Host specificity of passerine Lankesterella (Apicomplexa: Coccidia)

Lankesterella parasites are blood coccidians that have recently gained attention as their records in common passerine species emerge. To date, their occurrence has been molecularly confirmed in several passerine genera, mainly among members of the families Paridae and Acrocephalidae. Despite their relatively high prevalence in some host populations, their life cycles remain unclear, mosquitoes or mites being the proposed vectors. The aim of this study was to reveal Lankesterella host specificity, focusing mainly on parasites of tit and warbler species (families Paridae and Acrocephalidae). We have determined the 18S rRNA gene sequences of Lankesterella from 35 individuals belonging to eight different host species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that passerine Lankesterella are host-specific, with specificity at the host genus or species level. Besides Lankesterella, Isospora sequences were obtained from avian blood as well, pointing out the need for barcoding. & COPY; 2023 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Lankesterella parasites are prevalent in passerine species, displaying host specificity at the genus or species level. Isospora sequences were also identified, highlighting the importance of barcoding.