Systematic status of Philometra jordanoi (López-Neyra, 1951) and some other congeneric species previously identified as Philometra lateolabracis (Yamaguti, 1935) (Nematoda: Philometridae).

Abstract

The systematic status of the gonad-infecting Philometra species previously reported as P. lateolabracis (Yamaguti, 1935) from marine fishes in the Mediterranean region and off New Caledonia is evaluated with respect to the recent redescription of P. lateolabracis from the type host in Japan. Philometra jordanoi (López-Neyra, 1951) is revalidated to accommodate the nematodes from Epinephelus marginatus, whereas the philometrids from other European hosts (Mycteroperca rubra and Seriola dumerili), as well as those from the gonads of Epinephelus cyanopodus and E. fasciatus off New Caledonia, should be reported as Philometra sp. until new data are available. Also the philometrids reported as P. lateolabracis from Parupeneus indicus from off Somalia should be designated as Philometra sp. for the time being.