The Fine Structure of the Erythrocytic forms of Plasmodium Gallinaceum as Revealed by Electron Microscopy *

Abstract

Electron microscopic studies of ultrathin sections of the erythrocytic forms of Plasmodium gallinaceum revealed that this intracellular parasite feeds on its host cell by means of phagotrophy. The body of P. gallinaceum is covered by a thin cytoplasmic membrane which in certain areas appeared as a double membrane. The nucleus of the parasite is enclosed in 2 distinct membranes and its content varies in density from electron-lucid to more dense material which appeared to be agglomerates of small dense granules. Endoplasmic reticulum, food vacuoles, vacuoles surrounded by double or single membranes, and pigment (hemozoin) were visible in the cytoplasm of the parasite. P. cynomolgi were not stained by fluorescein-labeled antibody which stained P. gallinaceum intensely.