A monograph of genus Spathula (Platyhelminthes : Turbellaria : Tricladida)

Abstract

The genus Spathula is reinstated as a valid genus within the family Dugesiidae of the freshwater planarians, and is redefined. The validity of the type species, S. limicola, is confirmed and it is removed from synonymy with S. schauinslandi. The three described species, including the type, are redescribed from extant material, and six new species, one from New Zealand and five from southeastern Australia, are described. The genus now includes blind species, either pigmented or unpigmented, and two of the new species are together unique within the aquatic triclads for their possession of two pairs of anterior ciliated pits. The comparative anatomy and histology of the members of this Austrahshn genus are discussed, and the monograph conc!udes with some phy!ogenetic and biogeographical considerations.