Redescription and new host record of Eimeria serbica from the Caucasian tree squirrel, Sciurus anomalus, from Turkey.

Abstract

Fecal samples from 20 Caucasian tree squirrels, Sciurus anomalus (Gmelin, 1778) Güldenstaedt, 1785, were collected in Turkey during February and March, 2004, and all 20 were infected with a single species of coccidia, Eimeria serbica. Sporulated oocysts are ellipsoidal, 27.5 x 17.5 (21-34 x 15-20) with a length:width ratio (L/W) of 1.6 (1.4-1.8); they lack a micropyle and oocyst residuum, but 0-2 polar granules may be present. Sporocysts are ellipsoidal, 11.9 x 6.9 (10.5-14 x 6-7.5) with a L/W of 1.7 (1.5-2.1); a Stieda body and sporocyst residuum are present.