Protozoa-Microsporidia (Water)

Microsporidia Spores are oval in shape but are difficult to differentiate from bacteria because they are so small. Identification of spores in feces is actually possible with a modified trichrome stain that stain spores in red. What is Microsporidia? Microsporidia are protozoal parasites of animals and insects responsible for common diseases of crustaceans and fish, and have been found in most other animal groups, including humans. Microsporidia are obligate, intracellular, spore-forming protozoa known to infect many animals. They are very ancient. Intestinal infection with Enterocytozoon bieneusi is increasingly recognized in patients with AIDS and chronic diarrhea where the prevalence is about 23-33%.