Gametocyte stages   I II III IV V Days of appearance (Approximately in vitro) 0-1 1-3 4-5 6-7 8-14 Morphological distinguishing features Mostly non-distinct small or large round trophozoites seen. Start to elongate and usually are in D appearance ♂ and ♀ differentiation is visible. RBCs distorted and are D shaped The parasite more elongated in shape. Distinct red cell male with scattered pigment and ♀ pigment more intense. Typical crescent shaped gametocytes with rounded extremities. ♀ appear light violet and ♂ seen pink under microscopy. Microscopic Image   ♂       ♀

Table 1: Morphological characteristic of the gametocytes.