Eugregarinorida (entomopathogens)

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trophozoites of Gregarina, pairing to form a gamont
Source: Wikimedia Commons

Eugregarinorida (entomopathogens) - (eugregarines)

The order of Eugregarinorida is placed under the Apicomplexa, single-celled, spore-forming organisms which have been previously classified as "Sporozoa" (protozoans). More than 1000 species of eugregarines have been described. They are parasitic in various groups of invertebrates, including insects.

The eugregarines live and grow as trophozoites which pair and form gamonts. The gamonts develop into oocysts which are excreted from the host. Inside a new host an oocyst will release sporozoites which develop again into trophozoites. Eugregarines of the genus Gregarina live inside the gut of certain insect species and some are regarded as weakly pathogenic. They typically have large (up to 200-300 µm) and septate trophozoites. The apical part of the trophozoite attaches itself to the gut wall while it absorbes nutrients and grows.


The following genera are currently entered in the system: