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A total of 200 domestic rabbits were collected from Qena Governorate, Egypt, from October 2018 to October 2020. Their fecal samples were tested for the presence of Eimeria species oocysts using the standard flotation technique, which revealed oocysts in 100 rabbits (50%). The following 11 species of Eimeria were examined morphologically and morphometrically from different parts of the rabbits’ intestine (duodenum, ileum, cecum, colon and rectum): Eimeria coecicola, E. exigua, E. flavescens, E. irresidua, E. magna, E. media, E. perforans, E. intestinalis, E. stiedae, E. vejdovskyi, and E. piriformis. Moreover, the endogenous stages of E. intestinalis were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. Macrogametogenesis and microgametogenesis were clearly observed. The development of microgamonts, macrogametes, and oocysts with their fine structural characteristics was detected. Additionally, a detailed key for each species is provided according to the common morphological characters such as the presence or absence of oocyst and sporocyst residua as well as conspicuous or inconspicuous micropyle. E. stiedae, E. irresidua, and E. vejdovskyi are reported for the first time in Qena Governorate, Upper Egypt. |
