A new genus for the overlooked Creptotrema funduli (Digenea: Allocreadiidae) based on morphological and molecular...

Creptotrema funduli Mueller, 1934, has long presented an uncertain systematic position within the family Allocreadiidae. Previous phylogenetic analyses based on partial 28S rDNA sequences recovered this species as distinct from other members of Creptotrema, suggesting that its current generic placement may not reflect its evolutionary relationships. In the present study, we re-evaluate the taxonomic status of C. funduli through an integrative approach combining morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses based on 28S rDNA sequences. Our results consistently recover C. funduli outside the clade containing species currently assigned to Creptotrema. In addition, several morphological traits distinguish this species from congeners, supporting its recognition as a separate evolutionary lineage within Allocreadiidae. Based on these findings, we propose a new genus to accommodate C. funduli. The new genus is compared with closely related genera within Allocreadiidae, particularly those with one pair of oral lobes like Creptotrema. Our results highlight the need for continued taxonomic revision within the family and illustrate the value of integrating molecular and morphological evidence in resolving the systematics of allocreadiid trematodes.