Document Type

Thesis

Date of Degree Completion

Summer 1971

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Committee Chair

Glen W. Clark

Second Committee Member

Janet M. Lowe

Third Committee Member

Sheldon R. Johnson

Abstract

A previously described eimerian, Eimeria sceloporis, from the northwestern fence lizard, Sceloporus occidentalis occidentalis, was observed for oocyst production, incidence and intensity of infection in both juvenile and adult lizards. In order to test the species specificity of Eimeria ahtanumensis, an attempted transmission was made to Sceloporus poinsetti, Sceloporus jarrovi, Sceloporus undulatus and Sceloporus occidentalis. During the winter of 1970-1971 fecal samples were collected from Sceloporus poinsetti to determine possible coccidial infections. The lizards were collected in September of 1970 in Hidulgo County, New Mexico and the ensuing investigation showed that nine of the thirteen adults were passing an intestinal form of Eimeria. Because of the differences between the coccidian described in the present study and other known species, it is proposed that the new species be named Eimeria poinsettis.

Language

English

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