Hidden diversity of the most basal tapeworms (Cestoda, Gyrocotylidea), the enigmatic parasites of holocephalans (Chimaeriformes).

ABSTRACT: Gyrocotylideans are evolutionary ancient parasitic flatworms, and like their hosts-a relict group of holocephalan fishes (Chimaeriformes)-they are considered to be "living fossils" of a vanished past. However, the species diversity, host associations and biogeography of these most basal tapeworms are poorly known. Herein, we provide evidence of a conspicuous contrast between the genetic and morphological data based on an examination of newly collected and properly processed Gyrocotyle specimens (hologenophores) isolated from holocephalans off Taiwan and Argentina. Our molecular data, inferred from three genes (COI, 28S rRNA, 18S rRNA), showed unexpected genetic interrelationships among isolates of the genus Gyrocotyle, because each of the four genotypes from Taiwan clustered with isolates

SUBMITTER: Barcak D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7970904 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature