tapeworm
The scolex (from Greek σκώληξ skṓlēx , "worm", Pl. Σκώληκες skṓlēkes , Scolices) is a structure that is formed in the tapeworms ( Cestoda ; only with Eucestoda ) and represents the front end. It is used to attach the animal in the intestinal lumen of the host and for this reason has special designs that allow attachment. These usually consist of an apical ring of hooks, the rostellum and suction cup structures. The formation of the Scolex is one of the central features for the classification in the system within the tapeworms.