Integrative taxonomic approach to the cryptic diversity of Diplostomum spp. in lymnaeid snails from Europe with a focus on the 'Diplostomum mergi' species complex.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Recent molecular studies have discovered substantial unrecognised diversity within the genus Diplostomum in fish populations in Europe and North America including three species complexes. However, data from the first intermediate host populations are virtually lacking. This study addresses the application of an integrative taxonomic approach to the cryptic species diversity of Diplostomum spp. in natural lymnaeid snail populations in Europe with a focus on the 'D. mergi' species complex.

Methods

Totals of 1,909 Radix auricularia, 349 Radix peregra, 668 Stagnicola palustris and 245 Lymnaea stagnalis were sampled at five reservoirs of the Ruhr river system in Germany and screened for infections with Diplostomum spp. Cercariae were examined and identified alive, fixe

SUBMITTER: Selbach C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4476078 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature