title: An ultrastructural study of the development of Babesia occultans in the salivary glands of adult Hyalomma marginatum rufipes.
abstract: The development of Babesia occultans in the salivary glands of adult Hyalomma marginatum rufipes was studied with the electron microscope. Sporogony involved a process of multiple fission in which sporozoites formed from the periphery of a polymorphous sporont. Different stages of development were found concurrently in individual acini as well as within individual acinar cells. Mature sporozoites were found on Day 3 post-tick attachment and measures 3.0-3.5 X 1.5 micron. The apical complex consisted of a polar ring and 4-6 rhoptries. Micronemes were concentrated anteriorly and 1 or 2 spherical bodies were identified in each sporozoite. The general pattern of development was similar to that described in several other Babesia spp. but distinct morphologic differences were noted.
authors.affiliation: Veterinary Research Institute, Onderstepoort.
authors.forename: E F
authors.initials: EF
authors.lastname: Blouin
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: van Rensburg
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001403:Babesia / Q000254:growth & development / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D007303:Insect Vectors; D012469:Salivary Glands / Q000469:parasitology; D013987:Ticks / Q000469:parasitology*