Final answer:
The parasite that causes malaria in humans is Plasmodium, specifically the most deadly species Plasmodium falciparum which is transmitted by Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. Option 1) Plasmodium is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The parasite that causes malaria in humans is Plasmodium. This parasitic disease is transmitted by the bite of infected female Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes.
Among the several species of Plasmodium that can cause malaria, Plasmodium falciparum is the most deadly, causing severe symptoms such as high fevers, chills, flu-like symptoms, anemia, and even death if not treated promptly. Plasmodium parasites have a complex life cycle, involving development within liver cells and subsequently infecting and destroying red blood cells.
Malaria is preventable through measures such as mosquito netting and can be treated with antimalarial drugs, although resistance to treatment is a growing concern.
The correct option for the parasite that causes malaria in humans is: 1) Plasmodium.