Trichozoa

Trichozoa

Trichomonas vaginalis stained with Giemsa.

Trichozoa is a subphylum of excavates, a diverse group of unicellular eukaryotic organisms. Members of Trichozoa are characterized by their flagella and are primarily known for their role as parasites in various hosts, including humans.

Characteristics

Trichozoa are distinguished by their unique cellular structures, which include multiple flagella used for locomotion. These organisms are typically anaerobic and possess specialized organelles called hydrogenosomes, which are involved in energy production under low-oxygen conditions. The cell structure of Trichozoa is adapted to their parasitic lifestyle, allowing them to thrive in the host environment.

Classification

Trichozoa belongs to the larger group of Excavata, which is one of the major lineages of eukaryotes. Within Trichozoa, there are several notable genera, including Trichomonas, Pentatrichomonas, and Dientamoeba. These genera include species that are significant in medical and veterinary contexts due to their pathogenic nature.

Notable Species

One of the most well-known species within Trichozoa is Trichomonas vaginalis, a protozoan parasite that causes trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection in humans. This organism is of particular interest due to its impact on human health and its role in reproductive tract infections.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Trichozoa typically involves a trophozoite stage, which is the active, feeding, and motile form of the organism. In the case of Trichomonas vaginalis, the trophozoites are transmitted through sexual contact and colonize the urogenital tract, where they reproduce by binary fission.

Pathogenicity

Trichozoa species such as Trichomonas vaginalis are known for their pathogenic effects in humans. Infection can lead to symptoms such as itching, burning, and discharge, although some individuals may remain asymptomatic. The presence of these parasites can also increase the risk of acquiring other sexually transmitted infections.

Related Pages

• Trichomoniasis
• Excavata
• Protozoa