Diplomonadida

Diplomonadida is a group of flagellate protozoa that belong to the superfamily Hexamitinae. They are characterized by having two nuclei and multiple flagella. They are often found in the intestines of animals, and some species are parasitic, causing diseases such as giardiasis in humans.

Characteristics

Diplomonadida are small, usually between 10 and 20 micrometers in length. They have two identical nuclei, each with four associated flagella, and a fifth flagellum is attached to a ventral feeding groove. They move by a distinctive rolling motion, and most species are anaerobic.

Taxonomy

The group was first defined by Wenyon in 1926, and has since been divided into several genera, including Giardia, Hexamita, Spironucleus, Trepomonas, and Enteromonas. However, the relationships between these are uncertain, and the monophyly of the group has been questioned.

Ecology and Pathology

Diplomonadida are found in a wide range of habitats, but are most common in anaerobic environments. Some species are free-living, but many are parasites or commensals in the intestines of animals. The best-known species is Giardia lamblia, which causes the disease giardiasis in humans.

References

Diplomonadida Resources
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