[Cnidaria • 2026] Rhytisma acoronatum, R. calyaceum, R. karibu, ... • Phylogenomics-guided Revision of the Genus Rhytisma Alderslade, 2000 (Octocorallia: Malacalcyonacea: Lemnaliidae), with Descriptions of Six New Sspecies

 

(a, b) Rhytisma karibu sp. nov., 

(c, d) R. acoronatum sp. nov. 

(e, f) R. oblongum sp. nov.

 (c) R. inaequale sp. nov., with expanded polyps 

(d) R. calyaceum sp. nov., with partially expanded polyps 

(e) R. sperkolae sp. nov., polyps partly expanded

Samimi-Namin, Benayahu, Durkin, Ekins, Quattrini & McFadden, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.1071/IS25068 

Photographs by Y. Benayahu, and M. Ekins.

 

The genus Rhytisma Alderslade, 2000 (Octocorallia: Malacalcyonacea: Lemnaliidae), formerly comprising four nominal species (R. fulvum, R. fuscum, R. monticulum and R. rubiginosum), is revised using an integrative approach. We combine morphological and phylogenomic data for newly collected and historical specimens. A neotype is designated for R. fulvum and a lectotype for R. fuscum to stabilise the application of these names. Six new species are described from the Indo-Pacific: R. acoronatum sp. nov., R. calyaceum sp. nov., R. oblongum sp. nov., R. inaequale sp. nov., R. karibu sp. nov. and R. sperkolae sp. nov. Species delimitation is supported by discrete combinations of morphological characters – particularly those of the tentacle and polyp sclerites – as well as multi-locus DNA barcoding and phylogenomic analyses of conserved elements (UCE and exon loci). Our findings highlight the diagnostic value of tentacle sclerites and reveal extensive species-level diversity that was previously obscured by insufficient morphological examination. The revised genus currently comprises 10 valid species, many of which display restricted geographic distributions, reflecting patterns of regional endemism in Indo-Pacific octocoral assemblages. These results underscore the importance of integrative taxonomy in uncovering hidden biodiversity.

 

Keywords: biogeography, DNA barcoding, endemism, Indo-Pacific, integrative taxonomy, neotype, soft corals, species delimitation, taxonomic revision, ultraconserved elements

Underwater images of Rhytisma species in their respective type localities.
(a, b) Rhytisma fulvum yellow colour and grey colour morphs, polyps partly expanded
(c) R. inaequale sp. nov., with expanded polyps (d) R. calyaceum sp. nov., with partially expanded polyps
(e) R. sperkolae sp. nov., mat morphology reflects underlying irregular reef substrate, polyps partly expanded. (f) R. monticulum with expanded polyps.

Photographs by (a–c, e) Y. Benayahu, (d, f) M. Ekins.

Underwater images of Rhytisma species in their respective type localities.
(a, b) Rhytisma karibu sp. nov., growing on seagrass blades and reef substrate (c, d) R. acoronatum sp. nov. (e, f) R. oblongum sp. nov. 

Photographs by (a, b, e, f) Y. Benayahu, and (c, d) M. Ekins.

Rhytisma acoronatum sp. nov., R. calyaceum sp. nov., 

R. oblongum sp. nov., R. inaequale sp. nov., 

R. karibu sp. nov. and R. sperkolae sp. nov. 

Kaveh Samimi-Namin, Yehuda Benayahu, Kathleen M. Durkin, Merrick Ekins, Andrea M. Quattrini and Catherine S. McFadden. 2026. Phylogenomics-guided Revision of the Genus Rhytisma Alderslade, 2000 (Octocorallia: Malacalcyonacea: Lemnaliidae), with Descriptions of Six New Sspecies. Invertebr Syst. 40(3); IS25068. DOI: doi.org/10.1071/IS25068   [30 March 2026]

[Cnidaria • 2025] Iridogorgia curva & I. chewbacca • Unexpected Diversity of the Genus Iridogorgia in the tropical western Pacific with Descriptions of Two New Species [Studies on western Pacific Gorgonians (Anthozoa: Octocorallia: Chrysogorgiidae). Part 2]

 

Iridogorgia chewbacca 

Y. Xu, Watling, Zhan & K. Xu, 2025

  

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5689.3.3 

manoa.hawaii.edu

Abstract

Species of the genus Iridogorgia Verrill, 1883 are typical deep-sea organisms, characterized by monopodial and spiral axis with a brilliant iridescence. Utilizing an integrated morphological-molecular approach, twelve specimens of Iridogorgia obtained from the tropical western and central Pacific were described as two new species I. curva sp. nov. and I. chewbacca sp. nov., and four known species. Additionally, I. fontinalis Watling, 2007 and I. splendens Watling, 2007 are two new recorded species in the Western Pacific Ocean. Iridogorgia verrucosa Xu, Zhan & Xu, 2021 and I. squarrosa Xu, Zhan, Li & Xu, 2020 are described again. There are currently fourteen species of Iridogorgia with twelve species in the Pacific. Among them, ten species were found in the tropical western Pacific, showing a high diversity. This study indicates the direction of growth (clockwise or counter-clockwise) is not a useful taxonomic character for Iridogorgia species identification. Phylogenetic analyses, based on both mtMutS-cox1 and 28S rDNA sequences, substantiated the taxonomic designation of the new species, I. chewbacca sp. nov. However, the mtMutS and mtMutS-cox1 showed very limited usefulness for species delimitation and inner relationship inference of most Iridogorgia species, while the 28S rDNA showed much higher level of genetic variation.

deep sea, morphology, phylogeny, seamount, taxonomy

Iridogorgia chewbacca 

YU XU, LES WATLING, ZIFENG ZHAN and KUIDONG XU. 2025. Studies on western Pacific Gorgonians (Anthozoa: Octocorallia: Chrysogorgiidae). Part 2: Unexpected Diversity of the Genus Iridogorgia in the tropical western Pacific with Descriptions of Two New Species. Zootaxa. 5689(3); 451-486. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5689.3.3  [2025-09-04]

Chewbacca coral: New deep-sea species spotted in waters off Hawai‘i, Mariana Trench

https://manoa.hawaii.edu/news/article.php?aId=14141

[Cnidaria • 2025] Neoanthomastus stellatus, Anthomastus sphaericus, Pseudoanthomastus ornatus, ... • Mushroom Soft Corals (Octocorallia: Coralliidae) From Seamounts in the Tropical Northwestern Pacific: Morphology and Phylogenetic Analysis Reveal a New Genus and Six New Species

 

Neoanthomastus stellatus gen. et sp. nov., N. elongatus gen. et sp. nov., 
Anthomastus sphaericus sp. nov., A. tongi sp. nov., 
Pseudoanthomastus ornatus sp. nov., and P. applanatus sp. nov.

Y. Li, J. Li & Xu, 2025 

DOI: doi.org/10.1155/jzs/4177670

Abstract

Mushroom soft corals in the subfamily Anthomastinae are among the most remarkable octocorals found in the deep sea, characterized by their capitate or mushroom-shaped red colonies and large autozooids. To date, their species diversity remains largely unknown due to limited research, and their phylogenetic relationships have yet to be explored. Based on samples collected from four seamounts in the tropical Northwestern Pacific, we establish a new genus and six new species within Anthomastinae: Neoanthomastus stellatus gen. et sp. nov., Neoanthomastus elongatus gen. et sp. nov., Anthomastus sphaericus sp. nov., Anthomastus tongi sp. nov., Pseudoanthomastus ornatus sp. nov., and Pseudoanthomastus applanatus sp. nov. We transfer four species of Anthomastus with the siphonozooids extending into the stalk to the new genus Neoanthomastus, and four additional species of Anthomastus to Pseudoanthomastus. A dichotomous key to all five known genera and 43 species of Anthomastinae is provided. Meanwhile, we utilize the concatenated nucleotides of 13 mitochondrial protein-coding genes (PCGs), the full-length coding regions of the mitochondrial MutS gene (mtMutS) and the barcodes of partial mtMutS to elucidate the phylogenetic relationships among all the five genera (Anthomastus, Bathyalcyon, Heteropolypus, Pseudoanthomastus, and Neoanthomastus gen. nov.) and available species of Anthomastinae. The phylogenetic trees constructed from the three types of sequences suggest a hierarchical relationship where Neoanthomastus gen. nov. and Pseudoanthomastus form a clade that clusters with Bathyalcyon, which in turn with Heteropolypus, and finally with Anthomastus, all with high nodal supports. We also identify a second species in octocorals that lack the unique mtMutS. The study reveals a high diversity of mushroom soft corals and underscores the need for further systematic and zoogeographic research.

Keywords: Anthomastus, Anthomastinae, deep sea, mitochondrial DNA, mtMutS, new taxa

Morphology of Neoanthomastus gen. nov. and six new species of Anthomastinae.
(A–C) A. sphaericus sp. nov., same specimen in situ (A) and in preservation (B, C). (D, E) A. tongi sp. nov. in situ and in preservation.
(F, G) N. stellatus gen. et sp. nov. in situ and in preservation. (H, I) N. elongatus gen. et sp. nov. in situ and in preservation.
(J–M) P. ornatus sp. nov., same specimen in situ (J) and in preservation (K–M), arrows indicate small autozooids of capitulum margin. (N–P) P. applanatus sp. nov., same specimen in situ (N, O) and in preservation (P). au, autozooids; o, oocytes; si, siphonozooids.

 Scale bars = 10 mm (B, C, E), 20 mm (G, I, K, M), 5 mm (L), and 50 mm (P).

 

Neoanthomastus stellatus gen. et sp. nov., N. elongatus gen. et sp. nov., 

Anthomastus sphaericus sp. nov., A. tongi sp. nov., 

Pseudoanthomastus ornatus sp. nov., and P. applanatus sp. nov. 

Yang Li, Junyuan Li, Kuidong Xu. 2025. Mushroom Soft Corals (Octocorallia: Coralliidae) From Seamounts in the Tropical Northwestern Pacific: Morphology and Phylogenetic Analysis Reveal a New Genus and Six New Species. Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research. DOI: doi.org/10.1155/jzs/4177670 [30 March 2025] 

[Crustacea • 2025] Gaillardiellus magiruber • A New Species of Gaillardiellus Guinot, 1976 (Brachyura: Xanthidae) from the coral reefs of the South China Sea

 

Gaillardiellus magiruber 

Yuan, Jiang & Sha, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1234.144026

Abstract

A new xanthid species of Gaillardiellus Guinot, 1976, is described from the coral reefs of the Xisha and Nansha Islands in the South China Sea. The new species, Gaillardiellus magiruber sp. nov., closely resembles G. rueppellii (Krauss, 1843) but can be distinguished mainly by its closer proximity of the outer orbital angle and anterolateral margin, which lacks an accessory lobe, a broader and non-protruding front, and notable differences in live coloration and size. Molecular analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) sequences further corroborates the validity of this new species. An updated identification key for Gaillardiellus is provided.

Key words: Actaeinae, COI, Gaillardiellus, identification key, morphology, new species, rock crabs, taxonomy

Gaillardiellus magiruber sp. nov., male holotype (5.9 × 4.4 mm) (MBM288133)
A dorsal view of cephalothorax B pleon and telson C outer view of right cheliped D right pereiopod 5 E right third maxilliped F dorsal view of left G1 distal part G ventral view of left G1 distal part H dorsal view of left G2 I ventral view of left G2 J dorsal view of left G1 K ventral view of left G1.

Scale bars: 1 mm (A–E); 0.2 mm (F, G); 0.5 mm (H–K).

Gaillardiellus magiruber sp. nov., male holotype (5.9 × 4.4 mm) (MBM288133)
A overall dorsal view B dorsal view of cephalothorax C frontal view of cephalothorax D thoracic sternites, pleon and telson E outer view of chelipeds. Scale bar: 1 mm.

Gaillardiellus magiruber sp. nov., live coloration
A, B female paratype (9.8 × 7.1 mm) (MBM288134) C female paratype (5.7 × 4.2 mm) (MBM288135). Scale bar: 5 mm.

Gaillardiellus magiruber sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Carapace (Figs 1A, B, 2A, 3A, B, 4A, B) transversely oval, regions clearly defined, short setae present within grooves and between granules, long setae scattered between granules; front not protruding, slightly curved downwards, divided into 2 lobes by broad V-shaped notch; anterolateral margin divided into 4 granular lobes, first lobe small, slightly larger than outer orbital angle, adjacent to latter; posterolateral margin shorter than anterolateral margin, distinctly concave. Thoracic sternum (Figs 1D, 3D) with low granules, sternites 1 to 4 covered with soft setae. Male pleonite 6 (Figs 1D, 2B) with expanded lateral distal angles, wider than long; telson wider than long, terminal end blunt. G1 (Fig. 2F, G, J, K) curved outwards, distal third with small spines, long setae near distal end, terminal lobe slender. Orange-red to vibrant bright red in life (Fig. 5).

Etymology. The new species is named after the fiery Stand “Magician’s Red” from the manga “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure”, wielded by the character Muhammad Avdol. This name alludes to the species’ changing flame-like red coloration.

YUAN Ziming, JIANG Wei and SHA Zhongli. 2025. A New Species of Gaillardiellus Guinot, 1976 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Xanthidae) from the coral reefs of the South China Sea. ZooKeys. 1234: 1-17. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1234.144026

[Cnidaria • 2025] Parasphaerasclera mcfaddenae • A New Soft Coral Species (Octocorallia: Scleralcyonacea: Parasphaerascleridae) from the Gulf of Mexico

 Parasphaerasclera mcfaddenae

Quattrini, Morrissey & McCartin, 2025.  

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5601.3.8

 

Abstract

A new species of soft coral, Parasphaerasclera mcfaddenae (Octocorallia: Scleralcyonacea: Parasphaerascleridae), is described from mesophotic hardbottom habitats of the Gulf of Mexico, western North Atlantic Ocean. Previously, this family was only known from the tropical Indo-Pacific and South Africa; therefore, we extend the distribution of the family Parasphaerascleridae into the North Atlantic Ocean. This diminutive species differs from other parasphaerasclerids by a capitate growth form, non-retractile polyps, and presence of tuberculated spindles. Notably, this species was also detected in environmental (e)DNA samples from locations where it was not physically collected, highlighting the importance of both eDNA for biodiversity surveys as well as specimen collections for building comprehensive reference databases for eDNA analyses.

Coelenterata, Parasphaerasclera, Scleralcyonacea, North Atlantic Ocean, eDNA, mesophotic reef

 Parasphaerasclera mcfaddenae sp.  nov. 
A) in situ image of two colonies,  B) in situ image of  the holotype prior to ROV collection, and C) image of holotype under the microscope with a 1 cm scale bar.

Parasphaerasclera mcfaddenae sp. nov. 

Andrea M. QUATTRINI, Declan MORRISSEY and Luke J. MCCARTIN. 2025. A New Soft Coral Species from the Gulf of Mexico (Octocorallia: Scleralcyonacea: Parasphaerascleridae). Zootaxa. 5601(3); 545-557. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5601.3.8 [2025-03-10]

[Crustacea • 2025] Bathynomus vaderi • A New Species of supergiant Bathynomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 (Isopoda: Cirolanidae) from Vietnam, with Notes on the Taxonomy of Bathynomus jamesi

Bathynomus vaderi

 Ng, Sidabalok & Nguyen, 2025 

 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1223.139335 

Abstract

A new supergiant species of Bathynomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 from Vietnam is described. Bathynomus vaderi sp. nov. is characterised by its wide, rectangular clypeal region with parallel lateral margins, concave distal margin, and narrowly acute apex; the distally narrowing and posteriorly curved coxa of pereopod 7; and the presence of 11 upwardly curved pleotelson spines. The new Bathynomus is the fourth species with upwardly curved pleotelson spines and the second supergiant in the South China Sea. The taxonomy of B. jamesi Kou, Chen & Li, 2017 from the South China Sea is also discussed based on a large series of specimens. Previously reported differences in body form and pleotelson spines, which suggest that there may be two forms or species, are regarded as intraspecific variation for the time being. The contemporary culinary trend and fishing of Bathynomus in Vietnam, which have contributed to this discovery, are also discussed.

Key words: Deep sea, fisheries, morphology, new taxon, taxonomy, seafood

Bathynomus vaderi sp. nov., paratype ♂ (258 mm) (ZVNU 110001), Vietnam, colour in life
A dorsal view B body, ventral view C cephalon, anterior view.

A–D Bathynomus vaderi sp. nov., holotype ♂ (266 mm) (ZRC 2022.0621), Vietnam
E–H B. jamesi Kou, Chen & Li, 2017, ♂ (320 mm) (MNHN IS.2290), Philippines
A, E clypeal region B, F pereon lateral view C, G pleotelson, dorsal view D, H pleotelson, lateral view.

Abbreviations: c6 = coxa of pereopod 6; c7 = coxa of pereopod 7.

Bathynomus vaderi sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Clypeal region with lateral margin parallel, distal margin concave, apex narrowly acute, transversely rectangular (Figs 4C, 5C, 6C, 9A). Coxa of pereopod 7 narrows distally, curved posteriorly (Figs 5D, 6D, E, 9B). Distinct row of setae present between pleotelson spines; 11 upwardly curved pleotelson spines; pleotelson 0.6 as long as wide (Figs 5A, 9D); pleotelson vaulted laterally (Figs 6E, 9C). Appendix masculina slightly shorter than or reaching to end of endopod of pleopod 2 (Fig. 10A).

Etymology: The species named after the most famous Sith Lord in the Star Wars movie series, Darth Vader, whose helmet resembles the head of the new Bathynomus species.

 Peter K. L. Ng, Conni M. Sidabalok and Thanh Son Nguyen. 2025. A New Species of supergiant Bathynomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cirolanidae) from Vietnam, with Notes on the Taxonomy of Bathynomus jamesi Kou, Chen & Li, 2017. ZooKeys. 1223: 289-310. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1223.139335 

[Cnidaria • 2024] Pseudopterogorgia nanjiensis • A New gorgonian (Octocorallia: Gorgoniidae) from the Nanji Islands, China

 Pseudopterogorgia nanjiensis Sun, Xu & Zhan,

in Sun, Y. Xu, K. Xu, Chen, Xie et Zhan, 2024.  

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1213.126841

Abstract

Members of the genus Pseudopterogorgia Kükenthal, 1919 are widely distributed in shallow water of the Indo-West Pacific. During an investigation of benthic biodiversity in the subtidal zone surrounding the Nanji Islands in the East China Sea, two specimens of Pseudopterogorgia were collected and described as a new species based on an integrated morphological-molecular approach. Pseudopterogorgia nanjiensis sp. nov. is most similar to P. fredericki Williams & Vennam, 2001 in the irregular branching form and indistinct scaphoids, but differs by the coenenchymal sclerite content of distinct capstans and a few warty spindles and radiates (vs. mostly warty spindles and a few capstans), and a purplish colony (vs. white, pink to deep rose). Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on the mtMutS-COI gene sequences, delineated a monophyletic clade encompassing all assessed Pseudopterogorgia species. Within this clade, P. nanjiensis sp. nov. showed a close phylogenetic affinity with both P. fredericki and P. australiensis Ridley, 1884.

Key words: Anthozoa, COI, Malacalcyonacea, morphology, mtMutS, new species, phylogeny, taxonomy, 28S rDNA

Phylum Cnidaria Hatschek, 1888

Subphylum Anthozoa Ehrenberg, 1834

Class Octocorallia Haeckel, 1866

Order Malacalcyonacea McFadden, van Ofwegen & Quattrini, 2022

Family Gorgoniidae Lamouroux, 1812

Genus Pseudopterogorgia Kükenthal, 1919

The external morphology and polyps of Pseudopterogorgia nanjiensis sp. nov.
  A holotype in situ B holotype after collection C paratype after fixation D part of branch under a light microscope E single polyp aperture under a light microscope F sclerites under a light microscope G coenenchyme under SEM H single dissolved polyp aperture under a light microscope.

Scale bars: 2 cm (B); 3 cm (C); 2 mm (D); 0.2 mm (E); 0.1 mm (F, G, H).

 Pseudopterogorgia nanjiensis Sun, Xu & Zhan, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Colony non-pinnate and purplish. Branches divided dichotomously and irregularly, nearly in one plane. Polyp retracted and forming a small and oval-shaped protrusion. Sclerites in polyps small flat rodlets, colorless and rare to absent in numbers. Sclerites in coenenchyme red, mostly capstans, a few radiates and warty spindles, and rare scaphoids. Capstans have two whorls of tubercles and blunt ends with irregular arrangements of complex tubercles. Radiates and immature sclerites with two whorls of projections, spindles with 4–8 whorls of tubercles, and scaphoids with similar ornamentation of tubercles on both convex and concave sides.

Tingzai Sun, Yu Xu, Kuidong Xu, Shun Chen, Shangwei Xie and Zifeng Zhan. 2024. A New gorgonian Pseudopterogorgia nanjiensis sp. nov. (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Gorgoniidae) from the Nanji Islands, China. ZooKeys. 1213: 237-249. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1213.126841

[Cnidaria • 2024] Umimayanthus mirnangga, U. jebarra, U. raksasa, etc. • Museum Collections as Untapped Sources of Undescribed Diversity of Sponge-zoantharian Associations with the Description of Six New Species of Umimayanthus (Zoantharia: Parazoanthidae) from Western Australia and eastern Indonesia

 

Umimayanthus cf. aruensis (Pax, 1911) 

in Montenegro, Fromont, Richards, Kise, Gomez, Hoeksema et Reimer, 2024. 

DOI: 10.1163/18759866-bja10069 

 x.com/deepseaUWA 

  Researchgate.net/publication/383565499

 

Abstract

The zoantharian genus Umimayanthus consists largely of species that live in obligate symbioses with sponges. Although zoantharians have often been overlooked in field collecting campaigns and in research, sponges are usually well-collected, and many natural history museums harbor numerous sponge specimens. Thus, these sponge collections may also include previously overlooked zoantharian species. Such is the case in this research, in which we examined sponge specimens in museum collections from Western Australia and eastern Indonesia. Based on our morphological and molecular analyses, we herein describe six species of Umimayanthus new to science, and redescribe another species described over a century ago. These species can be distinguished by their sponge associations, gross polyp and colony morphology, and depth ranges. Based on these findings, it appears that the Central Indo-Pacific region of Western Australia and Indonesia can be considered a hotspot for sponge-associated zoantharian diversity. We provide a key for the identification of all formally described species in the genus, but caution that there are likely more Umimayanthus species awaiting discovery.

Keywords: Anthozoa; biodiversity; coral reefs; Porifera; species descriptions

Phylum Cnidaria Hatschek, 1888 

Subphylum Anthozoa Ehrenberg, 1831 

Class Hexacorallia Haeckel, 1896 

Order Zoantharia Rafinesque, 1815 

Family Parazoanthidae Delage & Hérouard, 1901 

Genus Umimayanthus Montenegro, Sinniger and Reimer 2015

Umimayanthus cf. aruensis (Pax, 1911) 

Umimayanthus mirnangga sp. nov. WAM Z88824 (holotype)

Umimayanthus mirnangga sp. nov. Montenegro, Kise & Reimer

Etymology. The specific epithet “mirnangga” is derived from the phoneme used to refer to a young single woman in the Wunambal language. This in reference to the fact that the colonies of U. mirnangga sp. nov. are exclusively composed of solitary polyps. “mɨrnangga binya” n., B-class young woman. Syn: munangga. See Bengmoro et al. (1971) and Boona (2022).

Umimayanthus jebarra sp. nov. Montenegro, Kise & Reimer

Etymology. The specific epithet “jebarra” is derived from the phoneme used to refer to the emu in Wunambal language. This in reference to the elongated shape of the polyps in U. jebarra sp. nov., which resemble the neck of an emu. As well, the name can act as a memorial to all the emus killed during the Great Emu Wars of 1932 in Western Australia. “jebarra anya” n., A-class. emu. Dromaius novaehollandiae. Syn: garnanganyja; jeebarra. See Mangglamarra (1991) and Karadada et al. (2011).

Umimayanthus wunanggu sp. nov. 

Umimayanthus wunanggu sp. nov. Montenegro, Kise & Reimer

Etymology. The specific epithet “wunanggu” is derived from the phoneme used to refer to the hill white gum tree in Wunambal language. This in reference to U. wunanggu sp. nov. forming colonies of white polyps connected by a thin coenenchyma that extends on a linear branching pattern over the sponge surface. “wunanggu winya” n., W-class. /wunaŋgu/. hill white gum, tropical red box, Eucalyptus brachyandra von Mueller, 1859. See Capell (1941) and Karadada (2011).

Umimayanthus discolor sp. nov. Montenegro, Kise & Reimer

Etymology. The specific epithet “discolor” means multiple colors in Latin. This is in reference to U. discolor sp. nov. forming colonies of polyps with contrasting colorations between the oral disk and the column, stolon, and coenenchyma.

Umimayanthus lynherensis sp. nov. Montenegro, Kise & Reimer  

 Etymology. The specific epithet “lynherensis” is derived from the locality where the type specimen was collected, the Lynher Bank sea country north Kimberley, Western Australia, Australia.  

Umimayanthus raksasa sp. nov. Montenegro, Kise & Reimer

Etymology. The specific epithet “raksasa”, which means “giant” or “gigantic” in Indonesian, refers to the large size of the polyps of this species in comparison to the other members of its genus.

 

 Javier Montenegro, Jane Fromont, Zoe Richards, Hiroki Kise, Oliver Gomez, Bert W. Hoeksema and James Davis Reimer. 2024. Museum Collections as Untapped Sources of Undescribed Diversity of Sponge-zoantharian Associations with the Description of Six New Species of Umimayanthus (Zoantharia: Parazoanthidae) from Western Australia and eastern Indonesia.  Contributions to Zoology. DOI: doi.org/10.1163/18759866-bja10069

  x.com/deepseauwa/status/1830439654870667504

Researchgate.net/publication/383565499_six_new_species_of_Umimayanthus_from_Western_Australia

[Ichthyology • 2024] Gaidropsarus mauritanicus • A New three-bearded Rockling (Gadiformes: Gaidropsaridae) from A Deep-water Coral Ecosystem with a genetically verified biogeographical distribution of the genus and notes to its ecology and behavior

Gaidropsarus mauritanicus Knorrn, Beuck, & Freiwald, 

in Knorrn, Beuck, Barros-García, Fernández-Peralta et Freiwald, 2024. 

DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15859

Abstract

Gaidropsarus mauritanicus sp. nov. is described from one specimen collected using a grab sample from the Tanoûdêrt Canyon (ca. 20° N) off Mauritania at a depth of 595 m. The new species was further observed during eight remotely operated vehicle (ROV) dives along the Mauritanian slope southwards down to the Tiguent Coral Mound Complex (~17° N) in a bathymetric range between 613 and 416 m. It can be distinguished from congeners by a combination of characteristics, including large eyes (38.1% head length [HL]), large head (25.8% standard length [SL]), elongated pelvic fins (35.7% SL), low number of vertebrae (44), and coloration (pinkish with a dorsal darker brownish hue and bright blotches along the dorsal-fin base). A species-delimitation analysis performed with available cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) sequences affiliated to the genus Gaidropsarus additionally supported the validity of the new species. Video analyses showed a deep-water coral-associated and protection-seeking behavior, which may explain why the species has remained undescribed until now. Additional ROV footage from separate deep-water coral sites in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea further highlights the ecological behavior and hidden diversity of bathyal three-bearded rocklings. Here, we additionally discuss the biogeographical distribution of all genetically verified Gaidropsarus spp. in combination with genetic data and morphological characters. G. mauritanicus sp. nov. is closely related to a species from Tasmania (43° S), a geographical point furthest among the studied samples, which may hint to an important influence of (paleo-) oceanography on the distributions of Gaidropsarus species.

Keywords: deep-water coral habitat, micro-CT, NE Atlantic, NW Africa, phylogenetics, species delimitation, Tanoûdêrt canyon, X-ray, Mauritania

Class: Osteichthyes Huxley, 1880.

Order: Gadiformes Goodrich, 1909.

Family: Gaidropsaridae Jordan & Evermann, 1898.

Genus: Gaidropsarus Rafinesque, 1810.

Photograph showing in vivo coloration of the holotype of Gaidropsarus mauritanicus sp. nov. in seawater after sampling.
(a) Overview, dorso-lateral side. (b–d) Details, dorsal view: (b) cephalic region, (c) first and second dorsal fins, and (d) left pectoral fin.

 Gaidropsarus mauritanicus sp. nov. Knorrn, Beuck, & Freiwald, 2024.

 Species identification: 

The specimen can be affiliated with the genus Gaidropsarus Rafinesque 1810 as it displays the morphological characters previously described by Cohen et al. (1990). These characteristics include the presence of three barely separated dorsal fins, with the first possessing only one single thickened and unsegmented ray, the second having several small and unsegmented rays in a fleshy elongated groove, and the third with segmented rays in an elongated fin. Additionally, the species has three prominent barbels: one located on the chin and one at each anterior nostril on the snout, in addition to a prominent anal fin and an interrupted lateral line running along the entire length of the body.

...

Diagnosis: G. mauritanicus sp. nov. differs from all other 13 valid Gaidropsarus species by the combination of the following characteristics: large eyes (38.1% HL) versus small eyes, relatively large head (25.8% SL), elongated pelvic fin (35.7% SL) versus medium-sized pelvic fin, small pectoral fin (13.8% SL) versus enlarged pectoral fin, 44 vertebrae, coloration (pinkish with a darker brownish hue around the dorsal side and brighter dots around the dorsal-fin bases), and habitat preference (deep-water coral ecosystems). For detailed comparisons between the species, see Tables 2 and 3.

Etymology: The species name “mauritanicus” is derived from the Latin name of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, known for its species-rich marine ecosystems, among them the most extensive known “chain”-shaped, habitat-forming deep-water coral ecosystem, to which this species is associated.

Representative remotely operated vehicle (ROV) images of Gaidropsarus mauritanicus sp. nov. in its habitat (copyright Tomas Lundälv from the Sven Lovén Centre for Marine Infrastructure of the University of Gothenburg, Sweden).
(a) A small individual—similar in size to holotype—between coral rubble (Banda Coral Mounds, 523-m water depth). (b) Inside a coral garden (Swiftia phaeton), sheltered between dead coral framework fragments and rubble (Timiris Coral Mounds, 492-m water depth). (c) Hiding inside a dead coral framework, see red arrow (Tanoûdêrt Canyon, 610-m water depth). (d) Coexistence with cf. Japonoconger africanus inside live Desmophyllum pertusum framework (red arrow) (Tamxat Coral Mounds, 501-m water depth).
(e) Below protective “canopy” of live Madrepora oculata (Tiguent Coral Mounds, 418 m). (f) Two individuals next to a dead scleractinian framework, which is colonized by sponges and various octocorals, among Swiftia phaeton (Tamxat Coral Mounds, 535-m water depth; see also Video S3). (g) Next to a framework fragment, which is colonized by a branched bryozoan (Celleporina cf. lucida); note the whitish marks on the skin (Tamxat Coral Mounds, 479-m water depth). (h) Adult individual finds shelter next to hardground (geology term) ledge; note the slightly varying coloration with respect to young individuals (Tiguent Coral Mounds, 434-m water depth).

CONCLUSION: 

The existence of G. mauritanicus sp. nov. as a new species is morphologically confirmed by the presence of only 44 vertebrae, a conspicuously long pelvic fin (35.7% SL), the large eyes (38.1% HL), medium-sized pectoral fin (13.8% SL), and the pinkish coloration with several brighter dots along the base of the dorsal fin, as well as genetically confirmed by several independent species delimitation analyses. Furthermore, ROV and lander surveys reveal insights into the ecology and behavior of deep-water coral-associated Gaidropsarus species, suggesting that these species are territorial and protective. Genetically supported distribution data show clear patterns in the biogeographical and bathymetrical distribution of the different Gaidropsarus species. Recent and ancient oceanography seems to be an important factor in terms of larval distribution and phylogenetic relationships, such as the first evidence of G. mauli as a basal member of the boreal Gaidropsarus species. Further, the genetic and distribution data also indicate possible misidentifications between G. macrophthalmus and G. mediterraneus. This highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive taxonomic identification key and a complete scientific collection. There still remains a great knowledge gap concerning the Gaidropsarus species of the Southern Hemisphere, which should be the focus of future investigations.

 

Alexander H. Knorrn, Lydia Beuck, David Barros-García, Lourdes Fernández-Peralta and André Freiwald. 2024. Gaidropsarus mauritanicus (Gadiformes, Gaidropsaridae) A New three-bearded Rockling from A Deep-water Coral Ecosystem with a genetically verified biogeographical distribution of the genus and notes to its ecology and behavior. Journal of Fish Biology. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/jfb.15859

  

[Crustacea • 2024] Wollastenothoe minuta • “Hidden” Biodiversity: A New amphipod Genus (Amphipoda: Stenothoidae) dominates Epifauna in Association with a mesophotic Black Coral Forest

 

Wollastenothoe minuta Gouillieux & Navarro-Mayoral, 

in Navarro-Mayoral, Gouillieux, Fernandez-Gonzalez, Tuya, Lecoquierre, ... et Otero-Ferrer, 2024.

DOI: 10.1007/s00338-024-02491-y

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Abstract

Black corals are important components of mesophotic and deep-water marine habitats. Their presence at great depths (e.g., 50 to 200 m) makes accessibility difficult, limiting our understanding of the associated biodiversity. Amphipods dominate vagile epifauna in marine habitats around the world, fulfilling important ecosystem functions. However, there are no studies on amphipods exclusively associated with black corals, including relationships between their ecological patterns (e.g., abundances) and the size of coral colonies. We investigated the epifaunal composition and abundance associated with black coral colonies of Antipathella wollastoni in the subtropical eastern Atlantic Ocean. In total, 1,736 epifaunal individuals were identified, of which 1,706 (98.27%) were amphipods, belonging to 6 taxa. We identified and described a new amphipod genus and species within the Stenothoidae family, Wollastenothoe minuta gen. nov., sp. nov., which outnumbered the amphipod assemblage (86.15%) and provided a complete taxonomic key of Stenothoidae family including this new finding. For the first time, the association between an amphipod species and a black coral was described, including a strong correlation between coral colony size and amphipod abundances. This study demonstrates that epifauna associated with mesophotic black corals remains largely undescribed.

Keywords: Stenothoidae, Key to species, Antipathella wollastoni, Epifauna, Marine animal forests

Wollastenothoe minuta gen. nov., sp. nov. SEM pictures, MNHN-IU-2021–8808.
a Lateral view; b Maxilla 2, left; c Lower lip; d Gnathopod 2, outer face, dactylus and propodus; e Gnathopod 1, inner face, dactylus and propodus; f Urosome, lateral view.

 Scale bars: a: 0.25 mm; b: 0.01 mm; c: 0.01 mm, d, e: 0.02; f: 0.1 mm

 

Taxonomy

Class Malacostraca Latreille 1806

Order Amphipoda Latreille 1816

Suborder Senticaudata Lowry & Myers 2013

Family Stenothoidae Boeck 1871

Genus Wollastenothoe Gouillieux & Navarro-Mayoral gen. nov.

Diagnosis of the new genus: Body dorsally smooth. Head without rostrum. Antenna 1 article 1 not nasiform; accessory flagellum with 1 article. Mandible palp with 1 article, molar process conical. Maxilla 1 palp with 2 articles. Gnathopod 1 and 2 subchelate, subequal. P5 basis rectolinear without posterodistal lobe. P6-7 basis widened.

Etymology: The genus name, Wollastenothoe, refers the combination of host name corresponding to the species of black coral (i.e., Antipathella wollastoni) with the genus name Stenothoe belonging to the Stenothoidae family.

  Wollastenothoe minuta Gouillieux & Navarro-Mayoral gen. nov., sp. nov.,  

Diagnosis: Body length less than 1.5 mm. Antenna subequal, shorter than half length of body. Antenna 1 accessory flagellum with 1 small article. Gnathopod 1 and 2 subchelate, subequal. Pereonite 4 slightly longer than pereonite 3. Coxa 4 ventral margin concave. Coxae 5–7 posterior margin with a notch. P5 basis rectolinear without posterodistal lobe. P6-7 basis widened with posterodistal lobe reaching along half of ischium, merus posterodistal lobe reaching more than half length of carpus. Telson with dorsal spines.

 

Etymology. The epithet specific of the species, minuta, refers to its small size.

Type locality. Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain.

Sandra Navarro-Mayoral, Benoit Gouillieux, Victoria Fernandez-Gonzalez, Fernando Tuya, Ninon Lecoquierre, Lorenzo Bramanti, Lucas Terrana, Fernando Espino, Jean-François Flot, Ricardo Haroun and Francisco Otero-Ferrer. 2024. “Hidden” Biodiversity: A New amphipod Genus dominates Epifauna in Association with a mesophotic Black Coral Forest. Coral Reefs. DOI: 10.1007/s00338-024-02491-y

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[Crustacea • 2023] Palaemonella sandyi • A New Species of Palaemonella (Decapoda: Caridea: Palaemonidae) associated with scleractinian Corals of the Genus Euphyllia

Palaemonella sandyi 

Fransen, Van der Veer & Ďuriš, 2023

 DOI: 10.1163/15685403-bja10289 

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Photographs by C.H.J.M. Fransen.

  

Abstract

A new species of Palaemonella, P. sandyi sp. nov., is described on the basis of specimens collected in association with euphylliid scleractinian corals, Euphyllia glabrescens and E. cristata. Material was collected from the Maldives, Cebu in the Philippines, Semporna in Malaysia, and from Java, Bali, Sulawesi, Kalimantan, Ternate and Raja Ampat in Indonesia. The new species is similar to P. colemani and P. euphyllius, which are associated with euphylliid corals of the genus Fimbriaphyllia. The new species can be distinguished from P. colemani and P. euphyllius, as well as from the species P. philippinensis and P. smiti, which are both symbionts with plerogyrid scleractinians, on the basis of morphological characters in the rostrum and ambulatory pereiopods, colouration, and molecular data.

Keywords: Crustacea; Decapoda; Caridea; Palaemonidae; Palaemonella; new species; coral symbiont; 

Crustacea; Decapoda; Caridea; Palaemonidae; Palaemonella; nouvelle espèce; symbionte de coraux

Palaemonella sandyi sp. nov.
A, Ovigerous female, pocl. 4.3 mm, RMNH.CRUS.D.53060; B, male, pocl. 2.4 mm, RMNH.CRUS.D.53097.

 Photographs by C.H.J.M. Fransen.

 Palaemonella sandyi 

Palaemonella sandyi sp. nov., on Euphyllia glabrescens (Chamisso & Eysenhardt, 1821).
A, Stn. RAJ.29; B, stn. TER.06, RMNH.CRUS.D.53516;
 C, stn. SEM.28, RMNH.CRUS.D.53830; D, stn. MAL.03, RMNH.CRUS.D.58052;
E, stn. LEM.36, RMNH.CRUS.D.58050; F, LEM.01.

Photographs by C.H.J.M. Fransen.

Charles H. J. M. Fransen, Eva Van der Veer and Zdeněk Ďuriš. 2023. A New Species of Palaemonella (Decapoda, Caridea, Palaemonidae) associated with scleractinian Corals of the Genus Euphyllia Dana. Crustaceana. 345–381. DOI: 10.1163/15685403-bja10289

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