A new genus of the Monstrilloida (Copepoda) with large rostral process and metasomal spines, and redescription of Monstrilla spinosa Park, 1967

Abstract

Abstract The genus Monstrilla Dana, 1849 is one of the most diverse of the copepod order Monstrilloida and has a worldwide distribution. A new genus, Spinomonstrilla n. gen. is proposed for Monstrilla spinosa Park, 1967 from Canada and California. Spinomonstrilla spinosa (Park, 1970), formerly M. spinosa, the type species of the new genus, is redescribed from type specimens. The new genus shows a unique set of conspicuous characters in both males and females that clearly diverge from all other monstrilloids. It can be recognized by the presence of a large rostral process and paired dorsal metasomal spiniform processes; the female antennule structure and setation diverge from the usual monstrilloid pattern; its body shows a unique ornamentation pattern. These characters allow an easy recognition of members of Spinomonstrilla from all other Monstrilloida.