Eimeria akrurensis n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae), a New Coccidian Parasite from the Domestic Goat (Capra hircus) in Dharashiv (Previously Osmanabad), India.

Coccidiosis caused by Eimeria species remains a significant protozoan disease affecting the health and productivity of small ruminants. During a faecal survey of domestic goats (Capra hircus) conducted in Dharashiv (Previously Osmanabad) District, Maharashtra, India (June 2013-May 2015), a new Eimeria species was identified and described. A total of 3,004 fecal samples were examined, of which 2,473 samples were positive for coccidian infection. Among these, 261 samples were found positive for the new species (Eimeria akrurensis n. sp.), with an overall prevalence of 10.6%. The oocysts of E. akrurensis n. sp. are subspherical to elongate, bilayered, and measure 23.0 × 20.5 µm (range: 19.0-27.0 × 17.0-24.0 µm) with an L/W ratio of 1.12. The oocysts possess a distinct micropyle (2.0-4.0 µm wide) and micropylar cap (1.0-2.0 µm high × 2.0-4.0 µm wide), but lack an oocyst residuum; two or more polar granules are present. Sporocysts are ovoid, 10.5 × 7.5 µm, with a prominent Stieda body and a few scattered granules forming the oocyst residuum. In potassium dichromate, sporulation occurs within 60-90 hours at 24-26°C in samples. The new species differs from Eimeria crandallis and Eimeria hirci by its subspherical shape, smaller micropyle and micropylar cap, and prominent Stieda body. This discovery adds to the known diversity of caprine coccidia and contributes to the understanding of host-specific Eimeria spp. fauna in the semi-arid region of Maharashtra, India.