Malaria, Microscopic View of Cellular Parasites

Malaria is a disease caused by parasites that are carried by mosquitoes. Once in the bloodstream, the parasite inhabits the red blood cell (RBC). This picture shows purple-stained malaria parasites inside red blood cells.

Mosquito, Adult Feeding on the Skin

There are many different species of mosquito, some of which carry some of the worlds most common and most economically important infectious diseases. Malaria and yellow fever are two of the most important diseases they carry. Others include encephalitis (viral), dengue fever, and leishmaniasis. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)

Mosquito, Egg Raft

Mosquitoes of the Culex species lay their eggs in the form of egg rafts that float in still or stagnant water. The mosquito lays the eggs one at a time sticking them together in the shape of a raft. An egg raft can contain from 100 to 400 eggs. The eggs go through larval and pupal stages and feed on micro-organisms before developing into flying mosquitoes. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)

Mosquito, Larvae

This picture shows mosquito larvae, most of which will become blood-sucking, disease-carrying mosquitoes. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)

Mosquito, Pupa

These are mosquito pupa. This is another stage in the development of the mosquito. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)

Malaria, Microscopic View of Cellular Parasites

Malarial parasites are visible within the red blood cells. They are stained a dark bluish color.

Malaria, Photomicrograph of Cellular Parasites

Malaria is a disease caused by parasites. This picture shows dark orange-stained malaria parasites inside red blood cells (a) and outside the cells (b). Note the large cells that look like targets; it is unknown how these target cells are related to this disease.

Malaria

Malaria is caused by a parasite transmitted from one human to another via the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. The parasites migrate to the liver, mature and enter the bloodstream, where they rupture red blood cells. An infected pregnant woman can transmit malaria to her unborn child.

Digestive System Organs

The digestive system organs in the abdominal cavity include the liver, gallbladder, stomach, small intestine and large intestine.