Haemoproteus columbae

[1] Haemoproteus columbae is a true member of the genus Haemoproteus, basal to other avian Parahaemoproteus species.

[2] Parahaemoproteus species have been subsequently split from Haemoproteus and are recognized as their own genus, sister to Plasmodium malaria parasites.

[3] Haemoproteus columbae is transmitted by the pigeon louse fly, Pseudolynchia canariensis.

Haemoproteus columbae infects pigeons.

It is usually benign and does not reduce survival of its host.

Male (upper left, more pink) and female (lower right, more blue) Haemoproteus columbae parasites in Rock Pigeon nucleated red blood cells.
Male (upper left, more pink) and female (lower right, more blue) H. columbae parasites in Rock Pigeon nucleated red blood cells.