Question

Name the protozoan species that is responsible for causing the most serious and even fatal malarial disease.

Hint:

Always underline scientific names or write them in italics. "Malignant" is the keyword associated with \textit{P. falciparum}.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Malaria is caused by various species of the genus \textit{Plasmodium}. The severity of the fever and complications depends on the specific species involved.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
There are four species that cause human malaria: \textit{P. vivax}, \textit{P. malariae}, \textit{P. ovale}, and \textit{P. falciparum}.
Malignant malaria caused by \textit{Plasmodium falciparum is the most serious one and can even be fatal due to complications like cerebral malaria.
Step 3: Final Answer:
\textit{Plasmodium falciparum}.