The systematics of the genus Trichinella with a key to species

The authors review the major biological, biochemical, and molecular charact ers that are used to distinguish the seven Trichinella species (T. spiralis , T. nativa, T. britovi, T. pseudospiralis, T. murrelli, T. nelsoni, T. pap uae) and three genotypes whose taxonomic status is yet uncertain (T-6, T-8, T-9). A comparison of host specificity, morphology, reproductive abilities , nurse cell development and freeze resistance is presented, along with use ful biochemical and molecular markers. Finally, this information is used to construct a diagnostic key for the species. A phylogenetic classification of the species is needed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserve d.