Penguins are competent hosts of Haemoproteus parasites: the first detection of gametocytes, with molecular characterization of Haemoproteus larae Conclusions This study shows that some species of Haemoproteus parasites complete their development and produce gametocytes in penguins, which may be source of infection for biting midges transmitting haemoproteosis. To prevent haemosporidiosis in zoos, we call for control not only of mosquitoes, but also biting midges. https://media.springernature.com/lw685/springer-static/image/art%3A10.1186%2Fs13071-020-04176-1/MediaObjects/13071_2020_4176_Figa_HTML.png?as=webp