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Haemogregarina

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Haemogregarina
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Clade: Diaphoretickes
Clade: SAR
Clade: Alveolata
Phylum: Apicomplexa
Class: Conoidasida
Order: Eucoccidiorida
Suborder: Adeleorina
Family: Haemogregarinidae
Genus: Haemogregarina
Danilewsky, 1885

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

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It was described in 1885 by Danilewsky from the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis).[1]

General description

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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

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The following species are recognised:[2]

References

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  1. ^ A. MIHALCA, D. ACHELĂRIłEI, P. POPESCU (2002). Haemoparasites of the genus Haemogregarina in a population of European pond turtles (Emys orbicularis) from Drăgăşani, Vâlcea county, Romania, Scientia Parasitologic 2:22-27.
  2. ^ WoRMS (2011). "Haemogregarina Danilewsky, 1885". World Register of Marine Species. Retrieved June 28, 2011.