Characterization of Plasmodium relictum, a cosmopolitan agent of avian malaria.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Microscopic research has shown that Plasmodium relictum is the most common agent of avian malaria. Recent molecular studies confirmed this conclusion and identified several mtDNA lineages, suggesting the existence of significant intra-species genetic variation or cryptic speciation. Most identified lineages have a broad range of hosts and geographical distribution. Here, a rare new lineage of P. relictum was reported and information about biological characters of different lineages of this pathogen was reviewed, suggesting issues for future research.

Methods

The new lineage pPHCOL01 was detected in Common chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita, and the parasite was passaged in domestic canaries Serinus canaria. Organs of infected birds were examined using histology and

SUBMITTER: Valkiunas G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5930738 | biostudies-literature | 2018 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature