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.
Macrogametocyte also Maurers dost and clefts, slight crenation and lost pallor
Microgametocyte: the small rod does not fully fill the erythrocyte, the residual red cell membrane is lose to the side of the membrane
Macrogametocyte A nice typical form with scanty well-formed Maurers dots