What type of organism causes malaria?

Malaria is caused by a type of organism known as a protozoa, specifically from the genus Plasmodium. These unicellular organisms are classified under the kingdom Protista and are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Once inside the human host, the Plasmodium protozoa reproduce within the liver and then infect red blood cells, leading to the symptoms associated with malaria.

Understanding that malaria is caused by a protozoan highlights the broader classification of infectious agents. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi represent different categories of microorganisms, each with unique characteristics and methods of infection, but they are not responsible for malaria. This distinction is important in the field of microbiology, as it influences treatment strategies and preventive measures against the disease.