<prompt> Which plasmodium infection has predilection for attacking old RBCs?Plasmodium VivaxPlasmodium OvalePlasmodium malariaePlasmodium Falciparum  <response>: Ref: Harrisons, 19th ed. pg. 1371 P. vivax, P. ovale, show a marked predilection for young RBCs P. malariae has predilection for old RBCs P. falciparum can invade erythrocytes of all ages and may be associated with very high levels of parasitemia.Characteristics of plasmodium species infecting humansFinding of indicated speciesCharacteristicP. falciparumP. vivaxP. ovaleP. malariaeDuration of intrahepatic phase days5.58915Number of merozoites released per infected hepatocyte30,00010,00015,00015,000Duration of erythrocytic cycle hours48485072Red cell preferenceYounger cell but can invade cells of all agesReticulocytes and cells up to 2 weeks oldReticulocytesOlder cellsMorphology of RBC and parasitesUsually only ring forms; banana-shaped gametocytes, Maurer dotsIrregularly shaped large rings and trophozoites; enlarged erythrocytes; Schuffners dotsInfected erythocytes, enlarged and oval with tufted end; James dotsBand or rectangular forms of trophozoites common Ziemanns dotAbility to cause relapsesNoYesYesNo 