A New Neotropical Species of Gnathostoma (Nematoda: Gnathostomatidae) from the Northern Four-Eyed Opossum Philander vossi (Marsupialia)

Abstract

Purpose This work provides a detailed morphological description of a previously identified but unnamed lineage inside Gnathostoma spp. from Mexico. Methods Specimens of the four-eyed opossum Philader vossi were collected in Tlacotalpan, Veracruz, Mexico. Specimens were examined morphologically using both light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, we generate DNA sequences for the following loci: mitochondrial cox 1 and nuclear 5.8S rRNA and ITS-2 and 28S rDNA. Results The new species, Gnathostoma mexicanum n. sp., differs from G. turgidum Stossich, 1902, the common gnathostomid species infecting Didelphis spp. from the Americas, in its smaller body size, fewer teeth on the cuticular spines at anterior half of body, as well as site of infection (pyloric region vs. stomach layers). Host specificity further distinguishes the two species. Additionally, molecular data show that the new species clearly diverges from its congeners. Conclusions This work represents the fourth Gnathostoma species described for Mexican mammals and the eight recorded in the Americas.

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