Scanning electron microscopy study of Tritrichomonas augusta

• Published in: Parasitology research (1987) Vol. 94; no. 2; pp. 158 - 161
• Main Authors: BORGES, Fernanda P, WILTUSCHNIG, Renata C. M, TASCA, Tiana, DE CARLI, Geraldo A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin Springer 01.09.2004
• Subjects: Animals; Biological and medical sciences; Flagella - ultrastructure; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; General aspects; General aspects and techniques. Study of several systematic groups. Models; Invertebrates; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Tritrichomonas - classification; Tritrichomonas - growth & development; Tritrichomonas - ultrastructure; Parasite; Protozoa; Scanning electron microscopy; Tritrichomonas; Trichomonadida
• ISSN: 0932-0113; 1432-1955
• DOI: 10.1007/s00436-004-1189-2

Tritrichomonas augusta is a flagellated protozoan that parasitizes amphibians and reptiles. According to scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the cell shape of T. augusta varies from slender pyriform to ovoidal. Our data show the morphological features of the trophozoites: the emergence of the anterior flagella, the structure of the undulating membrane and the position and shape of the pelta, axostyle and posterior flagellum. In addition, herein we describe spherical forms which are probably pseudocysts. The description of the external structure of T. augusta, as demonstrated by SEM, contributes to the understanding of the biology of this parasite.