Trichomonas

The genus Trichomonas refers to a group of protozoan parasites belonging to the order Trichomonadida. These single-celled eukaryotes are characterized by having three to six flagella, which are whip-like appendages used for movement. Most trichomonads live in the digestive systems of animals.1

The genus Trichomonas itself commonly infects animal digestive tracts. Its cells are typically pear-shaped and possess anterior flagella, with one often bordering an undulating membrane. Species within this genus can cause infections in humans, such as T. vaginalis, a common cause of sexually transmitted infections, and T. hominis in the intestine. Tritrichomonas foetus is a notable pathogen in cattle.123