Atoxoplasma spp. in a hybrid passerine (Serinus canarius X Carduelis cannabina)

Abstract

A hybrid passerine (Serinus canarius x Carduelis cannabina) in poor bodily condition was presented for consultation but died during clinical examination. Examination of the faeces revealed the presence of oocysts that were assigned to those of Isospora serini species. The sexual stages of the parasite were found in the intestinal tract. Also, merozoites of an Atoxoplasma (Syn. Lankesterella)-like parasite were detected in mononuclear-cells in cardiac blood. These findings indicate a coccidiosis pattern consistent with atoxoplasmosis.