1
|
Junsiri W, Kamkong P, Taweethavonsawat P. First molecular detection and genetic diversity of Hepatozoon sp. (Apicomplexa) and Brugia sp. (Nematoda) in a crocodile monitor in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3526. [PMID: 38347146 PMCID: PMC10861490 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54276-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The crocodile monitor (Varanus salvator) is the most common monitor lizard in Thailand. Based on habitat and food, they have the potential to transmit zoonoses, with a high possibility of infecting ectoparasites and endoparasites. Diseases that could infect crocodile monitors and be transmitted to other animals, including humans. This research aims to identify and evaluate the phylogenetic relationships of Hepatozoon sp. and sheathed microfilaria in crocodile monitors. The phylogenetic analyses of Hepatozoon, based on 18S rRNA, and sheathed microfilaria, based on the COX1 gene, revealed that the Hepatozoon sp. were grouped with H. caimani, while sheathed microfilaria were grouped together with B. timori. This study provides insights into the genetic diversity and host-parasite interactions of hemoparasites in crocodile monitors in Thailand.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Witchuta Junsiri
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Patchana Kamkong
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Piyanan Taweethavonsawat
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
- Biomarkers in Animals Parasitology Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Genetic diversity, phylogenetic position, and co-phylogenetic relationships of Karyolysus, a common blood parasite of lizards in the western Mediterranean. Int J Parasitol 2023; 53:185-196. [PMID: 36736608 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The genus Karyolysus was originally proposed to accommodate blood parasites of lacertid lizards in Western Europe. However, recent phylogenetic analyses suggested an inconclusive taxonomic position of these parasites of the order Adeleorina based on the available genetic information. Inconsistencies between molecular phylogeny, morphology, and/or life cycles can reflect lack of enough genetic information of the target group. We therefore surveyed 28 localities and collected blood samples from 828 lizards of 23 species including lacertids, skinks, and geckoes in the western Mediterranean, North Africa, and Macaronesia, where species of Karyolysus and other adeleorine parasites have been described. We combined molecular and microscopic methods to analyze the samples, including those from the host type species and the type locality of Karyolysus bicapsulatus. The phylogenetic relationship of these parasites was analyzed based on the 18S rRNA gene and the co-phylogenetic relationship with their vertebrate hosts was reconstructed. We molecularly detected adeleorine parasites in 37.9% of the blood samples and found 22 new parasite haplotypes. A phylogenetic reconstruction with 132 sequences indicated that 20 of the newly detected haplotypes clustered in a well-supported clade with another 18 sequences that included Karyolysus galloti and Karyolysus lacazei. Morphological evidence also supported that K. bicapsulatus clustered in this monophyletic clade. These results supported the taxonomic validity of the genus. In addition, we found some parasite haplotypes that infected different lizard host genera with ancient diverging histories, which suggested that Karyolysus is less host-specific than other blood parasites of lizards in the region. A co-phylogenetic analysis supported this interpretation because no significant co-speciation signal was shown between Karyolysus and lizard hosts.
Collapse
|
3
|
Haemogregarines of the genera Haemogregarina, Hemolivia, and Hepatozoon Infecting Vietnamese Freshwater Turtles, with Additional Notes on Primer Specificity and Primer-template Mismatches Affecting Diagnostic Success. Protist 2022; 173:125884. [DOI: 10.1016/j.protis.2022.125884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
4
|
Diversity of haemogregarine parasites infecting Brazilian snakes from the Midwest and Southeast regions with a description of two new species of Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae). Parasitol Int 2022; 89:102587. [PMID: 35452797 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2022.102587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Although Brazil is a hotspot for snake species, there is a lack of information on the biodiversity of haemoparasites infecting these hosts. Thus, the present study aimed to bring new insights about the diversity of species of Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae) infecting Brazilian snakes from the Midwest and Southeast regions. The snakes were captured from 2018 to 2020 from the states of Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Goiás, and São Paulo. Three to five blood smears were made and the remaining blood sample was stored for further molecular analysis. Moreover, histopathological slides of the organs were stained with haematoxylin-eosin. Regarding molecular diagnosis, PCR was performed targeting different regions of the 18S rDNA of apicomplexan parasites. From the 13 free-living snakes screened, ten (76.92%) were found infected with Hepatozoon spp. Based on morphological and morphometric tools, five different morphotypes of species of Hepatozoon gamonts were detected. Molecular data and phylogenetic analysis support the morphological data, identifying five species of Hepatozoon from snakes, of which three species belong to previously described species, Hepatozoon cevapii, Hepatozoon cuestensis, and Hepatozoon quagliattus, with gene similarity of 100% (based on the 18S rRNA genetic marker). The present study identifies and describes two new species of Hepatozoon, Hepatozoon annulatum sp. nov. infecting the snake Leptodeira annulata and Hepatozoon trigeminum sp. nov. infecting the snake Oxyrhopus trigeminus. Thus, based on morphological and molecular data this study brings new insights on haemogregarine diversity infecting Brazilian snakes from the Midwest and Southeast regions.
Collapse
|
5
|
Mofokeng LS, Smit NJ, Cook CA. Molecular screening of ticks of the genus Amblyomma (Acari: Ixodidae) infesting South African reptiles with comments on their potential to act as vectors for Hepatozoon fitzsimonsi (Dias, 1953) (Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae). Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 16:163-167. [PMID: 34584839 PMCID: PMC8455905 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
In South Africa, the role of reptilian ticks in the transmission of haemoparasites is lacking, in part, due to limited information on tick diversity and their associated haemoparasites. The aim of this research was to identify tick species parasitizing reptiles and to molecularly screen these ectoparasites for species of the blood apicomplexan genus Hepatozoon. Samples were collected from Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Cape Columbine region, Western Cape. Reptiles collected included 2 snakes, 2 monitor lizards of a single species respectively, as well as 17 tortoises of four species. Ticks collected from these were morphologically identified as Amblyomma latum (n = 2) and Amblyomma marmoreum (n = 98), this identification was molecularly confirmed using 16S rRNA and CO1 genes. Screening for Hepatozoon was done by amplifying the 18S rRNA gene. A species of Hepatozoon, Hepatozoon fitzsimonsi, was identified from A. marmoreum ticks, with an overall prevalence of 10%. This Hepatozoon species, has been described parasitizing tortoises from southern Africa, and has been reported from ticks infesting tortoises from Kenya, East Africa. Even though ticks have been suggested to be the likely vector of this Hepatozoon species, with this supported by the findings of Hepatozoon-like developmental stages in ticks collected off of infected tortoises, a recent systematic revision placed this species in a newly erected genus Bartazoon, a genus vectorised by biting insects. The present study thus provides further support for ticks acting as the potential vectors of H. fitzsimonsi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lehlohonolo S. Mofokeng
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North - West University, Potchefstroom, 2531, South Africa
| | - Nico J. Smit
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North - West University, Potchefstroom, 2531, South Africa
| | - Courtney A. Cook
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North - West University, Potchefstroom, 2531, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gutiérrez-Liberato GA, Lotta-Arévalo IA, Rodríguez-Almonacid CC, Vargas-Ramírez M, Matta NE. Molecular and morphological description of the first Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa: Hepatozoidae) species infecting a neotropical turtle, with an approach to its phylogenetic relationships. Parasitology 2021; 148:747-759. [PMID: 33536100 PMCID: PMC11010207 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021000184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Haemogregarines (Adeleorina) have a high prevalence in turtles. Nevertheless, there is only one Hepatozoon species described that infects Testudines so far; it is Hepatozoon fitzsimonsi which infects the African tortoise Kinixys belliana. Colombia harbours a great diversity of chelonians; however, most of them are threatened. It is important to identify and characterize chelonian haemoparasite infections to improve the clinical assessments, treatments and the conservation and reintroduction programs of these animals. To evaluate such infections for the Colombian wood turtle Rhinoclemmys melanosterna, we analysed blood from 70 individuals. By using the morphological characteristics of blood stages as well as molecular information (18S rRNA sequences), here we report a new Hepatozoon species that represents the first report of a hepatozoid species infecting a semi-aquatic continental turtle in the world. Although the isolated lineage clusters within the phylogenetic clades that have morphological species of parasites already determined, their low nodal support makes their position within each group inconclusive. It is important to identify new molecular markers to improve parasite species identification. In-depth research on blood parasites infecting turtles is essential for increasing knowledge that could assess this potential unknown threat, to inform the conservation of turtles and for increasing the state of knowledge on parasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Germán A. Gutiérrez-Liberato
- Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Salud Pública, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| | - Ingrid A. Lotta-Arévalo
- Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| | - Cristian C. Rodríguez-Almonacid
- Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| | - Mario Vargas-Ramírez
- Facultad de Ciencias, Estación de Biología Tropical Roberto Franco (EBTRF), Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 33 #33 −76, Villavicencio500005 Meta, Colombia
- Instituto de Genética, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| | - Nubia E. Matta
- Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zechmeisterová K, Javanbakht H, Kvičerová J, Široký P. Against growing synonymy: Identification pitfalls of Hepatozoon and Schellackia demonstrated on North Iranian reptiles. Eur J Protistol 2021; 79:125780. [PMID: 34020115 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2021.125780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The analyses of molecular data represent an effective tool for increasing the credibility of taxonomy and facilitate the description of species. Nevertheless, in haemoprotozoa, the growing amount of available sequential data is not matched by the still limited number of well-defined species. We identified four protistan haemoparasites in North Iranian reptiles: two Hepatozoon and two Schellackia species. Hepatozoon colubri and Hepatozoon ophisauri were morphologically identified in their type hosts, their partial 18S rDNA was analyzed, and thorough literature data were included in their redescription. The scarce data on the detected Schellackia spp. did not allow for their formal species description. Using an integrative approach, including morphological and geographical features, host specificity, molecular data, and the data published thus far, we face the following main difficulties hindering reliable diagnosis. (1) The lack of molecular data on well-described and named species. (2) The insufficiency of using only morphological and biological features, or only sequential data without morphology, to perform an absolutely reliable species diagnosis. (3) Typical morphological features are more substantial than metric means. (4) High risk of synonymy is present in taxonomy of blood Protista. (5) Artefacts caused by blood smear processing further complicate the correct morphological determination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristína Zechmeisterová
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého 1946/1, Brno 612 42, Czech Republic
| | - Hossein Javanbakht
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Jana Kvičerová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Branišovská 1760, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Široký
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého 1946/1, Brno 612 42, Czech Republic; CEITEC-Central European Institute of Technology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého 1946/1, 612 42 Brno, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Haemogregarines and Criteria for Identification. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11010170. [PMID: 33445814 PMCID: PMC7828249 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Taxonomic classification of haemogregarines belonging to Apicomplexa can become difficult when the information about the life cycle stages is not available. Using a self-reporting, we record different haemogregarine species infecting various animal categories and exploring the most systematic features for each life cycle stage. The keystone in the classification of any species of haemogregarines is related to the sporogonic cycle more than other stages of schizogony and gamogony. Molecular approaches are excellent tools that enabled the identification of apicomplexan parasites by clarifying their evolutionary relationships. Abstract Apicomplexa is a phylum that includes all parasitic protozoa sharing unique ultrastructural features. Haemogregarines are sophisticated apicomplexan blood parasites with an obligatory heteroxenous life cycle and haplohomophasic alternation of generations. Haemogregarines are common blood parasites of fish, amphibians, lizards, snakes, turtles, tortoises, crocodilians, birds, and mammals. Haemogregarine ultrastructure has been so far examined only for stages from the vertebrate host. PCR-based assays and the sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene are helpful methods to further characterize this parasite group. The proper classification for the haemogregarine complex is available with the criteria of generic and unique diagnosis of these parasites.
Collapse
|
9
|
Úngari LP, Netherlands EC, Quagliatto Santos AL, de Alcantara EP, Emmerich E, da Silva RJ, O’Dwyer LH. A new species, Dactylosoma piperis n. sp. (Apicomplexa, Dactylosomatidae), from the pepper frog Leptodactylus labyrinthicus (Anura, Leptodactylidae) from Mato Grosso State, Brazil. Parasite 2020; 27:73. [PMID: 33332263 PMCID: PMC7746082 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2020070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The Dactylosomatidae Jakowska and Negrelli, 1955 are one of four families belonging to adeleorinid coccidia and comprise the genera Babesiosoma Jakowska and Nigrelli, 1956 and Dactylosoma Labbé, 1894. These blood protozoa occur in peripheral blood of lower vertebrates, and are commonly reported parasitising amphibians. The present study describes Dactylosoma piperis n. sp. from the pepper frog Leptodactylus labyrinthicus (Spix, 1824) (Anura: Leptodactylidae), collected in 2018 at the municipality of Araguaiana, Mato Grosso State, Brazil, based on morphology of intra-erythrocytic trophozoite, primary and secondary merogonic stages and a molecular analysis (partial 18S rDNA). Dactylosoma piperis n. sp. forms a well-supported clade with other Dactylosomatidae. This is the first molecular characterization of a species of Dactylosoma from a Brazilian anuran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Letícia Pereira Úngari
-
Setor de Parasitologia, DBBVPZ, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito de Rubião Junior Botucatu CEP 18.618-970 São Paulo Brazil
| | - Edward Charles Netherlands
-
Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University Private Bag X6001 Potchefstroom 2520 South Africa
| | - André Luiz Quagliatto Santos
-
Laboratório de Ensino e Pesquisa em Animais Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia CEP 38.400-902 Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Edna Paulino de Alcantara
-
Setor de Parasitologia, DBBVPZ, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito de Rubião Junior Botucatu CEP 18.618-970 São Paulo Brazil
| | - Enzo Emmerich
-
Setor de Parasitologia, DBBVPZ, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito de Rubião Junior Botucatu CEP 18.618-970 São Paulo Brazil
| | - Reinaldo José da Silva
-
Setor de Parasitologia, DBBVPZ, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito de Rubião Junior Botucatu CEP 18.618-970 São Paulo Brazil
| | - Lucia Helena O’Dwyer
-
Setor de Parasitologia, DBBVPZ, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito de Rubião Junior Botucatu CEP 18.618-970 São Paulo Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Morelli S, Diakou A, Traversa D, Di Gennaro E, Simonato G, Colombo M, Dimzas D, Grillini M, Frangipane di Regalbono A, Beugnet F, Halos L, Paoletti B, Di Cesare A. First record of Hepatozoon spp. in domestic cats in Greece. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 12:101580. [PMID: 33113475 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Feline hepatozoonosis is an emerging disease of domestic and wild felids though there is limited knowledge of this infection, e.g. regarding geographical distribution and parasite species involved. The present study evaluated microscopically and molecularly the occurrence of Hepatozoon spp. in domestic cats from insular (Crete, Mykonos and Skopelos) and continental (prefectures of Attica and Thessaloniki) Greece. Out of 282 cats examined, 72 (25.5 %) scored positive by PCR for Hepatozoon spp. and of them, 9 (12.5 %) showed gamonts on the blood smear microscopic examination. Sequences obtained from 35 of the amplicons proved the presence of two haplotypes of Hepatozoon felis. One, herein called H1 (34/35 amplicons) resulted 100 % identical with H. felis from Italy and isolates from other continents, and ∼98 % similar with a H. felis isolate causing severe clinical signs in Austria. The haplotype H2, found in a cat in Skopelos, had ∼94 % identity with H1, with H. felis isolates from Italy, Israel, Spain, a ∼92 % identity with the isolate from Austria, and ∼94-98 % with isolates from South Africa. These are the first records of H. felis in cat populations from Greece and indicate that the infection may be present at high prevalences in different regions of the country. Furthermore, the results of the molecular and phylogenetic analysis support a recent hypothesis indicating the existence of a species-complex classification for H. felis. Further studies aiming at elucidating the genetic make-up of Hepatozoon populations and possible variations in terms of geographic distribution and clinical relevance are necessary. The importance of a continuous epizootiological monitoring is crucial for the establishment of preventative and control measures protecting the health of cats living in or travelling to enzootic areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Elisa Di Gennaro
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Simonato
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy
| | - Mariasole Colombo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Dimitris Dimzas
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marika Grillini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Barbara Paoletti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Picelli AM, da Silva MRL, Ramires AC, da Silva TRR, Pessoa FAC, Viana LA, Kaefer IL. Redescription of Hepatozoon ameivae (Carini and Rudolph, 1912) from the lizard Ameiva ameiva (Linnaeus, 1758). Parasitol Res 2020; 119:2659-2666. [PMID: 32529297 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06760-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Blood samples from 72 Ameiva ameiva lizards from Central Amazonian upland forests were collected, and thin smears of 40 (55.5%) animals were positive for gamonts of Hepatozoon with a mean level of intensity of infection of 14 parasites/2000 blood erythrocytes (0.73%). The gametocytes were found attached with host cells' nuclei, and their dimensions were 14.28 ± 1.05 μm in length and 4.50 ± 0.80 μm in width. Phylogenetic analyses of the 18S rRNA gene showed that the new sequences obtained from A. ameiva constitute a monophyletic sister clade to the Hepatozoon spp. from Brazilian snakes. Based on morphological features and new molecular data, we redescribe this hemogregarine as Hepatozoon ameivae. This study also provides the first molecular characterization of a Hepatozoon species from a Brazilian lizard.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Maria Picelli
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zoologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, 69067-005, Brazil.
| | - Maria Regina Lucas da Silva
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Laboratório de Estudos Morfofisiológicos e Parasitários, Universidade Federal do Amapá, Macapá, AP, 68903-419, Brazil
| | - Adriane Costa Ramires
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, 69067-005, Brazil
| | - Túllio Romão Ribeiro da Silva
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Doenças Transmissíveis na Amazônia, Instituto Leônidas e Maria Deane, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Manaus, AM, 69067-005, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Felipe Arley Costa Pessoa
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Doenças Transmissíveis na Amazônia, Instituto Leônidas e Maria Deane, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Manaus, AM, 69067-005, Brazil
| | - Lucio André Viana
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Laboratório de Estudos Morfofisiológicos e Parasitários, Universidade Federal do Amapá, Macapá, AP, 68903-419, Brazil
| | - Igor Luis Kaefer
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zoologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, 69067-005, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, 69067-005, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
van As M, Netherlands EC, Smit NJ. Molecular characterisation and morphological description of two new species of Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae) infecting leukocytes of African leopards Panthera pardus pardus (L.). Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:222. [PMID: 32357916 PMCID: PMC7195708 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-3933-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 07/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The African leopard Panthera pardus pardus (L.) is currently listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) red list of threatened species due to ongoing population declines. This implies that leopard-specific parasites are also vulnerable to extinction. Intracellular apicomplexan haemoparasites from the genus Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 have been widely reported from wild carnivores in Africa, including non-specific reports from leopards. This paper describes two new haemogregarines in captive and wild leopards from South Africa and provides a tabular summary of these species in relation to species of Hepatozoon reported from mammalian carnivores. METHODS Blood was collected from nine captive and eight wild leopards at various localities throughout South Africa. Thin blood smears were Giemsa-stained and screened for intraleukocytic haemoparasites. Gamont stages were micrographed and morphometrically compared with existing literature pertaining to infections in felid hosts. Haemogregarine specific primer set 4558F and 2733R was used to target the 18S rRNA gene for molecular analysis. Resulting sequences were compared to each other and with other available representative mammalian carnivore Hepatozoon sequences from GenBank. RESULTS Two species of Hepatozoon were found in captive and wild leopards. Of the 17 leopards screened, eight were infected with one or both morphologically and genetically distinct haemogregarines. When compared with other species of Hepatozoon reported from felids, the two species from this study were morphometrically and molecularly distinct. Species of Hepatozoon from this study were observed to exclusively parasitize a particular type of leukocyte, with Hepatozoon luiperdjie n. sp. infecting neutrophils and Hepatozoon ingwe n. sp. infecting lymphocytes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these haemogregarines are genetically distinct, with Hepatozoon luiperdjie n. sp. and Hepatozoon ingwe n. sp. falling in well supported separate clades. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first morphometric and molecular description of Hepatozoon in captive and wild African leopards in South Africa. This study highlights the value of using both morphometric and molecular characteristics when describing species of Hepatozoon from felid hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle van As
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, Qwaqwa campus, Private Bag X13, Phuthaditjhaba, 9866 South Africa
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520 South Africa
| | - Edward C. Netherlands
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520 South Africa
| | - Nico J. Smit
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520 South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Neofoleyellides boerewors n. gen. n. sp. (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) parasitising common toads and mosquito vectors: morphology, life history, experimental transmission and host-vector interaction in situ. Int J Parasitol 2020; 50:177-194. [PMID: 32087248 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2019.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Anuran filarial nematodes are restricted to two comparatively small subfamilies (Icosiellinae and Waltonellinae) of the filariae that currently comprise six genera and 41 recognised species. However, the life histories of only five anuran filarial nematodes, proposed as an ancestral group based on molecular phylogenetic studies, have been elucidated. Furthermore, data on the natural vectors (in situ) and parasite transmission is limited. In the current study we elucidate the life history of Neofoleyellides boerewors n. gen. n. sp. parasitising the guttural toad, Sclerophrys gutturalis and the mosquito vectors Uranotaenia (Pseudoficalbia) mashonaensis and Uranotaenia (Pseudoficalbia) montana. Additionally, we report on the unique host-seeking behaviour of the mosquito vectors which locate their toad hosts using their calls. The complex host-vector relationship and specialised host-seeking behaviour by these mosquitoes indicate biases towards host species and male toad infections.
Collapse
|
14
|
Diversity of Karyolysus and Schellackia from the Iberian lizard Lacerta schreiberi with sequence data from engorged ticks. Parasitology 2019; 146:1690-1698. [PMID: 31391126 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182019001112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Apicomplexan haemoparasites of the genera Schellackia Reichenow, 1919, and Karyolysus Labbé, 1894, seem to be common in lizards and widespread across the world. For decades, their identification has been based on morphological descriptions and life cycle patterns, with molecular characterizations, applied only recently. We used molecular characterization to confirm the identification of haemoparasites detected by microscopy in blood smears of Lacerta schreiberi Bedriaga, 1878, a lizard of the Iberian Peninsula. Since blood samples other than blood smears were not available from the studied lizards, 264 engorged ticks Ixodes ricinus (Linneaus, 1758) collected from them were used as an alternative non-invasive source of haemoparasite DNA for molecular genetic analyses. Of the 48 blood smears microscopically examined, 31 were positive for blood parasites (64.6% prevalence). We identified trophozoites and gamonts similar to Karyolysus lacazei (Labbé, 1894) (24/48; 50%) and Schellackia-like sporozoites (20/48; 41.7%). Mixed infections with both species occurred in 13 blood smears (27.1%). Sequence data were obtained for both parasites from engorged ticks. Phylogenetic analyses placed our unique haemogregarine sequence within the Karyolysus clade, nevertheless, within substantial polytomy. Thus, according to its morphology and effect on the host cell, we refer to this haemogregarine as Karyolysus cf. lacazei. Besides the Schellackia sequences being identical to a previously identified haplotype, we also obtained sequences of three new closely related haplotypes.
Collapse
|
15
|
A paradise for parasites? Seven new haemogregarine species infecting lizards from the Canary Islands. Parasitology 2019; 146:728-739. [PMID: 30871644 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182018002160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Oceanic islands are hotspots of biodiversity due to their high levels of endemism, with the Canary Islands being a notable example. A previous molecular study on the biogeography and host associations of haemogregarines (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) infecting lizards from this archipelago detected seven parasite haplogroups. These haplogroups exhibited high host-specificity and geographical structure, suggesting that they might correspond to distinct biological identities. In this study, along with sequencing a longer fragment of the 18S rRNA, we further explore the distinctiveness of these parasites by analysing their morphology, effects on host erythrocytes and parasitaemia levels. These lines of evidence together with their genetics, host associations, frequency of occurrence and geographical distribution support them as different biological entities. As such, we describe seven new species: Karyolysus canariensis sp. nov., Karyolysus galloti sp. nov., Karyolysus stehlini sp. nov., Karyolysus gomerensis sp. nov., Karyolysus atlanticus sp. nov., Karyolysus tinerfensis sp. nov. and Karyolysus makariogeckonis sp. nov. These new taxa are further examples of endemic diversity in the Canarian archipelago. They also contribute to clarify the taxonomy within the Apicomplexa, a phylum estimated to have one of the lowest percentages of described species.
Collapse
|
16
|
Hayes PM, Smit NJ. Molecular insights into the identification and phylogenetics of the cosmopolitan marine fish blood parasite, Haemogregarina bigemina (Adeleorina: Haemogregarinidae). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2019; 8:216-220. [PMID: 30891401 PMCID: PMC6404647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Haemogregarina bigemina is one of the most prevalent haemogregarines of marine fishes and has long been considered an enigmatic and cosmopolitan species. However, to determine whether H. bigemina truly represents a single global species, or whether it should be partitioned into several species or subspecies, and to confirm its taxonomic status among the Haemogregarina, molecular analysis is required. Here, we provide the first molecular characterisation of H. bigemina from one of its type hosts, Lipophrys pholis, in the UK using 18S rDNA sequences. Phylogenetic and p-distance comparisons of the newly generated H. bigemina sequences with those published from other haemogregarine taxa and related apicomplexans suggest that H. bigemina falls outside of the "Haemogregarina" clade as well as the Adeleorina altogether, forming a separate apicomplexan marine clade, and appears to be in fact more closely related to other non-haemogregarine Apicomplexa genera. Further work including sequences of H. bigemina and H. bigemina-like parasites observed from fishes in other localities is now needed to investigate this further.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Polly M Hayes
- School of Life Sciences, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish St., London, W1W 6UW, UK.,Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 2EE, UK
| | - Nico J Smit
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
James Harris D, Halajian A, Santos JL, Swanepoel LH, Taylor PJ, Xavier R. Diversity of haemoprotozoan parasites infecting the wildlife of South Africa. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2018; 65. [PMID: 30348909 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2018.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Tissue samples from wildlife from South Africa were opportunistically collected and screened for haemoprotozoan parasites using nonspecific PCR primers. Samples of 127 individuals were tested, comprising over 50 different species. Haemogregarines were the most commonly identified parasites, but sarcocystids and piroplasmids were also detected. Phylogenetic analyses estimated from the 18S rDNA marker highlighted the occurrence of several novel parasite forms and the detection of parasites in novel hosts. Phylogenetic relationships, which have been recently reviewed, appear to be much more complex than previously considered. Our study highlights the high diversity of parasites circulating in wildlife in this biodiverse region, and the need for further studies to resolve taxonomic issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D James Harris
- CIBIO/InBIO, Centro de Investigacao em Biodiversidade e Recursos Geneticos, Campus Agrario de Vairao, Vairao, Portugal.,Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciencias da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ali Halajian
- Department of Biodiversity, University of Limpopo, South Africa
| | - Joana L Santos
- CIBIO/InBIO, Centro de Investigacao em Biodiversidade e Recursos Geneticos, Campus Agrario de Vairao, Vairao, Portugal
| | - Lourens H Swanepoel
- Department of Zoology, School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
| | - Peter John Taylor
- NRF/DET SARCHI Chair on Biodiversity Value and Change, School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa.,Core Team Member, Centre for Invasion Biology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Republic of South Africa.,Honorary Research Associate, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, Republic of South Africa
| | - Raquel Xavier
- CIBIO/InBIO, Centro de Investigacao em Biodiversidade e Recursos Geneticos, Campus Agrario de Vairao, Vairao, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Cook CA, Netherlands EC, As JV, Jacobus Smit N. Two new species of Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa: Hepatozoidae) parasitising species of Philothamnus (Ophidia: Colubridae) from South Africa. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2018; 65. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2018.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
19
|
Kočíková B, Majláth I, Majláthová V. The Occurrence of Protozoan Parasites (Schellackia sp. Reichenow, 1919, Tritrichomonas sp. Kofoid, 1920, and Proteromonas sp. Kunstler, 1883) in Lacertid Lizards from Selected Localities in Europe. COMP PARASITOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1654/1525-2647-85.1.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Božena Kočíková
- Institute of Parasitology SAS, Hlinkova 3, Košice, Slovakia and
| | - Igor Majláth
- P. J. Šafárik University in Košice, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Moyzesova 11, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Viktória Majláthová
- Institute of Parasitology SAS, Hlinkova 3, Košice, Slovakia and
- P. J. Šafárik University in Košice, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Moyzesova 11, Košice, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Monophyly of the species of Hepatozoon (Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae) parasitizing (African) anurans, with the description of three new species from hyperoliid frogs in South Africa. Parasitology 2017; 145:1039-1050. [PMID: 29198245 PMCID: PMC6084435 DOI: 10.1017/s003118201700213x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Haemogregarines (Apicomplexa: Adeleiorina) are a diverse group of haemoparasites reported from almost all vertebrate classes. The most commonly recorded haemogregarines to parasitize anurans are species of Hepatozoon Miller, 1908. To date 16 Hepatozoon species have been described from anurans in Africa, with only a single species, Hepatozoon hyperolli (Hoare, 1932), infecting a member of the Hyperoliidae. Furthermore, only two Hepatozoon species are known from South African anurans, namely Hepatozoon theileri (Laveran, 1905) and Hepatozoon ixoxo Netherlands, Cook and Smit, 2014, from Amietia delalandii (syn. Amietia quecketti) and three Sclerophrys species, respectively. Blood samples were collected from a total of 225 individuals representing nine hyperoliid species from several localities throughout northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Twenty frogs from three species were found positive for haemogregarines, namely Afrixalus fornasinii (6/14), Hyperolius argus (2/39), and Hyperolius marmoratus (12/74). Based on morphological characteristics, morphometrics and molecular findings three new haemogregarine species, Hepatozoon involucrum Netherlands, Cook and Smit n. sp., Hepatozoon tenuis Netherlands, Cook and Smit n. sp. and Hepatozoon thori Netherlands, Cook and Smit n. sp., are described from hyperoliid hosts. Furthermore, molecular analyses show anuran Hepatozoon species to be a separate monophyletic group, with species isolated from African hosts forming a monophyletic clade within this cluster.
Collapse
|
21
|
Hepatozoon apri n. sp. (Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae) from the Japanese wild boar Sus scrofa leucomystax (Mammalia: Cetartiodactyla). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2017; 6:354-360. [PMID: 29556469 PMCID: PMC5853518 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Hepatozoon apri n. sp. is described from Japanese wild boars Sus scrofa leucomystax in Japan. The gamonts in the peripheral blood leukocytes were 11.6 ± 1.4 × 6.7 ± 1.3 μm in size. The meronts in the muscle tissues were 35.0–47.5 μm in length and 26.5–30 μm in width. A high rate (53.0%) of infection was found by nested PCR using muscle specimens from 181 wild boars captured in Tokushima, Japan. A phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rRNA gene sequences revealed that H. apri n. sp. detected in wild boars is closely related to Hepatozoon spp. isolated from carnivores. This is the first description of a species belonging to the genus Hepatozoon detected in ungulates. Hepatozoon apri n. sp. from Japanese wild boars was described. The newly described isolates were closely related to Hepatozoon from carnivores. H. apri n. sp. is widely distributed among wild boars (infection rate, 53%).
Collapse
|
22
|
van As J, Cook CA, Netherlands EC, Smit NJ. A new lizard malaria parasite Plasmodium intabazwe n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Haemospororida: Plasmodiidae) in the Afromontane Pseudocordylus melanotus (Sauria: Cordylidae) with a review of African saurian malaria parasites. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:437. [PMID: 27502045 PMCID: PMC4977684 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1702-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Saurian malaria parasites are diverse apicomplexan blood parasites including the family Plasmodiidae Mesnil, 1903, and have been studied since the early 1900s. Currently, at least 27 species of Plasmodium are recorded in African lizards, and to date only two species, Plasmodium zonuriae (Pienaar, 1962) and Plasmodium cordyli Telford, 1987, have been reported from the African endemic family Cordylidae. This paper presents a description of a new malaria parasite in a cordylid lizard and provides a phylogenetic hypothesis for saurian Plasmodium species from South Africa. Furthermore, it provides a tabular review of the Plasmodium species that to date have been formally described infecting species of African lizards. Methods Blood samples were collected from 77 specimens of Pseudocordylus melanotus (A. Smith, 1838) from Platberg reserve in the Eastern Free State, and two specimens of Cordylus vittifer (Reichenow, 1887) from the Roodewalshoek conservancy in Mpumalanga (South Africa). Blood smears were Giemsa-stained, screened for haematozoa, specifically saurian malaria parasites, parasite stages were photographed and measured. A small volume was also preserved for TEM studies. Plasmodium and Haemoproteus primer sets, with a nested-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol, were employed to target a fragment of the cytochrome-b (cyt-b) gene region. Resulting sequences of the saurian Plasmodium species’ isolates were compared with each other and to other known Plasmodium spp. sequences in the GenBank database. Results The presence of P. zonuriae in both specimens of the type lizard host C. vittifer was confirmed using morphological characteristics, which subsequently allowed for the species’ molecular characterisation. Of the 77 P. melanotus, 44 were parasitised by a Plasmodium species, which when compared morphologically to other African saurian Plasmodium spp. and molecularly to P. zonuriae, supported its description as a new species Plasmodium intabazwe n. sp. Conclusions This is the first morphological and molecular account of Plasmodium species within the African endemic family Cordylidae from South Africa. The study highlights the need for molecular analysis of other cordylid Plasmodium species within Africa. Future studies should also include elucidating of the life-cycles of these species, thus promoting the use of both morphological and molecular characteristics in species descriptions of saurian malaria parasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johann van As
- Department of Zoology & Entomology, University of the Free State, QwaQwa campus, Free State, South Africa
| | - Courtney A Cook
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Edward C Netherlands
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.,Laboratory of Aquatic Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, University of Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nico J Smit
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|