Taxonomic summary of (Cestoda: Bothriocephalidae) with a redescription of (Malhotra, 1983) from India.

In this study, we use an integrative taxonomic approach to redescribe (Malhotra, 1983) (Cestoda: Bothriocephalidae), based on newly collected specimens from the type-host (Hamilton, 1822) (Cypriniformes: Danionidae) in Fulbari, Siliguri, West Bengal, India. The detailed morphological assessment, from whole mounts, histology and scanning electron microscopy, offers additional insights into the scolex structure, vitelline follicles, and egg morphology. Molecular data from this and previous studies corroborate the identity and systematics of as a bothriocephalid closely related to the Asian Fish Tapeworm, (Yamaguti, 1934). This study elucidates the historical context and taxonomic ambiguities surrounding , emphasizing the key role of the scolex in both generic and species identification. Amendments to the diagnosis of Akhmerov, 1960 are proposed. A differential diagnosis of the two valid species within the genus, namely and , is also provided. An evaluation of the taxonomic status of Malhotra, 1984, and Malhotra, 1985 suggests that they may be Finally, we posit that none of the ten species of Lönnberg, 1889 described from Indian freshwater teleosts belong to this genus but instead appear to be a mix of species belonging to , Dollfus, 1934, and possibly even Proteocephalidae La Rue, 1911; all require further study based on newly collected, properly fixed specimens and an integrated taxonomic approach. Finally, future survey studies may reveal hidden diversity of species in Indian cyprinoids.