Bi-Hemispheric Distribution and Ecology of the Commensal Amphipod Leucothoe nagatai Ishimaru, 1985 (Crustacea: Leucothoidae)

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2021

Publication Title

Pacific Science

Abstract

Reports on the taxonomy and distribution of the amphipod crustacean Leucothoe nagatai , are discussed including significant range extensions from the type locality in the Sea of Japan. This research was based on existing museum specimens, and in situ collections of new material. Originally described from the branchial chamber of the solitary ascidian Styela plicata (), several new ascidian and sponges host species from California and New Zealand are documented for L. nagatai. Molecular studies confirm that northern and southern hemisphere populations are genetically indistinguishable. Color patterns in live and freshly preserved specimens of L. nagatai are diagnostic across its geographic range aiding in identification by nontaxonomists. Feeding habits of leucothoids within their invertebrate hosts are elucidated and discussed. Figures and plates of known invertebrate hosts, color patterns, and taxonomic structures are included.

Department

Biological and Environmental Sciences

Volume Number

75

Issue Number

3

First Page

309

Last Page

321

DOI

https://doi.org/10.2984/75.3.2

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