Morphological and molecular characterisation of Hoplolaimus smokyensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Hoplolaimidae), a lance nematode from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA

Researchers have identified and characterized Hoplolaimus smokyensis n. sp., a new species of lance nematode found in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA. This discovery was made through detailed morphological and molecular analysis, revealing distinct features such as six (occasionally five) labial annules with 24 longitudinal striae on the basal lip, robust tulip-shaped stylet knobs, and a unique lateral field structure. Genetic comparisons of ribosomal and mitochondrial DNA confirmed its distinction from related species, while phylogenetic analyses placed it in a separate lineage within the Hoplolaimus genus. The study highlights the biodiversity of nematodes in protected areas and provides new insights into their taxonomic diversity.

Ma, X., Robbins, Robert T., Bernard, Ernest C., Holguin, Claudia M., & Agudelo, P. (2019). Morphological and molecular characterisation of Hoplolaimus smokyensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Hoplolaimidae), a lance nematode from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA. Nematology, 21(9), 923–935. https://doi.org/10.1163/15685411-00003266