Integrative taxonomic approach to the cryptic diversity of Diplostomum spp. in lymnaeid snails from Europe with a focus on the 'Diplostomum mergi' species complex
Background Recent molecular studies have discovered substantial unrecognised diversity within the genus Diplostomum in fish populations in Europe and North America including three species complexes. However, data from the first intermediate host populations are virtually lacking. This study addresses the application of an integrative taxonomic approach to the cryptic species diversity of Diplostomum spp. in natural lymnaeid snail populations in Europe with a focus on the ‘D. mergi’ species complex.