Abstract

Ultrastructural aspects of interlamellar Henneguya exilis infections in channel catfish are reported. The plasmodium wall of this form differs from that of other species in that it is composed of two outer unit membranes which give rise to a zone of numerous pinocytic canals. Single-membraned canals appeared to be a stable feature of the wall while double-membraned canals are interpreted as those actively carrying out pinocytosis. Evidence suggests that host cellular cytoplasm as well as interstitial material is taken in by plasmodia. Plasmodium wall integrity, aggregation of parasite ectoplasmic components, numbers of pinocytic canals, and number of mitochondria proximal to the wall vary among different plasmodium profiles and may be related to plasmodium maturity. The parasite causes extensive hyperplasia of basal cells, which in turn replaces most other cell types found in noninfected gill filaments. Cytoarchitectural differences between basal cells of noninfected filaments and basal cells adjacent to plasmodia include significantly shorter microfilament bundles in the latter.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.