The study of phylogenetic relationships among apicomplexan parasites using genetic data is crucial for understanding the diversity, distribution, and evolutionary history of these organisms, which significantly impact veterinary health and livestock productivity worldwide. Grasping the genetic diversity of apicomplexan parasites across different geographical regions and host species is essential for developing effective control strategies, including vaccines and therapies tailored to specific parasite strains. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis helps identify sources and transmission pathways of parasites, as well as genetic markers associated with virulence and drug resistance. This supports sustainable practices by guiding targeted parasite control measures, reducing reliance on broad-spectrum treatments, and mitigating the development of drug resistance.

Integrating phylogenetic methods with sustainability principles creates a robust framework for addressing the challenges posed by apicomplexan parasites. This approach helps reduce disease risk, enhance the resilience of livestock systems, and support farming communities through sustainable subsistence practices using genetic insights. Advances in sequencing technologies now enable scientists to extract transcriptomic and genomic data from apicomplexan parasites. Additionally, the development of sophisticated bioinformatics software and algorithms facilitates more comprehensive phylogenetic analyses, uncovering genetic diversity and hotspot variants of these parasites. The objective of this topic is to compile research on incorporating sustainability principles into the study and management of apicomplexan parasites using phylogenetic characterization techniques and analyses.

We are pleased to announce an open call for papers for our research topic on the phylogenetics of apicomplexan parasites. This topic seeks to gather articles from senior scientists, early-career researchers, and academicians of diverse ethnicities and backgrounds who are working in alignment with our proposed theme. We invite submissions of original articles, systematic reviews, mini-reviews, perspectives, and case reports that provide advanced insights into this area. Apicomplexan parasites are distinguished by their apical complex, a specialized organelle involved in host cell invasion. The phylum Apicomplexa comprises a diverse group of protozoan parasites from various families and species, each with unique biological and ecological characteristics. We are inviting contributions on following specific themes:

-Studies covering some well-known genera of apicomplexa with veterinary importance; Eimeria, Toxoplasma, Sarcocystis, Neospora, Babesia, Theileria, Cryptosporidium, Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoan and other coccidian parasites of veterinary and wild life significance.

-Phylogenetic relationship and genetic diversity amongst these apicomplexan parasites.

-Evolutionary insight and functional divergence of these apicomplexan parasites.

-Sustainable practices for livestock management from apicomplexan parasites with insight into the advances in disease pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and vaccination.

-Studies discussing genetic diversity of apicomplexan parasites that diverge across geographical regions and host species, host parasite interactions.

-Studies related to molecular markers linked to virulence, phylogeny, drug resistance, diagnosis, treatment and control of these apicomplexan parasites.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Phylogenetic insights into apicomplexan parasites of veterinary and wild life importance: Advancing sustainable livestock management