Rhinoxenus (Dactylogyridae) parasitizing piranhas (Serrasalmidae) at its southernmost limit of distribution (Paraná River, Argentina), with the description of two new species

Abstract Abstract: Three piranha species, Serrasalmus maculatus, S. marginatus and Pygocentrus nattereri, living sympatrically in the lower Paraná River (Argentina) were examined searching for nasal monogeneans to know its diversity and distribution. Four species of monogeneans belonging to Rhinoxenus were found parasitizing the nasal cavities. Two new species are described, and new morphological data of 2 previously described species is provided. Rhinoxenus argentinensis n. sp. is characterized by having the male copulatory organ (MCO) as a coiled tube with a reel shaped-base; an elongated a...