Compared to roundworm ova, coccidia appear:

Compared to roundworm ova, coccidia appear:

• A. Smaller
• B. The same size
• C. Twice as large
• D. Three times as large

Answer: (A)

Size is the key idea. Coccidia produce oocysts that are much smaller than the eggs of most roundworms. Roundworm eggs, like Ascaris, are relatively large (tens of micrometers in length), whereas coccidian oocysts are typically around 20–30 micrometers. That substantial size difference means coccidia appear smaller under the microscope, which helps distinguish them on fecal exams.

Size is the key idea. Coccidia produce oocysts that are much smaller than the eggs of most roundworms. Roundworm eggs, like Ascaris, are relatively large (tens of micrometers in length), whereas coccidian oocysts are typically around 20–30 micrometers. That substantial size difference means coccidia appear smaller under the microscope, which helps distinguish them on fecal exams.