Genus Discolaimium
Thorne, 1939
Dorylaiminae. Predacious. Body rather cylindrical
from anus to middle of neck. Cuticle marked by easily visible transverse
striae. Lip region discoid, set off by deep constriction, of almost
the same width as the adjecent head which is about one-half as wide as
the neck base. An inner circlet of six rounded liplets about the
vestibule. Guiding ring of spear far forward in pharynx, like that
of Discolaimus. Lateral cords with a conspicuous series of
gland-like organs. Anterior portion of esophagus very slender, without
visible radial musculature, frequently set off by a slight constriction.
Posterior portion of esophagus cylindrical, frequently with a sheath-like
membrane about its base. Dorsal esophageal gland located about one
body width behind the esophageal constriction with its outlet distinctly
farther forward than that of Discolaimus. Vulva a small, transverse
slit, the labia lacking the inner cuticularization found in Dorylaimus.
Vagina extending one-fourth to one-third across the body, refractive, subspherical.
Ovaries two in all known species. Spicula and supplements dorylaimoid.
Type species: Discolaimium cylindricum Thorne,
1939.
Diagnosis: Dorylaiminae with the above general description.
The genus differs from Discolaimus, its most closely related genus,
in that the lip region is not wider than the adjacent neck, the anterior
esophagus is more slender and without visible musculature and sometimes
set off by constriction and the pore of the dorsal esophageal gland is
located somewhat farther forward.
(Description- Thorne, 1939)
Specimens from Costa Rica
?Discolaimium
sp. (1)