A new classification of the Cestode order Proteocephalidea Mola

Abstract

The morphology, ontogeny, life-cycles and distribution of species of the Order Proteocephalidea (Cestoda), is discussed. A brief historic of the classifications is presented. The actual scheme of taxonomy of WOODLAND (1924-1935) is criticicized and a new classification for the group is proposed. The phylogenetic uniformity of Proteocephalideans is reestablished with this classification. The genera of Monticelliidae (sensu Woodland) are transferred to the subfamilies Proteocephalinae and Corallobothriinae. Only one family is accepted in the Proteocephalidea. Proteocephalidae La Rue. 1911: with five subfamilies: Proteocephalinae. Corallobothriinae. Sandonelliinae. Gangesiinae and Acanthotaeniinae.