A New Neotropical Species of Gnathostoma (Nematoda: Gnathostomatidae) from the Northern Four-Eyed Opossum Philander vossi (Marsupialia)
Year: 2025
Type: article
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 cox1 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.
Source: Acta Parasitologica
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,090
OpenAlex ID: W4416225089