Final answer:
The smallest fluke affecting domestic animals is the intestinal fluke, specifically Fasciolopsis buski. These flatworms are ingested from contaminated aquatic plants and can cause a range of symptoms, diagnosed via fecal exams or immunoassays.
Step-by-step explanation:
The smallest fluke of domestic animals is generally considered to be the intestinal fluke,
Flukes, or trematodes, are nonsegmented flatworms that have a variety of species associated with diseases in both humans and domestic animals. Among the various types of flukes, the intestinal flukes like Fasciolopsis buski, which causes fasciolopsiasis, are noteworthy because of their impact on the health of affected hosts. These intestinal flukes are ingested through contaminated aquatic plants and take up residence in the intestines of their host.
Symptoms of an intestinal fluke infection can range from asymptomatic to severe, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, allergic reactions, and anemia. To diagnose an intestinal fluke infection, fecal examinations or immunoassays are typically used. Treatment usually involves antiparasitic medication.