Abstract
The parasitic isopod genus Tylokepon is recorded for the first time from the Mariana Islands and Australia. Tylokeponmarianensissp. n. is described from the Mariana Islands, infesting Thusaenysirami (Laurie, 1906). The holotype female differs from other known Tylokepon females by the tri-lobed projection on pereomere 6, almost smooth lateral plates and pleopods, shape of oostegite 1, and widely opened brood pouch. The host is first recorded for bearing bopyrids. The new record of T.bonnieri Stebbing, 1904 from Australia on the type host extends the range of this species from China and India. A table of localities and hosts and a key to all species of Tylokepon are provided.
Highlights
Epicarid isopods remain greatly underdescribed, and Williams and Boyko (2012) predicted that the central Indian Ocean and east Asian seas hold a wealth of undescribed species
Tylokepon marianensis is most similar to T. bonnieri, which was recorded from Beibu Gulf in China on the related host Hyastenus diacanthus (An, 2009)
While the three lobes are separated at the base in T. bonnieri, they are united basally to form a tri-lobed structure in the new species. They differ in the sculpture of the lateral plates on pleomeres 2–5 and pleopods: these are almost smooth in T. marianensis but tuberculate in T. bonnieri
Summary
Epicarid isopods remain greatly underdescribed, and Williams and Boyko (2012) predicted that the central Indian Ocean and east Asian seas hold a wealth of undescribed species. Pleon with six distinct pleomeres, first five with longer lateral plates and biramous pleopods (Figure 1B).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
