Comparative Analysis of the Exo-Erythrocytic Development of Five Lineages of Haemoproteus majoris, a Common Haemosporidian Parasite of European Passeriform Birds

Haemoproteus parasites (Apicomplexa, Haemosporida) are widespread pathogens of birds, with a rich genetic (about 1900 lineages) and morphospecies (178 species) diversity. Nonetheless, their life cycles poorly understood. The exo-erythrocytic stages three majoris (widespread generalist parasite) lineages have been previously reported, each in different bird species. We aimed to further study compare the development five H. lineages—hCCF5, hCWT4, hPARUS1, hPHSIB1, hWW2—in wider selection natural avian hosts. A total 42 individuals belonging 14 species were sampled. Morphospecies parasitemia determined by microscopy blood films, DNA-barcoding 478 bp section cytochrome b gene, histology chromogenic situ hybridization. lineage hCWT4 was morphologically characterized as for first time. All infections exclusively featured megalomeronts. found all examined similar, particularly hCCF5, hPHSIB1. Megalomeronts hWW2 more similar other than former lineages. kidneys gizzard most often affected, followed lungs intestines; site showed variation depending on lineage.