Schizogony

Schizogony is a unique form of asexual reproduction observed in certain protozoan parasites, particularly those belonging to the Apicomplexan group. This process involves multiple nuclear divisions before the cell itself divides, resulting in the production of many offspring from a single parent cell.

Overview

Schizogony is a complex process that involves several stages. The process begins when the parasitic cell invades a host cell. Once inside, the parasite begins to grow and its nucleus divides multiple times. This is followed by the division of the cytoplasm, resulting in the formation of many new cells, each with its own nucleus. These new cells, known as merozoites, then break out of the host cell and are free to invade other cells.

Stages of Schizogony

The process of schizogony can be divided into several stages:

1. Invasion: The parasitic cell invades a host cell.
2. Growth: Once inside the host cell, the parasite begins to grow.
3. Nuclear division: The nucleus of the parasite divides multiple times.
4. Cytoplasmic division: The cytoplasm of the parasite divides, resulting in the formation of many new cells.
5. Release: The new cells, or merozoites, break out of the host cell and are free to invade other cells.

Examples of Organisms that Undergo Schizogony

Schizogony is observed in several protozoan parasites, including:

• Plasmodium species: These are the parasites responsible for malaria. They undergo schizogony within the red blood cells of their human hosts.
• Toxoplasma gondii: This parasite, which causes toxoplasmosis, also undergoes schizogony.

See Also

• Asexual reproduction
• Apicomplexa
• Merozoite
• Malaria
• Toxoplasmosis

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