Anaplasma is a genus of rickettsiales bacteria.
Anaplasmas reside in host red blood cells and lead to the disease anaplasmosis. The disease most commonly occurs in tropical areas of the world.
Anaplasmas require intermediate tick hosts for maturation, and flies may act as mechanical vectors.
The major consequence of infection is the development of haemolytic anaemia due to the damage done to red blood cells.
Species of veterinary interest include:
- Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma centrale in cattle
- Anaplasma mesaeterum and Anaplasma ovis in sheep and goats