Abstract
For the first time, specimens of Holothuria impatiens are reported from the Tunisian coast, supported by molecular (COI sequencing) and morphological (examination of ossicles) analyses. For comparative purposes, Holothuria impatiens samples were genetically analyzed with existing data from Spain, Italy, and the Red Sea. In addition to their external morphology, an external substance covering the individuals is described, besides the new ossicle structure described in the body wall of H. impatiens samples. The results of the morphometry of the specimens from the Tunisian coast revealed that, for two shapes of ossicles, the size of the individuals does not influence their structures. Low genetic diversity was observed in Tunisia, with two haplotypes; one of both haplotypes was reported for the first time exclusively in Tunisia. The phylogenetic tree showed that the haplotypes were shared across all locations, revealing that the Mediterranean and Red Sea individuals were clearly distinct. Further studies on the genetic diversity of H. impatiens are crucial for the evaluation of the singularity of Mediterranean populations.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
