Fine structure of erythrocytic stages of a Plasmodium tropiduri-like malaria parasite found in the lizard Kentropyx calcarata (Teiidae) from North Brazil

Abstract

The fine structure is described of the merogonic stages and gametocytes of a Plasmodium tropiduri Aragão et Neiva, 1909-like parasite infecting the teiid lizard Kentropyx calcarata Spix from North Brazil. The trophozoites are bordered by two membranes, and with growth a pellicle is formed by the addition of an inner, thick double layer and fragmented membrane. The same type of inner membrane occurs in the pellicle of the merozoites differentiating from the meronts. Merozoites contained a large electron-dense body, sometimes seen to be embraced by a tubular mitochondrion with a dense matrix. Micro- and macrogametocytes are bounded by a double membrane, closely apposed by the detached wall of the parasitophorous vacuole. Both contain osmiophilic bodies. The microgametocyte contains an electron-dense aggregate, and the macrogametocyte has a large mitochondrion and a complex of tubuli and cisternae. These features are compared with those described in other malarial parasites.