The Sea Cucumber-Infecting Parasite Apostichocystis gudetama gen. nov. sp. nov. Expands Marine-Host-Specific Clade of Apicomplexans

Abstract

Unknown ellipsoid bodies, later classified as apicomplexan cysts, are prevalent in the ovaries of Japanese pearl oysters (Pinctada fucata). Here we characterize these apicomplexan cysts using electron microscopy, 18S rRNA gene sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis. Our results reveal a novel apicomplexan lineage associated with bivalve reproductive tissues, expanding our knowledge of apicomplexan diversity in marine invertebrates.

Anthony Bonacolta

PhD Student · Now Postdoctoral Fellow at The University of British Columbia

My PhD research focused on understanding the roles of micro-eukaryotes and bacteria in marine organisms, including the coral holobiont during bleaching from a single-cell perspective.

Joana Krause-Massaguer

PhD Student

My research consists on using genetic and molecular biology tools coupled with imaging to study the protists symbionts of Mediterranean corals.

Javier del Campo

Group Leader

My research aims at understanding the global diversity and distribution of eukaryotic and prokaryotic microbes employing curated phylogenetic frameworks focusing on novel environmental taxa.