Morphological and molecular characterization of Eimeria magna infecting local rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Alkarg City, Saudi Arabia

Coccidiosis is one of the most prevalent diseases found in local rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), which is caused by the Eimeria. The study aimed to more reliably identify Eimeria species (Eimeria magna) infecting Local Rabbits in Alkarg City, Saudi Arabia, based the method on the molecular properties and morphological and molecular biological techniques. Sub‐spheroidal oocysts measuring 21–27 × 12–16 (24 × 14.4) μm (20 n) and with a length/width (L/W) ratio of 0.9–1.1 (1.0) were identified by microscopic analysis of a fecal sample. Oocysts feature a bi‐layered wall that is 1.0–1.2 (1.1) μm thick. About two‐thirds of the wall's thickness is made up of a smooth outer layer. A polar granule is present, but neither a micropyle nor an oocyst residuum is present. The ovoidal sporozoites measure 15–18 × 8–11 (16.5 × 9.5) μm, have an L/W ratio of 1.6–1.8 (1.7), and take up around 21% of the oocyst's total surface. The mean size of the sub‐Stieda body is 1.4 × 2.3 μm, while the average size of the Stieda body is 0.9 × 1.8 μm. The para‐Stieda body is lacking. Sporocyst residuum appears membrane‐bound and has an uneven form made up of several granules. With two refractile bodies below the striations and pronounced striations at the more pointed end, sporozoites are vermiform, measuring an average of 11.6 × 4.0 μm. The results of the sequencing for the 18S rDNA gene confirmed the species of Eimeria parasites found in the host (rabbits). The current parasite species is closely related to the previously described and deposited E. magna and deeply embedded in the genus Eimeria (family Eimeriidae). According to the findings, single oocyst molecular identification of Eimeria may be accomplished through consistent use of the morphological and molecular results. It is possible to draw the conclusion that the current research supplies relevant facts that help assess the potential infection and future control measures against rabbit coccidiosis to reduce the financial losses that can be incurred by the rabbit industry in Saudi Arabia.