Phylogenetic study of some Aporrectodea species based on molecular markers

The Nicodrilus genus is not accepted in the nomenclature according to ICZN; Aporrectodea term is used. However, according to Bouché, Aporrectodea and Allolobophora genera are not homogeneous and are supposed as polyphyletic genera. The aim is to study the phylogenetic structure of Aporrectodea genus in order to verify its cladistic nature and its taxonomical validity. In this work, five species, belonging to the Aporrectodea genus, as the most common in France are studied. First, we use usual morphological characteristics to identify each species. Species life history traits are included among morphological characteristics (e.g. clitellum, puberculum and pores position, Morren’s gland, body size...). Then, we pursue a molecular approach on individuals sampled in France. Molecular phylogenetic analyses are based on the sequences of nuclear (rDNA 28S) and mitochondrial (COI, rDNA 16S) gene regions and performed with maximum likelihood and bayesian inference. Phylogenetic analyses revealed two deep sister clades, Aporrectodea caliginosa species complex in one hand, and A. giardi, A. longa and A. nocturna in the other hand. The status of A. nocturna is recognized instead of A. longa and A. giardi ones. Our study cannot confirm the validity of Aporrectodea genus but highlights different lineages within species such as A. longa and A. caliginosa. Markers characterization ensures a molecular genotyping in lumbricids and begins to reveal intra-specific variabilities degrees unsuspected.