Abstract
AbstractTwo new species of Rubyspira and one of Cordesia (Gastropoda: Abyssochrysoidea) are described morphologically and genetically, based on specimens collected from whale bones and wood parcels artificially implanted in the deep south-west Atlantic Ocean, at c. 1500 and 3300 m depths. Rubyspira pescaprae sp. nov. and R. elongata sp. nov. occur preferentially on whale bones. Cordesia atlantica sp. nov. is dominant on wood parcels. Distribution of Cordesia was hitherto only associated with hydrocarbon seeps off West Africa. Stable isotopes and gut content analyses were carried out to check possible trophic pathways. Both Rubyspira species are bone eaters, while Cordesia atlantica seems to rely on a wider range of food sources, including juveniles of wood-specialized xylophagid bivalves. Morphological and genetic evidence suggest that Rubyspira and Cordesia are more closely related to Abyssochrysos than to any other Abyssochrysoidea snails. In the present study, Cordesia is considered part of the family Abyssochrysidae based on molecular and morphological evidence, such as the presence of a penis and pallial tentacles arrangement.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.