Geography is a stronger predictor of diversification of monogenean parasites (Platyhelminthes) than host relatedness in characin fishes of Middle America.

ABSTRACT: Host-parasite associations have historically been considered compelling examples of coevolution and useful in examining cospeciation. However, modern molecular methods have revealed more complex dynamics than previously assumed, with host-switching events appearing commonly across taxa and challenging traditional views of strict coevolution in host-parasite relationships. Monogenean parasites are considered highly host-specific and have long served as models for probing evolution of host-parasite associations, particularly in differentiating geographic and phylogenetic patterns of parasite diversification. We investigated the phylogeographic patterns of monogenean ectoparasites associated with four species of characin fishes across Panama, Nicaragua, and Mexico. We hypothesize that parasit

SUBMITTER: Alda F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12040092 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature