What is the Apicomplexa?
Q: What is the Apicomplexa?
A: The Apicomplexa is a large group of protists (protozoa) which are parasitic.
Q: What adaptations do they have?
A: They have developed some extraordinary adaptations which fit them in their parasitic life, such as a unique organelle called an apicoplast and an apical complex structure.
Q: Do they have structures such as flagella or pseudopods?
A: No, they do not have structures such as flagella or pseudopods except in certain gamete stages. Body movement is by flexing or gliding.
Q: Was the group once known by another name?
A: Yes, the group was once called the Sporozoa, but this name is now discouraged.
Q: How do they reproduce?
A: Apicomplexans have complex life cycles, and both asexual and sexual reproduction occur. Cell nuclei are haploid.
Q: What organisms belong to this group?
A: This diverse group includes organisms such as coccidia, gregarines, piroplasms, haemogregarines, and malarias.
Q: What diseases can be caused by apicomplexan organisms?
A: Diseases caused by apicomplexan organisms include malaria and other illnesses related to parasites entering the body's cells.
