Vermamoeba vermiformis—Global Trend and Future Perspective

Abstract

Free living amoebae (FLAs) are considered widespread in nature and therefore called ubiquitous, its spectrum of habitation extends from aquatic reservoir to terrestrial places. Of the organisms considered as free living amoebae, members of the genera Acanthamoeba, NaegIeria, Hartmanella, and Balamuthia are known to infect humans (World Health Organization) and are considered medically important due to the fatal disease observed in their hosts. These organisms are considered free living in nature but are considered parasitic once they enter the hosts. Among the FLAs, Vermamoeba sp. is so far considered as one of the major water dwelling FLAs together with Acanthamoeba sp. This amoeboid protozoa is classified under Lobosea and was initially given the name Hartmanella vermiformis. Although ubiquitous, Vermamoeba vermiformis is still considered as one of the less studied FLA among its group. This protist can be isolated from soil, water, and to some extent, animal reservoirs. This article provides an in depth look in the previous, present, and potential research direction in the future for Vermamoeba vermiformi.