Seasonal change and phylogenetic position of (Nematoda: Dracunculidae) parasitic in Japanese giant salamanders.

(Linstow, 1902) (Nematoda: Dracunculidae) parasitizes subcutis of cryptobranchid salamanders in Japan and the U.S.A. is a monotypic genus including only . Here, we analyzed the phylogenetic relationship of in other dracunculid and micropleurid species. We also reported the seasonal change of the present species in the infection rate in the skin of species in Kyoto and Hyogo prefectures, Japan. We collected this species from the skin of and hybrids ( × ) from spring to early summer. Female likely mature and release larvae during this season in Japan. In addition, formed a sister clade to as well as in our phylogenetic analysis.