Morphology and Taxonomy of Bathyodontina (Dorylaimida)

Abstract

Detailed studies of the morphology of head region and stoma with associated muscles of Mononchulus, Oionchus and Bathyodontus show that it is justified to regard these genera as representing a taxonomic unit. This is further supported by the location of the oesophageal gland nuclei and orifices. However, there exist profound differences in stoma structure between Mononchulus and Oionchus on one hand, and Bathyodontus on the other. Taking into account the recent revision of the mononchs by Jairajpuri (1969) we raise Bathyodontidae to subordinal rank along with Mononchina and Dorylaimina. The subfamilies Bathyodontinae and Mononchulinae are raised to superfamily rank. Isolaimium is excluded from Bathyodontina, but Cryptonchus should possibly be placed near Bathyodontus.