New records and range-extension of the swimming crab Xiphonectes pseudohastatoides (Yang & Tang, 2006) (Brachyura, Portunidae)

Abstract

During an examination of swimming crabs of the Xiphonectes hastatoides species-complex from Malaysia and Vietnam, a series of specimens of Xiphonectes pseudohastatoides (Yang & Tang, 2006) was identified. This small-sized species was recognized based on its flattened pilose carapace with typical shape of its frontal teeth, a pair of long posterior lateral teeth and sharp posterolateral angles forming spines, ‘T’-shaped male abdomen with widely fused segments, and strongly curved first male pleopods. These specimens represent the first record of X. pseudohastatoides outside the northern part of the South China Sea, and thus, an extension of the known species range to central Vietnam and northeastern peninsular Malaysia. A short description and photographs are provided for the examined specimens.