SummaryGametocytes in this species are highly distinctive. They develop within the red cell as long rods, however the red cell membrane continues to restrict them - the haemoglobin is fully metabolised so is not visible, but the residual membrane of the red cell "ghost" can usually be seen to the side of the red cell. The gametocytes differ with large (macrogametocyte) forms that become curved because of the red cell membrane restricting thir shape (banana form); the smaller (microgametocytes) retain the rod shape.
Double chromatin dot form also Maurers dost and clefts, slight crenation and lost pallor
Accolé form: closely associated with the red cell membrane, scanty mauers dots
Accolé form A nice typical form with scanty well-formed Maurers dots