**Core Concept**
The question is testing the understanding of the pathophysiology of malaria, specifically the types of red blood cells (RBCs) targeted by different Plasmodium species. In malaria, the parasite invades and replicates within the RBCs, leading to their destruction and the release of toxins.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Quartan malaria, caused by Plasmodium malariae, is characterized by the invasion and destruction of older, senescent RBCs. This is due to the unique mechanism of invasion used by P. malariae, which targets RBCs that are 14-28 days old. The parasite invades these cells by inserting its merozoites into the RBC membrane, leading to the destruction of the cell and the release of the parasite into the bloodstream.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Vivax malaria, caused by Plasmodium vivax, typically targets younger RBCs, and the parasite invades these cells by rupturing the cell membrane and injecting its merozoites into the cell.
* **Option B:** Ovale malaria, caused by Plasmodium ovale, also targets younger RBCs and invades them using a similar mechanism to P. vivax.
* **Option C:** Falciparum malaria, caused by Plasmodium falciparum, is highly virulent and can infect any age RBC, but it tends to target younger and middle-aged RBCs.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the type of malaria and the age of the RBCs targeted can help in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. For example, the presence of older RBCs in the peripheral blood smear can indicate Quartan malaria, while the presence of younger RBCs may suggest Vivax or Ovale malaria.

**Correct Answer:**
✓ Correct Answer: D. Quartan malaria