Abstract:
The development of Babesia occultans in the salivary glands of adult Hyalomma marginatum rufipes was studied with the electron microscope. Sporogony involved a process of multiple fission in which sporozoites formed from the periphery of a polymorphous sporont. Different stages of development were found concurrently in individual acini as well as within individual acinar cells. Mature sporozoites were found on Day 3 post-tick attachment and measures 3,0-3,5 x 1,5 µm. The apical complex consisted of a polar ring and 4-6 rhoptries. Micronemes were concentrated anteriorly and 1 or 2 spherical bodies were identlfied in each sporozoite. The general pattern of development was similar to that described in several other Babesia spp. but distinct morphologic differences were noted.
