Uncovering the diversity of Paradiplozoon (monogeneans): still much more to explore?
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| Year of publication | 2022 |
| Type | Conference abstract |
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| Citation | |
| Description | Monogeneans of the Diplozoidae are host-specific parasites to cyprinoid fish, and among them, Paradiplozoon is the most diverse genus. Despite recent descriptions of several Paradiplozoon species from Africa and Asia, the diversity of Paradiplozoon appears to be underexplored. Therefore, in our research, we aimed to study Paradiplozoon diversity with respect to the enormous diversity and endemism of cyprinoids. From 2014 to 2021, 74 cyprinoid species were sampled and examined for diplozoids in 15 countries in Euro-Mediterranean, Middle East, and Africa. The collected specimens were identified by the means of morphology and molecular data. For phylogenetic analyses and intraspecific genetic variability assessment, the ITS2 region was used. Results A total of 10 Paradiplozoon species were collected in the investigated region, out of which three were newly described. Paradiplozoon homoion had the widest host range (44 host species, 15 genera) as well as the widest geographical distribution. All investigated Paradiplozoon species were divided into three divergent lineages on the phylogram, suggesting multiple origins of diplozoids in the area. Some generalists Paradiplozoon species exhibited genetic and morphological intraspecific variabilities in line with their geographic distribution. Reconstructed phylogeny supported Paradiplozoon paraphyly, further promoting the importance of additional investigation. Our results suggested that biogeographical processes had impact on the intraspecific variability of Paradiplozoon species. |
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