Question

Which of the following is the infective stage of the malarial parasite (Plasmodium)?

• A. Gametocyte
• B. Merozoite
• C. Sporozoite
• D. Trophozoite

Answer 1

The correct option is C Sporozoite

Gametocytes: Precursors of the sexual forms of the malaria parasite, which differentiate into either male or female gametes within the stomach of the mosquito.

Merozoite: The form of the malaria parasite that invades red blood cells.

Sporozoite: The infectious spores actively moving form of the malaria parasite, which is injected into people by mosquitoes.

Trophozoite: The merozoites infect red blood cells, where they develop into ring forms, trophozoites and schizonts that in turn produce further merozoites.