Experimental differentiation of Leishmania

Abstract

It is generally accepted that the various species of Leishmania of men and dogs are morphologically indistinguishable. Therefore it has been argued that, according to the present rules of taxonomy, they should all be included in one species, L. donovani (Laveran & Mesnil, 1903), Ross, 1903. A review of the literature indicates, however, that this view is not generally acceptable, while strict adherence to the morphological rule would require the inclusion of the Leishmania of lizards (L. hemidactyli, L. agamae, etc.) in the same species as those of men and dogs.