Distribution, redescription, and molecular identification of Isospora striata McQuistion et al. 1997 (Eimeriidae), from woodcreepers (Dendrocolaptidae) in South America.

Abstract

Woodcreepers are passerines of the family Dendrocolaptidae, which have a high forest dependency. The current work aimed to redescribe Isospora striata McQuistion et al. 1997, from two new hosts in protected areas in Brazil, revealing new localities of parasitism, in addition to providing preliminary genotypic identifications via sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene from both host species. Isospora striata has oocysts that are subspheroidal to ovoidal, 19.4 × 16.8 μm with smooth wall. Oocyst residuum is absent, but micropyle and polar granules are present. Sporocysts are ovoidal, 13.6 × 8.3 μm, with both Stieda and sub-Stieda bodies. Sporocyst residuum is present and sporozoites with refractile body, nucleus, and striations. The morphological study and the 100% similarity in sequencing of the COI gene between samples of different dendrocolaptid species confirmed the identification of a single species, supporting the identification of I. striata in the Brazilian Atlantic forest and consequently the wide distribution of this coccidian species in the Neotropical Region.