Squaretail Parasitic Flatworm [Squalonchocotyle antarctica]

Squaretail Parasitic Flatworm
Description

Squalonchocotyle antarctica is a species of monogenean, parasitic on the gills of a shark (Squalus acanthias). It was described from specimens collected off the coast of Antarctica. The species is characterized by a squarish body shape, hence the common name, and a unique arrangement of hooklets on the haptor, which is the organ used for attachment to the host.

Taxonomy
Phylum Flatworms
Platyhelminthes
Class Monogenea
Monogenea
Order Polyopisthocotylea
Polyopisthocotylea
Family Hexabothriidae
Hexabothriidae
Genus Squalonchocotyle
Squalonchocotyle
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