Fine structure of the development of Sarcocystis singaporensis in Python reticulatus from macrogamont to sporulated oocyst stage

Three, 4-month old reticulated pythons (Python reticulatus) hatched from eg gs laid by a newly caught female from Singapore Island, were fed on muscles of Sarcocystis singoporensis-infected Rattus rattus caught in Singapore. S nakes were sacrificed five, six and eight days later. The infected tissues were studied by transmission electron microscope. The present communication summarizes findings on macrogamont and oocyst sieges. In the premature sta ges, rough endoplasmic reticulum consolidate into a large rectangular array ; the electron-dense wall-forming-like bodies reveal a laminar structure. M acrogamont parasitophorous vacuoles became filled with granular matrix and electron-dense strands, which later on consolidate into a coot around the f ertilized zygote. The oocyst wall is constructed from several formed membra nes combined with deposited substance. All development to the sporulated oo cyst stage occurs in the mucosal epithelium.