Endogenous development of Eimeria intestinalis in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

The endogenous life cycle of a pure strain of Eimeria intestinalis was studied by light and electron microscopy in coccidia-free rabbits. Four schizont generations could be observed: the first one, not previously described, was seen between 36 and 144 hr postinoculation (PI), the second one between 64 and 168 hr PI, the third one between 96 and 192 hr PI, and the fourth one between 168 and 240 hr PI. Gamogony apparently started as early as 144 hr PI. Thus, it was possible for oocysts to develop from third generation merozoites, later oocysts developing after the fourth schizont generation. Electron microscopic observation suggested that oocysts were derived mainly from merozoites of the fourth schizont generation. During the first stage of the life cycle, sporozoites were seen in intraepithelial lymphocytes. All asexual generations, except the fourth, were characterized by 2 schizont types: the first, regarded as female, contained mononuclear merozoites and the second, regarded as male, contained polynuclear merozoites.