Plasmodium is classified as a type of protozoa known as Sporozoa because of its unique reproductive mechanism. Sporozoa are a group of parasitic protozoans that reproduce through a process known as sporogony. In the case of Plasmodium, the parasite undergoes a complex life cycle that involves both sexual and asexual reproduction. The asexual stage of the parasite's life cycle occurs within the red blood cells of the human host, where the parasite multiplies through schizogony, a process where the parasite undergoes multiple divisions to produce new merozoites. The sexual stage of the parasite's life cycle occurs within the mosquito vector, where the parasite undergoes sporogony. During sporogony, the parasite divides to produce sporozoites, which are then transmitted to the human host when the mosquito bites. The unique feature of sporozoans, including Plasmodium, is that they produce spores, which are specialized cells that enable the parasite to survive in harsh environments, such as outside the host's body. The spores are resistant to heat, cold, and desiccation, allowing them to remain viable for extended periods. The production of spores during sporogony is why the group is called Sporozoa. This feature distinguishes them from other protozoans that reproduce through binary fission or budding.