Entamoeba hostolytica feeds on erythrocytes, mucosal n submucosa of colon which leads to amoebiasis.

Active Form of Entamoeba histolytica Feeds Upon

The active form of Entamoeba histolytica, a parasitic protozoan, primarily feeds upon erythrocytes, as well as the mucosa and submucosa of the colon. This feeding behavior allows the organism to obtain nutrients and energy for its survival and reproduction.

Feeding Mechanism of Entamoeba histolytica

1. Feeding on Erythrocytes: Entamoeba histolytica has the ability to invade the intestinal wall and penetrate blood vessels. Once in the bloodstream, it can directly feed on the erythrocytes (red blood cells) present. This feeding behavior is known as hematophagy, and it helps the organism acquire essential nutrients, such as iron and other metabolites.

2. Feeding on Mucosa and Submucosa of Colon: The primary site of infection for Entamoeba histolytica is the colon. The trophozoite form of the organism attaches to the mucosa and submucosa of the colon using its adhesive structures, such as lectins and cysteine proteases. It then feeds on the host tissues by phagocytosis, a process in which it engulfs and digests the host cells.

3. Damage to the Host Tissues: The feeding activity of Entamoeba histolytica leads to damage and destruction of the host tissues. This contributes to the pathogenesis of amoebiasis, the disease caused by the parasite. The invasion of the mucosa and submucosa can result in ulcers and abscesses in the colon, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools.

Significance of Feeding Behavior

The feeding behavior of Entamoeba histolytica is crucial for its survival and virulence. By feeding on erythrocytes and host tissues, the parasite obtains the necessary nutrients and energy to replicate and establish infection within the host. The ability to invade the mucosa and submucosa of the colon allows the parasite to cause tissue damage, leading to the characteristic symptoms of amoebiasis.

In Conclusion

The active form of Entamoeba histolytica feeds upon erythrocytes, as well as the mucosa and submucosa of the colon. This feeding behavior is essential for the survival and pathogenicity of the parasite, as it enables the acquisition of nutrients and the establishment of infection within the host. The resulting damage to the host tissues contributes to the development of amoebiasis.