Currently, the genus Zenopsis, also known as silver John Dory, comprises at least five valid species with a wide range of distribution. However, recent studies have proposed the existence of a new Zenopsis species inhabiting the Indian Ocean, and a preliminary search in the Barcode of Life Database reveals the presence of different barcode index numbers (BIN) for the nominal species Zenopsis conchifer. In the Southwest Atlantic Ocean (SWA), Z. conchifer is the only species reported so far. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate, at the molecular level, the potential taxonomic diversity within the genus Zenopsis and to assess if the species occurring in the SWA corresponds with Z. conchifer. Using data available in worldwide genetic databases, a maximum likelihood tree, a BIN, and an automatic barcode gap discovery analysis were carried out. Additionally, specimens sampled from the SWA were morphologically compared with specimens from different parts of its distribution using available data. The specific identity at the molecular level of specimens occurring in the SWA was confirmed as Z. conchifer. The results of the molecular analysis highlight the existence of hidden specific diversity within the genus.

Intracellular pathogens such as Neospora caninum, Brucella abortus, and Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) are major contributors to bovine abortions, yet many cases remain without a definitive etiological diagnosis despite inflammatory evidence. This study aimed to characterize the immune response in bovine fetuses aborted due to these intracellular agents, comparing them with fetuses showing inflammatory lesions of probable infectious origin and with negative controls. We analyzed cytokine expression (IFN-γ, TNFα, IL-4, IL-8, IL-12) and haptoglobin levels in mid- and late-gestation fetuses. Mid-gestation fetuses infected with intracellular agents exhibited elevated IFN-γ and IL-8 expressions, suggesting a Th1-type immune response, while late-gestation fetuses showed decreased of these cytokines, indicating a shift toward a Th2-type response. Probable infectious abortions at late gestation also showed downregulation of IFN-γ. No significant differences were observed in TNF-α and IL-12 expressions. Additionally, haptoglobin levels were lower in mid-gestation infected fetuses compared to controls. These findings highlight gestational age-dependent immune modulation in response to intracellular infections and suggest that other unidentified pathogens may contribute to abortions with inflammatory lesions but no confirmed etiology. This study enhances our understanding of fetal immune responses in bovine abortions and may support improved diagnostic approaches for reproductive losses in cattle.