A taxonomic analysis of the Haplotaxidae (Annelida, Oligochaeta)

Abstract

A combination of classical and computer-aided methods suggests that the Haplotaxidae can now be divided into several genera. Alphadrilus nov.gen. is monotypic for Alphadrilus smithii n.comb. Delaya nov.gen. contains D. bureschi, D. leruthi, D. corbarensis, D. cantabronensis, and D. navarrensis, all n.comb. Adenodrilus is retained for A. denticulatus, Heterochaetella for H. glandularis, and Villiersia for V. guanivora. The new genus Hologynus nov.gen. is erected for H. ornamentus and H. hologynus and its probable synonyms. Haplotaxis is retained for the gordioides-like species with specialized pharynx and chaetae associated with a predaceous habit. Pelodrilus is retained for P. violaceus and perhaps P. ignatovi and P. africanus (incertae sedis) and its probable synonyms. Tiguassu is elevated to the status of the type of a new family, Tiguassidae. Metataxis sensu Omodeo is placed incertae sedis in the order Lumbricina.