Parasitology, Harold W. Manter Laboratory of
Date of this Version
6-1999
Abstract
The Eucestoda is particularly relevant for questions concerning reproductive investment in male gametes because no other parasitic group displays such diversity in testis size and number within and among species. This diversity has long been used as a valuable taxonomic character, but few researchers have ever investigated its evolutionary significance. In this paper we investigate the evolution of testis number and size within Rhinebothroides (Platyhelminthes: Eucestoda). Our comparative, phylogenetic analysis revealed that overall allocation to male functions, as measured by relative testicular area, does not change within the clade, even though the packaging of that investment in numerous testes is highly variable within, and diverse among, members of the group.
Comments
Published in the Journal of Parasitology (June 1999) 85(3): 540-544. Copyright 1999, the American Society of Parasitologists. Used by permission.