Multiple fission is a reproductive process where a single parent cell divides into many daughter cells simultaneously. In Plasmodium, this occurs during the schizogony stage of its life cycle.

Biological Process:

• The Plasmodium cell grows significantly in size
• The nucleus undergoes repeated mitotic divisions without cytoplasmic division
• Numerous daughter nuclei form within the single cell
• Cytoplasm organizes around each nucleus
• The plasma membrane invaginates to form individual daughter cells
• The parent cell ruptures, releasing the daughter cells to infect new red blood cells

Significance in Malaria:

This process allows for rapid multiplication of the parasite within the host's red blood cells, leading to exponential growth and the characteristic cyclical fevers of malaria.

Key Characteristics:

• Produces 12-24 merozoites per schizont
• Completed in 48-72 hours (depending on Plasmodium species)
• Coincides with the rupture of red blood cells
• Responsible for clinical symptoms of malaria