Taxonomy of calcareous sponges (Porifera, Calcarea) from Potiguar Basin, NE Brazil

Abstract

Relatively few calcareous sponges (Porifera, Calcarea) have been recorded from Brazil, mostly due to a reduced number of studies focused exclusively on these generally small, cryptic organisms. To fill in part this gap, the taxonomy and distribution of calcareous sponges from Potiguar Basin (Rio Grande do Norte state, Northeastern Brazil) are studied here. Thirty one specimens were collected by dredging, trawling and SCUBA diving from 2003 to 2007 from depths of 2 to 160 m. Seven species were found and are described here. Two of these species are new to science (Leucetta potiguar sp. nov. and Paraleucilla sphaerica sp. nov.), and four are new records for Rio Grande do Norte state (Clathrina aurea, Leucascus roseus, Leucetta floridana, and Leucandra serrata). An identification key for the species of Calcarea from Potiguar Basin is provided here.