This plasma membrane is in turn associated with a layer of carbohydrate-containing macromolecules known as the glycocalyx, that varies in thickness from one species to another.
The proximal cytoplasm contains nuclei, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complex, mitochondria, ribosomes, glycogen deposits, and numerous vesicles.
Glutathione S-transferase, ATP diphosphorylase, alkaline and acid phosphatases, β-glucuronidase, amino peptidase, acetylcholine esterase, phosphofructokinase, glucose transporters, serine hydrolases and several glycolytic enzymes have been detected with their biological roles.
Since cestodes are devoid of any digestive and excretory systems, the tegument with its microtriches constitute the principal site of absorption of nutrients and elimination of waste materials.
[7] In trematodes the tegument contains a number of invaginations or surface pits, and is externally lined with minute tubercles among which are dispersed bristle-like projections called "spines".
[5] The microtriches in cestodes, and pits and spines in trematodes increase the surface area of the teguments for enhanced absorption of nutrients.