Fecal samples from 10 pygmy chameleons, Rampholeon temporalis (Matschie, 1892), an endemic species of the Usambara Mountains in northeastern Tanzania, were examined for coccidian parasites. Two (20%) chameleons were found to be passing oocysts of Eimeria Schneider. Comparison with other species of Eimeria indicates that the coccidian found represents a new species. Sporulated oocysts of Eimeria hajeki n. sp. are oval, 30.2 (29–31) by 23.5 (22–25) μm, with a shape index (length/width) of 1.3 (1.2–1.4) and a 2-μm-thick rough, bilayered wall. Micropyle and polar granule are absent. Sporocysts are oval to rhomboidal, 10.8 (9–11.5) by 8.8 (7.5–10) μm, with a shape index of 1.2 (1.15–1.3) and a wall composed of 2 valves joined by a suture.
American Society of Parasitologists
2001
You do not currently have access to this content.