Squaretail Parasitic Flatworm [Squalonchocotyle antarctica]

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
|