Uterine coccidiosis of the impala caused by Eimeria neitzi spec. nov.

Abstract

Four cases of uterine coccidiosis showing readily-detectable macroscopic lesions were collected over a period of two years during which 451 female impalas [Aepyceros melampus (Lichtenstein, 1812)] were examined post mortem in the Kruger National Park. This report includes descriptions and illustrations of macroscopic and microscopic lesions and various developmental stages of sexual reproduction of the parasite. Because of certain morphological features of the oocysts, the causative organism was determined by the authors to be a new Eimeria for which they propose the name Eimeria neitzi. This coccidium parasitizes mainly the distal portions of the uterine glands and the adjacent surface epithelium. Another distinctive feature of Eimeria neitzi is that sporogony occurs while the oocysts are still within host cells. On the basis of present knowledge, uterine coccidiosis is of very low incidence among impalas in the Kruger National Park and probably of little herd significance under the prevailing veld conditions. Its effect on reproduction was not determined.