Caryospora is a genus of parasitic protozoa in the phylum Apicomplexa. The species in this genus infect birds and reptiles, with the majority of described species infecting snakes. It is the third largest genus in the family Eimeriidae.

Despite the number of species in this genus, it has not been much studied.

History

The genus Caryospora was created by Leger in 1904. The name was originally spelled Karyospora, but this was changed by Leger in 1911.

Taxonomy

Although the genus Caryospora is usually placed in the family Eimeriidae, it may actually be more closely related to the family Lankesterellidae.

There are at least 70 species in this genus.

Life cycle

The genus Caryospora is characterised by monosporocystic octozoitic oocysts. Species in this genus infect the digestive tract of reptiles and birds. Some species may also infect small rodents which are normally prey of the reptile or bird species.

Host records

Snakes

Birds

Other species