Diversity and distribution of fish tapeworms of the "Bothriocephalidea" (Eucestoda)

Abstract

Recent studies have demonstrated the invalidity of the Pseudophyllidea, a long-term recognised order of tapeworms (Platyhelminthes: Cestoda), typical in possessing two dorsoventrally situated attachment organs called bothria. In fact, cestodes parasitic in tetrapods, especially mammals including man, form a relatively basal group called provisionally the "Diphyllobothriidea", whereas tapeworms occurring in freshwater and marine fish, with a few taxa known from amphibians (frogs and newts), belong to a more derived clade, for which the name "Bothriocephalidea" is tentatively proposed. Revision of the "Bothriocephalidea", based on literary data, study of type- and voucher specimens and extensive newly collected material made it possible to critically review the species composition of the group and to prepare a tentative list of its valid species. Out of 305 nominal taxa, only 125 species are considered to be valid. In addition, the spectrum of definitive hosts and geographical distribution of bothriocephalideans are briefly discussed.