The phylogenetic relationships of Kronborgia (Platyhelminthes, Fecampiida) based on comparison of 18S ribosomal DNA sequences

Abstract

Approximately 580 bp at the 5' end of the small subunit RNA gene were amplified by PCR for 19 platyhelminth taxa, and Homo and Artemia were used as outgroups. These were analysed to test the hypothesis that fecampiids and Neodermata are sister groups. No evidence was found that the fecampiid Kronborgia isopodicola is closely related to the Neodermata or to the Rhabdocoela (in which the fecampiids are usually included). Morphological, including ultrastructural, characters and DNA data do not support a close relationship of fecampiids with any other platyhelminth taxon, although the DNA sequence analysis provides some evidence that the Acoela and Tricladida are closest. Fecampiids are sufficiently different from any other platyhelminth group to warrant establishment of a class, Fecampiida, for them. A diagnosis of the new class is given.