Building Parametric Systems for Ascotoracida and Myzostomida Taхa: Current Problems and Ways to Solve Them

Abstract

Based on the detailed studying of the available literature on two incertae sedis marine taxa, namely Ascothoracida crustaceans and Myzostomida worms, differences in the structures of the commonly known systems for these taxa have been analyzed. As a result of the analysis, we have identified characteristics and features that can be used to build their parametric systems. Using the parametric approach in systematics makes it possible to predict characteristics and features at the generic and species levels that have not been yet described, outline the existing tendencies and ways of further evolution of such taxa, review ranks and degrees of relationship between certain subordinate groups, and add such groups to the hierarchal system of taxa with a different set of characteristics of the taxonomic space. The minimum prerequisite is complete diagnosis of all used taxa covering the entire spectrum of necessary diagnostic characteristics. The existing tradition of using incomplete diagnoses poses challenges for achieving the set objective. To analyze the taxonomic systems of Ascothoracida and Myzostomida, we have used the method of taxonometric analysis based on J.C. Willis's principle with L.L. Chislenko's corrections, A.N. Golikov's law, and Whewell's law along with parametric visualization of the taxon system's form. The application of the above tools to the given data has made it possible to demonstrate that these taxa are insufficiently studied and that they are not developed as complete biological systems.

Keywords

• parametric system
• incertae sedis
• ascothoracida
• myzostomida
• taxonomic space
• taxonomic prediction
• taxonomic analysis