Question

Describe the different steps in the sexual mode of reproduction in the life cycle of a malarial parasite from the time of its initiation till where it is completed and ready to start a fresh cycle.}

Hint:

Remember: The mosquito is the definitive host for Plasmodium because sexual reproduction occurs in its body.

Answer 1

The steps in the sexual mode of reproduction of the malarial parasite are: Gamete Formation: Gametocytes are formed in the human host and are ingested by a female \textit{Anopheles} mosquito during a blood meal. Fertilization: Male and female gametocytes fuse in the mosquito’s gut to form a zygote. Ookinete Formation: The zygote develops into a motile ookinete, which penetrates the mosquito’s gut wall. Oocyst Development: The ookinete forms an oocyst on the mosquito's gut wall. Sporozoite Formation: The oocyst undergoes multiple divisions to produce sporozoites, which migrate to the mosquito’s salivary glands. Completion: The sporozoites are injected into a new human host when the mosquito feeds, completing the cycle. - The sexual reproduction of Plasmodium occurs in the mosquito (definitive host), while asexual reproduction occurs in the human (intermediate host). - The sporozoites introduced into the human bloodstream travel to the liver, initiating the next cycle of asexual reproduction.