Proteromonas

Proteromonas (Proteromonas Künstler 1883, Prowazekella) is a genus of single-celled biflagellated microbial eukaryotes belonging to the Superphylum Stramenopiles which are characterized by the presence of tripartite, hair-like structures on the anteriorly-directed larger of the two flagella. Proteromonas on the other hand are notable by having tripartite hairs called somatonemes not on the flagella but on the posterior of the cell. Proteromonas are closely related to Karotomorpha and Blastocystis, which belong to the Opalines group.

Many species of Proteromonas are anaerobic and parasitic and can be found in the intestines of amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. The exact habitat and distribution of Proteromonas may vary depending on the species, but they are generally found as intestinal parasites in small animals. The most common and well-researched species is Proteromonas lacertae, which is a very common parasite found in the rectums of reptiles, mostly lizards.