Scanning and transmission electron microscopy of Eimeria maxima microgametogenesis

The structure and development of microgametocytes pf Eimeria maxima from chicks killed during the 6th day of infection were examined using transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Initially, nucleoli disappear and the surface of the microgametocyte invaginates. This is followed by a condensation of the chromatin which then lies at the periphery of the nuclei. Concurrent with this, the flagella are formed and they project into the parasitophorous vacuole and internal invaginations. Eventually, the nuclei become more dense and are seen to protrude from the periphery of the gametocyte. The surface view of mature microgametocytes consists of a large number of closely packed flagella.