Aikinetocystidae

Aikinetocystidae
Scientific classification
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Aikinetocystidae
Genera

Aikinetocystis
Nellocystis

The Aikinetocystidae are a family of parasitic alveolates in the phylum Apicomplexa. The species in this family infect oligochaetes.

Taxonomy

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This family was created in 1930 by Bhatia.[1]

Two genera are recognised in this family - Aikinetocystis and Nellocystis.

Description

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The species in this family infect the coelom of oligochaetes. They are spread by the oral-faecal route. The trophozoite is aseptate. The gamont is sac-like and extends at one end into two branches which divide dichotomously, forming eight to 16 secondary branches bearing groups of suckers. The oocysts are biconical (fusiform).

References

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  1. ^ Bhatia BL (1930) Synopsis of the genera and classification of haplocyte gregarines. Parasitol 22: 156-167