A trophozoite is the active, feeding, and growing stage of a protozoan parasite. It contrasts with other life cycle stages such as cysts, which are dormant and resistant.
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Trophozoites are typically found in host tissues or fluids where they actively feed and reproduce.
They can be identified microscopically by their motility and distinctive morphology.
During adverse conditions, trophozoites often transform into cysts to survive outside the host.
Common diseases involving trophozoites include malaria (Plasmodium spp.) and amoebiasis (Entamoeba histolytica).
Diagnosis of infections often involves detecting trophozoites in clinical samples like blood smears or stool samples.