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Haemogregarina

Haemogregarina is a genus of haemoprotozoans, parasitic mainly on cold-blooded vertebrates. They are unicellular organisms which are parasitic in the red blood cells. Haemogregarina infects lower vertebrates (fish and reptiles) as intermediate hosts and leeches as definitive hosts.

History

It was described in 1885 by Danilewsky from the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis).

General description

These parasites are generally considered non-pathogenic, and have been described in the red blood cells of desert tortoises. They are elongate to fusiform oval organisms found in the red blood cells. Although the size varies, they are larger than the cell's nucleus. The organism stains a basophilic colour and has a surrounding clear zone.

Species

The following species are recognised:

References