Multiple independent origins of apicomplexan-like parasites

Using single-cell genomics and transcriptomics from diverse uncultivated parasites, we find that two genera classified as apicomplexan, Piridium and Platyproteum, form distinct lineages in phylogenomic analyses. Both retain cryptic plastids with genomic and metabolic features convergent with apicomplexans. These findings suggest a predilection in this lineage for both the loss of photosynthesis and a transition to a morphologically similar parasitic lifestyle, resulting in multiple lineages of highly convergent animal parasites.