Mastigamoeba

Mastigamoeba is a genus of protozoans belonging to the order Rhizomastigida. These organisms exhibit characteristics of both flagellates and sarcodines, meaning they possess flagella for movement and pseudopodia (cytoplasmic extensions). They are typically amoeboid in shape and can have one to fifty flagella.12

Mastigamoeba species are commonly found in freshwater, saltwater, soil, or as parasites within other organisms. A notable parasitic example is Histomonas meleagridis, which causes enterohepatitis, or blackhead disease, in poultry. These parasitic forms are active, amoeba-like organisms that also have a flagellate stage and can be transmitted through feces or worm eggs.1