Morphological Data Research Articles

Head anatomy and phylogenomics show the Carboniferous giant Arthropleura belonged to a millipede-centipede group.

The Carboniferous myriapod Arthropleura is the largest arthropod of all time, but its fossils are usually incomplete, limiting the understanding of its anatomy, ecology, and relationships. Micro-computed tomography applied to exceptionally preserved specimens from the Carboniferous Montceau-les-Mines Lagerstätte (France) reveals unprecedented details of its functional anatomy, such as the head and mouthparts. Arthropleura shares features with both millipedes and centipedes. Total-evidence phylogeny combining morphological and transcriptomic data resolves Arthropleura alone as a stem group millipede, but the inclusion of the highly incomplete Siluro-Devonian Eoarthropleura draws it deeper into the myriapod stem. Arthropleura suggests transitional morphology between clades united primarily by molecular information and underscores the value of total-evidence phylogenetics to understanding evolutionary history.

Recognition of Pleuropterus angulatus (Polygonaceae) as a separate species: evidence from morphological and molecular data

On the basis of morphological and molecular data, we demonstrate that Polygonum multiflorum var. angulatum actually belongs to the genus Pleuropterus. As a consequence, a nomenclatural change (Pleuropterus angulatus comb. et stat. nov.) is proposed. This species is closely related to Pleuropterus multiflorus, but differ from the latter in root tuber color (white vs. yellow-brown in P. multiflorus), vascular strands (absent vs. present), branchlets (densely papillate vs. smooth), and vein (densely papillae vs. non-papillate), and extra-floral nectaries (deeper, thicker around the lips vs. shallow, thin).

J-PLUS: Bayesian object classification with a strum of BANNJOS

With its 12 optical filters, the Javalambre-Photometric Local Universe Survey (J-PLUS) provides an unprecedented multicolor view of the local Universe. The third data release (DR3) covers 3,192 deg$^2$ and contains 47.4 million objects. However, the classification algorithms currently implemented in the J-PLUS pipeline are deterministic and based solely on the morphology of the sources. Our goal is to classify the sources identified in the J-PLUS DR3 images as stars, quasi-stellar objects (QSOs), or galaxies. For this task, we present a machine learning pipeline that utilizes Bayesian neural networks to provide the full probability distribution function (PDF) of the classification. has been trained on photometric, astrometric, and morphological data from J-PLUS DR3 DR3, and using over 1.2 million objects with spectroscopic classification from DR18 DR9, the Early Data Release, and DR3. Results were validated on a test set of about $1.4 10^5$ objects and cross-checked against theoretical model predictions. outperforms all previous classifiers in terms of accuracy, precision, and completeness across the entire magnitude range. It delivers over $95<!PCT!>$ accuracy for objects brighter than $r = 21.5$ mag and $ 90<!PCT!>$ accuracy for those up to $r = 22$ mag, where J-PLUS completeness is $ 25<!PCT!>$. is also the first object classifier to provide the full PDF of the classification, enabling precise object selection for high purity or completeness, and for identifying objects with complex features, such as active galactic nuclei with resolved host galaxies. effectively classified J-PLUS sources into around 20 million galaxies, one million QSOs, and 26 million stars, with full PDFs for each, which allow for later refinement of the sample. The upcoming J-PAS survey, with its 56 color bands, will further enhance 's ability to detail the nature of each source.

MORPHOLOGICAL AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF DICHELYNE (NEOCULLANELLUS) DAKARENSIS N. SP. (NEMATODA: CUCULLANIDAE) PARASITIZING AN ECONOMICALLY IMPORTANT MARINE FISH, THE SOMPAT GRUNT, POMADASYS JUBELINI (PERCIFORMES: HAEMULIDAE), FROM HANN BAY IN DAKAR, SENEGAL.

Nematodes collected from the intestine of sompat grunt Pomadasys jubelini Cuvier, 1830 from Hann Bay in Dakar, Senegal represent a new species described herein as Dichelyne (Neocucullanellus) dakarensis n. sp., and investigated with the use of light and scanning electron microscopy. The new species differs from its congeners based on several characteristics, especially because the subgenus Neocucullanellus is the only 1 that has 2 ceca. In addition, the new species diagnosis is based on the number and arrangement of the caudal papillae as well as the size of the veil of spicules. Morphological data were supported by molecular analysis. Results obtained using SSU rDNA and COI distinguished the present specimens from other cucullanids. Molecular data indicated the close relatedness between the new species and Dichelyne cotylophora Ward and Magath, 1917.

Investigations on color quality improvement through laser-induced surface oxidation for coloration

This study focuses on laser-induced oxidation of TC4 alloy surfaces and achieves precise color control on TC4 surfaces at room temperature using laser post-processing. The current research lacks an in-depth understanding of the mechanism responsible for color changes due to the number of processing cycles. This study aims to improve the quality of coloration through secondary processing and establish a color control mechanism based on accumulated energy density. Statistical analyses revealed notable reductions in ΔE, ΔC∗, and Δh∗, indicating enhanced color uniformity. Surface morphology and reflectance data further confirmed these findings, demonstrating the effectiveness of secondary processing in achieving consistent and uniform coloration.

Identification, Characteristics, and Fungicide Efficacy of Seed-Associated Fungi of Saposhnikovia divaricata in Northeast China.

Saposhnikovia divaricata (Trucz.) Schischk. is one of the traditional medicinal herbs in Northeast China, and its roots are used for medicinal purposes. In 2020, a fungus isolated from S. divaricata seeds was observed to cause root rot of seedlings and leaf and stem spot of adult plants in Shuangyashan, Heilongjiang, China. Based on morphological and molecular data, isolates of all fungi were identified as Alternaria alternata. To our knowledge, this is the first report of A. alternata isolated from S. divaricata seeds in China. The carrying rate of S. divaricata seeds from 20 different collection sites reached 100% in 70% of the sites in Hulunbeier area, Inner Mongolia, China. The A. alternata isolate could infect the roots of cucumber, sorghum, mung bean, and maize seedlings and cause root rot. Considering the control of seed-associated fungal diseases, prochloraz 45% EW had the best control effect of 92.6%, followed by flusilazole 400 g liter-1 EC (88.9%) and azoxystrobin + propiconazole 18.7% SE (70.7%) of 15 fungicides. Further field control efficacy showed that 45% prochloraz EW had an 80% control efficacy on the disease at a dose of 0.225 g liter-1. It is recommended that soaking seeds and spraying are the best treatments for controlling seed-associated fungi and leaf spot on S. divaricata caused by A. alternata. Therefore, the aforementioned methods can effectively prevent the occurrence of fungal diseases of S. divaricata and provide a way to reduce reinfestation in the field.

Avian diversity across guilds in North America versus vegetation structure as measured by the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI)

Avian diversity, a key indicator of ecosystem health, is closely related to canopy structure. Most avian diversity models are based on either optical remote sensing or airborne lidar data, but the latter is limited to small study areas. The launch of the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) instrument in 2018 has opened new avenues for exploring the influence of vegetation structure on avian diversity. To examine how direct measurements of canopy structural characteristics explain bird diversity across North America, we analyzed 18 GEDI metrics from 2019 to 2022, along with corresponding Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) counts and AVONET morphological data, analyzing effects across broad regions and at varying spatial extents. We grouped 440 bird species into 20 ecological guilds under six guild categories and employed random forest algorithms to model avian diversity across eight spatial extents (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, and 39.2 km). The models predicted six diversity indices, including species richness (sRich), functional richness (fRich), evenness (fEve), dispersion (fDis), divergence (fDiv), and redundancy (fRed) across eight spatial extents. The best-predicted guilds varied for each diversity index. The most accurate models were sRich (pseudo-R2 = 0.71, RMSE = 4.28) and fRed (pseudo-R2 = 0.60, RMSE = 0.13) for forest specialists guilds; fRich (pseudo-R2 = 0.55, RMSE = 0.18) for urban guilds; fEve (pseudo-R2 = 0.28, RMSE = 0.08) for insectivore guilds; and fDiv (pseudo-R2 = 0.38, RMSE = 0.12) and fDis (pseudo-R2 = 0.53, RMSE = 0.87) for short distance migrants guilds. Our results highlight the critical role of canopy structure, including its horizontal and vertical distribution and variation, in predicting avian diversity, as measured by the mean number of detected modes (num_detectedmodes), the standard deviation of foliage height diversity (FHD), num_detectedmodes, canopy cover, and plant area index (PAI) across the spatial extents centered on BBS routes. Therefore, we recommend incorporating the GEDI metrics into avian diversity modeling and mapping across North America, thereby potentially enhancing bird habitat management and conservation efforts.

On the identity of the Afrotropical species of Mallota Meigen (Diptera: Syrphidae)

The Afrotropical hoverflies belonging to the genus Mallota Meigen, 1822 (Diptera: Syrphidae) are revised. Ten species are recognized, of which four are new to science: Mallota glabra sp. nov., M. hircus sp. nov., M. wyatti sp. nov. and M. stipulata sp. nov. Merodon edentulus Macquart, 1855 is considered a junior synonym of Eristalis dasyops Wiedemann, 1819. Lectotypes are designated for Eristalis dasyops, Merodon edentulus, Mallota pachymera Bezzi, 1915 and Helophilus extremus Loew, 1858. The taxonomic history of the placement and identity of the different species of Mallota is presented. Their relationships, as well as affiliations with Afrotropical representatives of the genera Eristalis Latreille, 1804 and Myathropa Rondani, 1845, is briefly discussed based on morphological and DNA barcode data.

Morphological and Morphometric Parameters of the Liver of Newborn Male Rabbits Alexander

Introduction. At present, the study of age-related issues of the liver structure in animals is one of the most important objectives of morphology, since liver diseases occupy one of the leading places among the nosologies causing death of newborn animals, in particular rabbits. At the same time, although the data on the micromorphological structure of the digestive tract of rabbits is extensive, the data on the age-related anatomy of the liver in the animals under study is scarce in the available literature. The aim of the paper is to determine the morphofunctional features of the liver of newborn male rabbits.Materials and Methods. The objects of the study were newborn male rabbits of the “butterfly” breed (n=9), who had no deviations in development and constitution. To establish the anatomical and topographic features and morphometric parameters of the liver of the animals under study, the standard anatomical dissection, Pirogov's cuts, macromorphometric and statistical research methods were used.Results. It has been established that the liver of newborn male rabbits of “butterfly” breed has segmental nature, the caudate process is large, distinct from the other lobes. The papillary process is oval in shape, poorly developed, adjacent to the lesser curvature of the stomach. The quadrate and right lobes of the liver are well developed, and the left lobes are less developed, which entails the horizontal position of the organ. The ligamentous attachments of the liver are well developed. A round ligament of liver (ligamentum teres hepatis) with fetal hepatic vessels can be distinguished. The linear and weight parameters of the liver are characterised by the small absolute and large relative values. The liver index is inversely proportional to the body weight of an animal and is 5.91.Discussion and Conclusion. The obtained morphological and morphometric data is aimed at establishing the standard liver parameters of the clinically healthy newborn male rabbits of the “butterfly” breed. The liver boundaries have been defined taking into account the length, width, thickness parameters of each lobe separately. The organ topography has been defined including the skeletotopy, holotopy and syntopy of the individual lobes and processes of the liver.

Towards an open and integrated cyberinfrastructure for river morphology research in the big data era

The objective of this paper is to present the initial illustration of a cyberinfrastructure named the RIver MORPHology Information System (RIMORPHIS) that addresses the current limitations related to river morphology data and tools. RIMORPHIS is supported by a data model for storing river morphology data. A new specification for data and semantics on river morphology datasets has been developed to support the web-based platform for discovering and visualization of river morphology data. Several geoprocessing tools are developed that enable scientific analysis and practical studies, including the coordinate transformation, cross-section generation and bathymetry mesh generation. Our vision for RIMORPHIS is to create a self-sustained community platform with tools to support scientific discoveries on river morphology and to enable multidisciplinary research for riverine environments. To accomplish this vision, we created a community to gather input and build partnerships. The RIMORPHIS cyberinfrastructure addresses the community needs related to data access, processing and visualization. The current implementation of RIMORPHIS is scalable for new data and tools.

First records of Glyphus marsupialis Filhol, 1884 (Decapoda: Pasiphaeidae) in southwestern Atlantic deep waters and extensions of the known distribution of two Pasiphaea species

The Pasiphaeidae Dana, 1852 are a marine shrimp family occurring in both shallow and deeper waters, with its greatest diversity occurring in tropical and subtropical deep seas. This family includes seven genera and 104 species, and is globally distributed. Currently, the genus Pasiphaea Savigny, 1816 includes 73 species, seven of them recorded in the southwestern Atlantic. The genus Glyphus Filhol, 1884 is monotypic and is known from the Indo-Pacific region, the East Pacific Ocean and in the Eastern Atlantic. Herein, we report the first record of the genus in the southwestern Atlantic, completing a cosmopolitan distributional pattern. Further, two new records of Pasiphaea species are commented upon (P. major Hayashi, 2006; P. tarda Kroyer, 1845) along the Northern coastline of the Brazilian coast (Amapá state), also reporting a new host interaction between Thalassomyces sp. and P. major. This is the first record of this Ellobiopsidae genus in the South Atlantic Ocean. The material herein analyzed was sampled by the ReviZEE Program/North, in 1996/2001, during deep-water trawls in the Amazonian slope (Amapá state), at depths from 250 to 1100 m. All material is deposited in the Coleção Carcinológica do Laboratório de Crustáceos (Labcrus)/Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (UFRA). The global distribution of Glyphus is commonly observed in deep species and although it has been occasionally contested by the discovery of species complexes (using very detailed morphological and molecular data analyses) with the currently available information, the present material is clearly identifiable as G. marsupialis.

Aortic Aneurysm with and without Dissection and Concomitant Atherosclerosis-Differences in a Retrospective Study.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm is a latent disease with a high risk of death. Today, as data are accumulating, an estimation of the differences in thoracic aneurysm in men and women of different age groups is required. The present study evaluated the type of atherosclerotic aortic lesions in males and females at different ages regarding the presence or absence of aortic dissection. A retrospective analysis of clinical and morphological data of 43 patients with thoracic aortic aneurysm was carried out. Patients were divided into groups based on the presence or absence of thoracic aneurysm dissection. Our results of a comparative analysis of the age of study participants showed that patients with aneurysm dissection were younger than patients without dissection. In the subgroup of patients with aortic dissection, the mean age was 50.6 years old, and in patients without aortic dissection, the mean age was 55.0 years old. When conducting a frequency analysis using Fisher's exact test, it was found that in men and women aneurysm dissection was not associated with atherosclerotic lesions of the aorta. In women and men, aneurysm dissection was not associated with stage of atherosclerotic lesions of the aorta regardless of age; no statistically significant differences were found between the groups with and without aneurysm dissection (p > 0.05). Dissection of the thoracic aneurysm developed in the absence of severe atherosclerosis of the thoracic aorta. Only 18.6% men and women possessed atherosclerotic plaques of types IV and V.

Assessing the Adequacy of Morphological Models using Posterior Predictive Simulations.

Reconstructing the evolutionary history of different groups of organisms provides insight into how life originated and diversified on Earth. Phylogenetic trees are commonly used to estimate this evolutionary history. Within Bayesian phylogenetics a major step in estimating a tree is in choosing an appropriate model of character evolution. While the most common character data used is molecular sequence data, morphological data remains a vital source of information. The use of morphological characters allows for the incorporation fossil taxa, and despite advances in molecular sequencing, continues to play a significant role in neontology. Moreover, it is the main data source that allows us to unite extinct and extant taxa directly under the same generating process. We therefore require suitable models of morphological character evolution, the most common being the Mk Lewis model. While it is frequently used in both palaeobiology and neontology, it is not known whether the simple Mk substitution model, or any extensions to it, provide a sufficiently good description of the process of morphological evolution. In this study we investigate the impact of different morphological models on empirical tetrapod data sets. Specifically, we compare unpartitioned Mk models with those where characters are partitioned by the number of observed states, both with and without allowing for rate variation across sites and accounting for ascertainment bias. We show that the choice of substitution model has an impact on both topology and branch lengths, highlighting the importance of model choice. Through simulations, we validate the use of the model adequacy approach, posterior predictive simulations, for choosing an appropriate model. Additionally, we compare the performance of model adequacy with Bayesian model selection. We demonstrate how model selection approaches based on marginal likelihoods are not appropriate for choosing between models with partition schemes that vary in character state space (i.e., that vary in Q-matrix state size). Using posterior predictive simulations, we found that current variations of the Mk model are often performing adequately in capturing the evolutionary dynamics that generated our data. We do not find any preference for a particular model extension across multiple data sets, indicating that there is no 'one size fits all' when it comes to morphological data and that careful consideration should be given to choosing models of discrete character evolution. By using suitable models of character evolution, we can increase our confidence in our phylogenetic estimates, which should in turn allow us to gain more accurate insights into the evolutionary history of both extinct and extant taxa.

A Semi-Detailed Survey of Soils in the City of Jaboatão dos Guararapes – PE

The economic development of the city of Jaboatão dos Guararapes was generated spontaneously without considering the land use capacity or its position in the landscape. Due to the occupation and intensive disordered use of the city pedological coverage, there have been mass movements that have caused economic and social losses. These can be resized based on the understanding of the pedological aspects inherent to the city. The objective of the present paper was to map the soils of the city area at a semi-detailed level. For this purpose, different toposequences were used, with soil examinations at a rate of 1 for every 2.75 km², totaling 94 points. The mapping and taxonomic classification of soils were made in accordance with standards, procedures and criteria adopted by Embrapa Soils. Based on the morphological data, locations were defined for soil description and sampling, totaling 14 soil profiles. 15 soil classes were identified, and 23 mapping units were defined, which highlighted the notable role of the source material in the distribution of the city's pedological properties. The mapping units that require greater care for use are: a) in hill environments - PAdr1, PVAd1 and PVd; and b) in the fluvial-marine plains – EKu1, EKu2 and GXbd2. The expansion of urban areas must consider the type of soil and the behavior of the material, especially during the rainy season, in order to minimize risks and adverse losses.

Taxonomy and evolution of the Canarian Issus Fabricius, 1803 (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Issidae) based on morphological and molecular data

AbstractThe genus Issus Fabricius, 1803 is divided into nine groups of species according to the structure of male genitalia. Phylogenetic position of the Canarian species of the genus is inferred with Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood analyses of four gene markers (COI, H3, CytB, 16S) dataset. Results revealed a well-supported basal dichotomy of the genus into two clades, corresponding to the Mediterranean and the Canarian species. This confirms the monophyly of the Canarian complex of Issus species which is divided into four clades corresponding to I. canariensis, I. rarus, I. bimaculatus, and I. hidipus groups of species. Our results contradict a previously published opinion on the primitiveness of the Canarian species, instead confirming the advanced position of this group. Issus canalaurisi Sergel, 1986 is placed in synonymy under I. cagola Remane, 1985, and I. maderensis Lindberg, 1954 – under I. climacus Fieber, 1876. Issus hidipus Remane 1985 is recorded for the first time from La Gomera and Tenerife Islands, I. padipus Remane 1985 – from El Hierro Island, and I. cagola – from Tenerife Island.

Using 2D U-Net convolutional neural networks for automatic acetabular and proximal femur segmentation of hip MRI images and morphological quantification: a preliminary study in DDH

BackgroundDevelopmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a common pediatric orthopedic condition characterized by varying degrees of acetabular dysplasia and hip dislocation. Current 2D imaging methods often fail to provide sufficient anatomical detail for effective treatment planning, leading to higher rates of misdiagnosis and missed diagnoses. MRI, with its advantages of being radiation-free, multi-planar, and containing more anatomical information, can provide the crucial morphological and volumetric data needed to evaluate DDH. However, manual techniques for measuring parameters like the center–edge angle (CEA) and acetabular index (AI) are time-consuming. Automating these processes is essential for accurate clinical assessments and personalized treatment strategies.MethodsThis study employed a U-Net-based CNN model to automate the segmentation of hip MRI images in children. The segmentation process was validated using a leave-one-out method during training. Subsequently, the segmented hip joint images were utilized in clinical settings to perform automated measurements of key angles: AI, femoral neck angle (FNA), and CEA. This automated approach aimed to replace manual measurements and provide an objective reference for clinical assessments.ResultsThe U-Net-based network demonstrates high effectiveness in hip segmentation compared to manual radiologist segmentations. In test data, it achieves average DSC values of 0.9109 (acetabulum) and 0.9244 (proximal femur), with a 91.76% segmentation success rate. The average ASD values are 0.3160 mm (acetabulum) and 0.6395 mm (proximal femur) in test data, with Ground Truth (GT) edge points and predicted segmentation maps having a mean distance of less than 1 mm. Using automated segmentation models for clinical hip angle measurements (CEA, AI, FNA) shows no statistical difference compared to manual measurements (p > 0.05).ConclusionUtilizing U-Net-based image segmentation and automated measurement of morphological parameters significantly enhances the accuracy and efficiency of DDH assessment. These methods improve precision in automatic measurements and provide an objective basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment of DDH.

Chronological events unfolding the vegetative and floral phenology of apical bud in Crocus sativus.

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is an infertile perennial geophyte considered the most expensive spice in the world. Seasonal fluctuations and climate change have significant impact on the growth, development, and yield of saffron stigma, which is the economically valued part of plant. The stigma being part of the flower, the knowledge of phenotypic transition from dormant apical bud up to flowering is vital, yet, not explored properly. The complexity of flowering in C. sativus further accentuates by the lack of clear demarcation between flowering and non-flowering corms in terms of weight and sizes, as small corms are known to be vegetative only, while large ones produce flower. Therefore, chronological phenotyping on a weekly and quarterly basis of apical shoot and flowering primordia between June and October was carried out to understand the organogenesis sequentially. In large corms, the stamen was the first floral organ to initiate followed by the formation of tepal from the base of the stamen. The plants exhibited both synanthous and hysteranthous flowering. Untargeted metabolome analysis of dormant apical bud just before dormancy break from flowering buds from large corms as well as non-flowering buds from small corms identified the presence of many differentially accumulated metabolites including sphingosine and meglutol. Key metabolites such as phytosphingosine, 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaric acid, 3-acetamidopropanal, 6-hydroxykynurenic acid, D-serine, and 1-D-myo-inositol 3-phosphate were also detected having associated with isoprenoid biosynthesis, lignin pathway regulation, and carbohydrate metabolism that participates in flowering. The integration of morphological, histological, and metabolomic data offers a comprehensive view of the flowering process that can be utilised in future biotechnological interventions in C. sativus.

The importance of integrating phycological research, teaching, outreach, and engagement in a changing world.

The ecological, evolutionary, economic, and cultural importance of algae necessitates a continued integration of phycological research, education, outreach, and engagement. Here, we comment on several topics discussed during a networking workshop-Algae and the Environment-that brought together phycological researchers from a variety of institutions and career stages. We share some of our perspectives on the state of phycology by examining gaps in teaching and research. We identify action areas where we urge the phycological community to prepare itself to embrace the rapidly changing world. We emphasize the need for more trained taxonomists as well as integration with molecular techniques, which may be expensive and complicated but are important. An essential benefit of these integrative studies is the creation of high-quality algal reference barcoding libraries augmented with morphological, physiological, and ecological data that are important for studies of systematics and crucial for the accuracy of the metabarcoding bioassessment. We highlight different teaching approaches for engaging undergraduate students in algal studies and the importance of algal field courses, forays, and professional phycological societies in supporting the algal training of students, professionals, and citizen scientists.

Synthesis and investigation of the optical characteristics of RE3+ activated Ca2Li2Si2O7 (Rare earth = Eu, Tb) phosphor for W-LED application

Novel Eu3+ and Tb3+ ions-doped Ca2Li2Si2O7 luminescent materials were prepared by a low-temperature solid-state reaction technique for LED application. The electronic transitions of 5D0 → 7F2 (Eu3+) and 5D4 → 7F5 (Tb3+) have caused the luminescent material to exhibit strong luminosity in 613 nm (red) and 545 nm (green), respectively. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra were applied for the identification of functional groups, and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used for structural analysis. Morphological data was gathered using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Its color was also determined by calculating the CIE coordinates. The excitation, PL properties, and luminescence decay time of the emission transitions of Eu3+ (5D0 → 7F2) and Tb3+ (5D4 → 7F5) were measured in order to analyze luminosity spectra.

Two names, one species: redescription and phylogenetic position of Schrankiana formosula Freitas, 1959 provides new insights into the evolutionary history of the Cosmocercidae.

Schrankiana are gastrointestinal parasites of anurans, distributed throughout Central and South America. Schrankiana formosula and Schrankiana inconspicata are some of the most commonly reported species parasitising anurans from Brazil, and the morphological differences between them are unclear. In the present study, we redescribed S. formosula based on a re-examination of type series and newly collected material from the frog Leptodactylus pentadactylus in the state of Amapá, Brazil. Additionally, we re-examined the type series of S. inconspicata, and propose it as a junior synonym of S. formosula. We provide detailed morphological and morphometric data with intraspecific variation analyses and new molecular data for S. formosula. In the present phylogeny, S. formosula formed a well-supported clade with Raillietnema sp. and Labeonema synodontisi. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses and some morphological similarities, our findings support the hypothesis that Schrankiana is a member of the family Cosmocercidae, not Atractidae. Additionally, we provide the first ultrastructural descriptions of S. formosula, and establish the species' phylogenetic position from the Cosmocercidae.