Quartan malaria is caused by Plasmodium

Options

A. ovale
B. falciparum
C. malariae
D. vivax

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Malaria Types**: Malaria is caused by different species of the genus Plasmodium. There are three main types of malaria: benign tertian malaria, benign quartan malaria, and malignant tertian malaria.

2. **Identifying Benign Tertian Malaria**: Benign tertian malaria is characterized by fever occurring every second day. This type is caused by two species: *Plasmodium vivax* and *Plasmodium ovale*.

3. **Identifying Benign Quartan Malaria**: Benign quartan malaria is characterized by fever occurring every third day. This type is specifically caused by *Plasmodium malariae*.

4. **Identifying Malignant Tertian Malaria**: Malignant tertian malaria is more severe, with fever that can be prolonged and recurrent every two days. This is caused by *Plasmodium falciparum*, which is known for its dangerous complications.

5. **Analyzing the Question**: The question asks which species causes quartan malaria. Based on our understanding, *Plasmodium malariae* is responsible for this type of malaria.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question "Quartan malaria is caused by Plasmodium" is *Plasmodium malariae*.

**Final Answer**: *Plasmodium malariae* (Option C).

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