''Plasmodium bubalis'' is a parasite of the genus '' Plasmodium'' (subgenus '' Vinckeia'') which causes malaria in buffalo in India.

Description

Like other ''Plasmodium'' species, ''P. bubalis'' infects the red blood cells of its mammalian host. In the red blood cells, the parasite has several stages. The trophozoite stages begin as amoeboid in shape and measuring 1.2 to 1.8 μm. Larger trophozoites appear spherical and can measure up to 5.0 μm.

Gametocytes A gametocyte is a eukaryotic germ cell that divides by mitosis into other gametocytes or by meiosis into gametids during gametogenesis. Male gametocytes are called ''spermatocytes'', and female gametocytes are called ''oocytes''. Development ...

occupy the entire red blood cell, and measure 6 to 8 μm in diameter.

Role in disease

''P. bubalis'' causes malaria in buffalo. Infected buffalo show fever and decreased appetite, as well as anemia, pale mucous membranes, and reduced rumen motility.

History

The parasite was first described by Sheather in 1919 in buffalo ('' Bubalus bubalis'') in India.Sheather A (1919) J. Confr. Path. Ther. 32, 223 Since then there have been a small number of case reports also describing ''P. bubalis'' infections of buffalo.

References

bubalis The hartebeest (; ''Alcelaphus buselaphus''), also known as kongoni or kaama, is an African antelope. It is the only member of the genus ''Alcelaphus''. Eight subspecies have been described, including two sometimes considered to be independe ...

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