Biogeographical patterns in endoparasite communities of a marine fish (Sebastes capensis Gmelin) with extended range in the Southern Hemisphere

Aim The endoparasites of Sebastes capensis Gmelin are examined over most of its geographical range (coasts of Peru, Chile, Argentina and South Africa) to determine: (1) whether the endoparasite communities of this fish show zoogeographical patterns; and (2) if so, whether there are any relationships between spatial variations in the endoparasite fauna and known zoogeographical patterns for marine free‐living organisms (e.g. prey that are included in the life cycles of endoparasites). Location Fish were captured at nine localities along the Pacific coast of South America, from 11° S in the centre of the Peruvian coast, to 52° S in southern Chile, and also at two localities in the Atlantic Ocean, at 43° S in Argentina, and 34° S in South Africa. Methods From April to September 2003 and April to August 2004, 626 fish were captured. Endoparasites and diet were examined following traditional methods. Cluster analyses were used to evaluate the distribution patterns of the endoparasite communities, and to evaluate similarities in the prey composition per locality. Results The endoparasite fauna of S. capensis consisted of four species widely distributed along the Pacific coast: Ascarophis cf. sebastodis, Anisakis sp., Corynosoma australe, and Pseudopecoelus sp. Other parasites were distributed only in some geographical areas. The species richness of the parasite communities increased with latitude along the Pacific coast, while parasite communities from Argentina and South Africa showed low species richness. Cluster analyses based on endoparasite composition and on prey composition grouped localities in a way consistent with known biogeographical areas for marine free‐living organisms. Main conclusions The endoparasites of S. capensis exhibit a pattern associated with known biogeographical areas for free‐living organisms. The latitudinal increase in endoparasite community richness is associated with changes in prey composition (intermediate hosts) and also possibly with the presence of definitive hosts. Therefore, the biogeographical patterns of prey are considered key determinants of the endoparasite community structure of the host.     

A redescription of the large geophilid centipede Chilenophilus corralinus (Attems, 1903) (Myriapoda: Chilopoda: Geophilomorpha), with new distribution records from southern Chile

The little known geophilomorph centipede Chilenophilus corralinus (Attems, 1903) (Myriapoda: Chilopoda, Geophilidae), a large geophilid species from South America is herein redescribed and illustrated based on new specimens collected in the Andes of Southern Chile. New morphological features of specific value are also given for the taxon. Chilenophilus corralinus is reported for the first time from the following Chilean localities: Region XIV (de Los Ríos region): Valdivia province: Pirihueico; camping “La Herradura”; Mafil. Region X (de Los Lagos region): Chiloé province: Chiloé Island. Llanquihue province: Parque Nacional Alerce Andino. Palena province: Hualaihué; Chaitén; Palena; Futaleufú.