Compositions that inhibit the binding of Plasmodium falciparum to erythrocytes are provided. More particularly, antibodies specific for Plasmodium falciparum binding proteins and blocking peptides that prevent the binding of Plasmodium falciparum are included in the present invention. The methods provided utilize the antibody and peptide compositions provided herein and include methods for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Plasmodium falciparum diseases such as malaria as well as methods for the detection of Plasmodium falciparum in biological samples and culture media.