Molecular characteristation of digenetic trematodes associated with Cyathura carinata (Crustacea: Isopoda) with a note on the utility of 18S ribosomal DNA for phylogenetic analysis in the Digenea (Platyhelminthes: Trematoda).

Analysis of 18S rDNA sequences isolated from Cyathura carinata (Crustacea: Isopoda) indicate that two different species of the Digenea (Platyhelminthes: Trematoda) parasitize this isopod species for which parasitic associations have previously been unknown. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the largest data set of digenetic 18S rDNA sequences published to date, also suggests that 18S rDNA is unsuitable for the reconstruction of phylogenetic relationships of the major digenetic lineages either due to rapid radiation of these lineages or the presence of homoplasy at this level.