Sarcocystis: Host-parasite Relations
Sarcocystis is a genus of parasitic protozoa. Species in this genus infect reptiles, birds and mammals. The name is derived from Greek: sarkos = flesh and kystis = bladder.
There are about 130 recognised species in this genus. Revision of the taxonomy of this genus is ongoing and it is possible that all the currently recognised species may in fact be a single species or much smaller number of species that can infect multiple hosts.
The parasite's life cycle typically involves a predator and a prey animal. A single species may infect multiple prey or predator animals. In at least 56 species definitive and intermediate hosts are known. Many species are named after their recognised hosts
Further material on this genus can be found on the Sarcocystis page.
Read more about Sarcocystis: Host-parasite Relations: Bird Species Infected, Species Infecting Mammals, Species Infecting Birds, Species Infecting Reptiles, Species Infected But Parasite Not Yet Identified, Hosts Infected Where Parasite Species Is Known
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