Document of bibliographic reference 340382

BibliographicReference record

Type

Bibliographic resource

Type of document

Book chapters

BibLvlCode

AMS

Title

Evolution, origins and diversification of parasitic cnidarians

Abstract

Parasitism has evolved in cnidarians on multiple occasions but only one clade—the Myxozoa—has undergone substantial radiation. We briefly review minor parasitic clades that exploit pelagic hosts and then focus on the comparative biology and evolution of the highly speciose Myxozoa and its monotypic sister taxon, Polypodium hydriforme, which collectively form the Endocnidozoa. Cnidarian features that may have facilitated the evolution of endoparasitism are highlighted before considering endocnidozoan origins, life cycle evolution and potential early hosts. We review the fossil evidence and evaluate existing inferences based on molecular clock and cophylogenetic analyses. Finally, we consider patterns of adaptation and diversification and stress how poor sampling might preclude adequate understanding of endocnidozoan diversity.

Bibliographic citation

Okamura, B.; Gruhl, A. (2021). Evolution, origins and diversification of parasitic cnidarians, in: De Baets, K. The evolution and fossil record of parasitism. Topics in Geobiology, 49: pp. 109-152

Topic

Marine