There are notoriously many different definitions of species and methods of species delimitation, ... more There are notoriously many different definitions of species and methods of species delimitation, forcing taxonomists to make a long range of methodological decisions in species delimitation. Because of this, there are sometimes multiple viable competing methodological paths, which could lead to different ranking (or even grouping) decisions. As a result, it is often unclear what it means for a group to be recognized as a species, the groups recognized as species are not always comparable, and some have even called ranking decisions ‘subjective’. To mitigate the problems this causes for users of taxonomy and taxonomists, we propose that taxonomists across the tree of life should start preregistering their research design and criteria for species delimitation in advance of their research. We argue that even if it were to require additional effort, preregistering taxonomic research would strongly benefit taxonomy in the long term, by increasing the transparency and usability of taxonom...
In this paper, an overview is given of the Schizorhynchia collected during the I International Wo... more In this paper, an overview is given of the Schizorhynchia collected during the I International Workshop to Marine and Anchialine Meiofauna on the island of Lanzarote. Eight species previously unknown to science are described: Cheliplana curini n. sp., C. canariensis n. sp., C. sarnensis n. sp., Cheliplanilla cavavulcana n. sp., C. todaroi n. sp., Proschizorhynchus martinezi n. sp., Schizochilus lanzarotensis n. sp. and Pseudoschizorhynchoides timoshkini n. sp. These new species are primarily distinguished from their congeners by unique features in the genital system, especially the morphology of the copulatory hard structures. Additionally, new data are presented for the known species Carcharodorhynchus flavidus Brunet, 1967. We also make note of an undescribed species, probably belonging to the genus Proschizorhynchella Schilke, 1970, collected in Lanzarote. Carcharodorhynchus worsaae Reygel, Janssen & Artois, 2014, which was collected during the same sampling campaign, is also briefly mentioned. For Carcharodorhynchus flavidus, Proschizorhynchus martinezi n. sp. and Cheliplana curini n. sp., we also report on (new) localities outside of Lanzarote.
Urbanisation has become one of the major anthropogenic drivers behind insect decline in abundance... more Urbanisation has become one of the major anthropogenic drivers behind insect decline in abundance, biomass and species richness over the past decades. As a result, bees and other pollinators' natural habitats are reduced and degraded. Green roofs are frequently recommended as ways to counter the negative impacts of urbanisation on nature and enhance the amount of green space in cities. In this study we evaluated the pollinator (more specifically wild bees and hoverflies) diversity, abundance and species richness on twenty green roofs in Antwerp, Belgium. We analysed the influence of roof characteristics (age, surface area, height, percent cover of green space surrounding each site) on species richness or abundance of pollinators. In total we found 40 different wild bee species on the green roofs. None of the physical roof characteristics appear to explain differences in wild bees species richness and abundance. Neither could we attribute the difference in roof vegetation cover, ...
Here, the abundance of macro-invertebrates (Arthropoda and Gastropoda) of eight green roofs and t... more Here, the abundance of macro-invertebrates (Arthropoda and Gastropoda) of eight green roofs and their adjacent ground level habitats in the city of Antwerp, Belgium, is compared. All higher-level taxa found were present in both types of habitats without significant differences in their overall abundance between green roofs and ground level habitats. However, we found significant differences in abundances between the two types of habitats, when specific taxa were compared. Beetles (Coleoptera), isopods (Isopoda) and bees (Anthophila) were more abundant at ground level sites compared to green roofs, while for true bugs (Heteroptera) and cicadas (Auchenorrhyncha) the opposite was found. Our results support the idea that extensive green roofs in Belgium can provide a suitable habitat for different invertebrate taxa, but further research is needed to identify the true drivers behind differences in abundance between ground level and adjacent green roofs.
During their annual migration, avian migrants alternate stopover periods, for refuelling, with mi... more During their annual migration, avian migrants alternate stopover periods, for refuelling, with migratory flight bouts. We hypothesise that European Nightjars (Caprimulgus europaeus) adapt their daily migration tactics in association with biomes. We tracked the autumn migration of 24 European Nightjars, from breeding populations in Mongolia, Belgium and UK, using GPS-loggers and multi-sensor data loggers. We quantified crepuscular and nocturnal migration and foraging probabilities, as well as daily travel speed and flight altitude during active migration in response to biomes. Nightjars adopt a rush tactic, reflected in high daily travel speed, flight altitude and high migration probabilities at dusk and at night, when travelling through ecological barriers. Migration is slower in semi-open, hospitable biomes. This is reflected in high foraging probabilities at dusk, lower daily travel speed and lower migration probabilities at dusk. Our study shows how nightjars switch migration tac...
We describe a new genus of dalytyphloplanid rhabdocoels, with seven new species. Orostylis gen. n... more We describe a new genus of dalytyphloplanid rhabdocoels, with seven new species. Orostylis gen. nov. has a unique combination of characters including the presence of a sclerotised stylet, an anteriorly positioned male copulatory organ with the male genital pore in the buccal cavity, and the absence of an oviduct. The ovary empties directly into the intestinal lumen. Orostylis dohae sp. nov., Orostylis asinaraensis sp. nov., Orostylis caecus sp. nov., Orostylis distortus sp. nov., Orostylis donanae sp. nov., Orostylis gallicus sp. nov., and Orostylis timucuorum sp. nov. are distinguished from each other by the structure of the sclerotised parts of the male copulatory organ. Molecular and morphological evidence place the new genus in Neodalyellida Willems et al. 2006, and similarities with other taxa are discussed.
<i>Reinhardorhynchus riae</i> Diez, Reygel &amp; Artois sp. n. (Fig. 7–8) urn:lsi... more <i>Reinhardorhynchus riae</i> Diez, Reygel &amp; Artois sp. n. (Fig. 7–8) urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act: 65D70F61-74DB-458B-B5EA-18AB0F972270 <b>Material and distribution.</b> Observations on live specimens. Three whole mounts, one designated holotype (FMNH https://id.luomus.fi/ KV.651), the others reference material (HU XIII.3.33– XIII.3.34), and one serially-sectioned specimen (HU XIII.3.35) collected in Mala (Lanzarote, Canary Islands) (29°05'01"N; 13°26'59"W), in front of "Cuevita de Mala" (October 10, 2011), sand patch under loose macroalgae, coarse shell gravel, very clean, 12 m deep (Type Locality). One whole mount from the same locality (HU XIII.3.36) (October 8, 2011), medium-fine, calcareous sand from a large parch among rocks, poorly-oxygenated redox layer just below surface, 20 m deep. Four whole mounts and seven serially-sectioned specimens (HU XIII.3.37– XIII.3.47) collected in a sheltered beach, a bit south of Orzola (Lanzarote, Canary Islands) (29°13'23"N; 13°27'05"W) (October 6, 2011), medium-coarse sand, with holes from burrowing animals, taken at low tide, just below the water line. One whole mount (HU XIII.3.48) collected at the same locality (October 7, 2011), sample taken 0.4–0.5 m deep, coarse sand with lava rocks scattered around. Salinity 35 ‰ in all the localities. One whole mount (HU XIII.3.49) from Punta Negra (40°57'12"N, 08°13'43"E), Stintino, Sardinia, Italia (September 2018), on silty algae, 0.5 m deep, salinity 40 ‰. <b>Etymology.</b> Species dedicated to Ria Vanderspikken (Hasselt University), in acknowledgement of all her help in organising the sampling campaigns, archiving of literature and taking care of the HU specimen collection. <b>Diagnosis.</b> Species of <i>Reinhardorhynchus</i> <b>gen. n.</b> with a copulatory organ armed with two transverse spiny belts, a penis papilla, and two distal hooks. Prostate vesicle enclosed in a muscular bulb. This bulb ends in a pseudocuticular plate and is armed with two spiny rows being ±72 μm and ±55 μm long, respectively. Spines ±3 μm long at [...]
<i>Utelga pseudoheinckei</i> Karling, 1980 (Fig. 20D–E) urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act: 27A... more <i>Utelga pseudoheinckei</i> Karling, 1980 (Fig. 20D–E) urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act: 27A436A5-2FD7-4059-A2D3-F75FF5104526 Syn. <i>Utelga heinckei</i> in Brunet (1965) and Mack-Fira (1974). <b>Known distribution.</b> Korsfjord (Tekslo Island, Hordaland Fylke), Kleppholmen Island, and Fugloy Island, Norway; California, USA (Karling 1980). Marseille area, France (Brunet 1965); Black Sea, Romania (Mack-Fira 1974). <b>New records and material.</b> Observations on live specimens. Four whole mounts (HU XIII.4.34– XIII.4.37) from Punta Negra (40°57'12"N, 8°13'43"E), Stintino, Sardinia, Italy (September 2018), on silty algae, 0.5 m deep, salinity 40 ‰. <b>Remarks.</b> The morphology of the specimens corresponds with the description of Karling (1980). The general habitus and internal organisation are very similar to those in <i>U</i>. <i>heinckei</i>. The elongated copulatory bulb is 92– 108 μm long (<i>x̄</i> = 100 μm; n = 2) and 35 μm wide (n = 2). In a third specimen, not fully developed, the copulatory bulb is 49 μm long and 21 μm wide. The three hooks (Fig. 20D–E) at the distal end of the copulatory bulb are all of the same length, 5–8 μm long (<i>x̄</i> = 7 μm; n = 6), with a broad base, curved and with a sharp tip.
<i>Reinhardorhynchus beatrizae</i> Diez, Aguirre, Reygel &amp; Artois sp. n. (Fig... more <i>Reinhardorhynchus beatrizae</i> Diez, Aguirre, Reygel &amp; Artois sp. n. (Fig. 10) urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act: 7191A493-CCA1-421D-88D5-99AD3D7E5705 <b>Material and distribution.</b> Observations on live specimens, whole mounted afterwards. Two whole mounts from Las Sardinas (19°56'24"N; 76°46'41"W) (Type Locality), Guamá, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba (June 22, 2016), one of which is designated holotype (FMNH https://id.luomus.fi/ KV.649), the other one in HU (XIII.4.03), silty sand in rock pools protected from wave action, 0.3 m deep, salinity 33 ‰. Six whole mounts and three serially-sectioned specimens (in poor conditions) from Siboney (19°57'34"N; 75°42'07"W), Santiago de Cuba, Cuba (September 4, 2016; March 22 &amp; June 5, 2017), intertidal (upper 10 cm of fine-grained sand) up to 0.5 m deep (fine-grained sand rich in organic matter), salinity 33–35 ‰ (HU XIII.4.04– XIII.4.13). Two whole mounts from Bueycabón (19°57'38"N; 76°57'28"W), Santiago de Cuba, Cuba (February 6 &amp; 21, 2018), fine-grained sand rich in organic matter, 0.5 m deep, salinity 33 ‰ (HU XIII.4.14– XIII.4.15). <b>Etymology.</b> Species dedicated to Prof. Dr. Beatriz Martínez Daranas, researcher at the Marine Research Centre of Havana University, Cuba), specialist in taxonomy and ecology of seagrass and macroalgae. <b>Diagnosis.</b> Species of <i>Reinhardorhynchus</i> <b>gen. n.</b> with the copulatory bulb encompassing the prostate vesicle, an armed cirrus and two distal hooks. Cirrus armed with triangular, ±4-μm-long spines. Cirrus also includes a ±347- μm-long spiny belt. Proximally in the belt the spines are scale shaped and ±23 μm long. Proximal spines followed by a section bearing ±6-μm-long spines that runs distally and ends in the distal comb-shaped part, which is armed with ±32-μm-long spines. Larger hook ±101 μm long and ±59 μm wide at its base. Its base bears a ±45-μm-long and funnel-like hook. Smaller hook ±89 μm long and ±47 μm wide at its base. <b>Description.</b> Live specimens are 1.5–2 mm long, translucent, with two eyes (Fig. [...]
<i>Cheliplana sarnensis</i> Gobert, Reygel &amp; Artois, 2017 <b>Material e... more <i>Cheliplana sarnensis</i> Gobert, Reygel &amp; Artois, 2017 <b>Material examined</b>. <b>Reference material.</b> The holotype (SMNH Type 8907) and 4 whole mounts and 4 serially sectioned specimens from Lanzarote (HU VII.4.45–VIII.1.02). <b>Known distribution</b>. Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain (Gobert <i>et al.</i> 2017). <b>Remarks.</b> The caudal region of <i>Cheliplana sarnensis</i> is very extensible, similar to the situation in <i>C. varicauda</i>. As such, the overall body length depends on the state of contraction. The proboscis is provided with a pair of curved, 13–20-µm-long proboscis hooks, without denticles. The hook supports are small, only 7 μm long. The male genital apparatus has a single functional seminal vesicle. The copulatory bulb contains a proximal prostate vesicle and, more distally, an ~84-µm-long sclerotised ejaculatory duct. The distal part of the ejaculatory duct is transformed in a ~42-µm-long cirrus armed with very fine spines of uniform length. The vagina externa and bursa are connected to the ovary through three intertwined, funnel-shaped, sclerotised spermatic ducts.
<i>Cheliplana rubescens</i> Brunet, 1966 <b>Material examined</b>. <b&... more <i>Cheliplana rubescens</i> Brunet, 1966 <b>Material examined</b>. <b>Reference material.</b> 2 whole-mounted specimens (SMNH 82509, SMNH 97669) and 1 serially sectioned specimen (SMNH Type 3032). <b>Known distribution</b>. Golf de Marseille, France (Brunet 1966, 1968). Tjärnö, Sweden (Willems <i>et al</i>. 2009). Sylt, Germany (Armonies 2020). <b>Remarks</b>. Our observations correspond to those of Brunet (1966). Live specimens have a bright red pigmentation and are 1–1.2 mm long. A single, subterminal, continuous haptic girdle is present. The proboscis is armed with a pair of smooth, simple, curved hooks, 10–12 μm long. The long prepharyngeal tube is provided with rows of little pointed expansions, which are not sclerotised. The pharynx possesses small, sclerotised plates, arranged in circles (Brunet 1966).A single, large testis is located ventrally of the pharynx.According to Brunet (1966), the testis appears bilobed in many specimens. The vasa deferentia are paired and run posteriorly to a pair of seminal vesicles. The genital opening is situated in the posterior quarter of the body. The elongate male copulatory bulb is ~100 μm long and contains a prostatic vesicle in the slightly expanded proximal part. The distal half of the ejaculatory duct is transformed into a sclerotised cirrus, ornamented with longitudinal folds or 'wrinkles'. The copulatory bulb connects to the common genital atrium via a long male atrium. An unpaired ovary is situated near the posterior body end. A long, slender female duct connects the ovary to the common genital atrium. A small uterus also connects to the common genital atrium. The common genital atrium is surrounded by cement glands. A large, syncytial bursa lies adjacent to the ovary and is connected to the outside world via a long, weakly muscular vagina externa. The distal end of the vagina is widened to form a small bulb. The vaginal opening is situated posterior to the common genital opening.
<i>Cheliplana setosa</i> Evdonin, 1971 Fig. 9A–D <b>Material examined. New mate... more <i>Cheliplana setosa</i> Evdonin, 1971 Fig. 9A–D <b>Material examined. New material.</b> CANADA • 1 whole mount; British Columbia, Calvert Island, Foggy Cove; 51°39'07"N, 128°08'32"W; 9 Apr. 2016; medium-grained sand in between boulders in the lower intertidal; MI4193 • 1 whole mount; British Columbia, Bamfield, Brady Beach; 48°49'40"N, 125°09'12"W; 3 Jun. 2015; mediumgrained sand in lower intertidal; MI4194. <b>Reference material.</b> 1 whole-mounted specimen (SMNH 90403) and 1 serially sectioned specimen (SMNH 102990) from California, United States. <b>Known distribution</b>. Posyet, Peter the Great Gulf, Russia (Evdonin 1977). Monterey Bay, California, United States (Karling 1983). Ría de Villaviciosa, near San Martin, Spain (Noreña <i>et al.</i> 2007). <b>Remarks</b>. Live specimens are ~ 1.5 mm long. Specimens are yellowish to pinkish in colour (Fig. 9A). The proboscis bears curved proboscis hooks measuring 18–20 μm (h, Fig. 9C). Hook supports are about 12 μm long in the specimens from Canada (hs, Fig. 9C). Rod-shaped, weakly sclerotised proboscis sidepieces were observed by Karling (1983). The prepharyngeal tube is armed with spines (ppc, Fig. 9A). A single, large testis is situated alongside the pharynx (ph, t, Fig. 9A). Karling (1983) reports a lobe containing sperm at the posterior end of the testis. A pair of seminal vesicles, one of which ending blindly, the other connecting to the testis via an unpaired vas deferens, enter the proximal end of the copulatory bulb (cb, vs, Fig. 9A–B,D). The copulatory bulb is oviform (cb, Fig. 9A–B,D). In the Russian specimens, Evdonin (1971) measures a size range of 110 to 120 μm for the copulatory bulb. The Californian specimen described by Karling (1983) possesses a copulatory bulb of ~130 μm. The copulatory bulbs in the new specimens from Canada are somewhat larger still, measuring 130–160 μm. The copulatory bulb holds a cirrus of 40–60 μm (Russia and California) (Evdonin 1971; Karling 1983) or 68–85 μm (Canada) (ci, Fig. 9 A–B,D). The cirrus can be divided in three [...]
<i>Cheliplana orthocirra</i> Ax, 1959 <b>Material examined. New material.</b... more <i>Cheliplana orthocirra</i> Ax, 1959 <b>Material examined. New material.</b> ITALY • 1 whole mount; Sardinia, Asinara National Park, Cala del Bianco; 41°04'27"N, 8°20'12"E; 25 Sep. 2014; medium-grained sand between <i>Posidonia</i> sp., at 2.5 m deep; HU X.2.40. <b>Note.</b> No reference material was available to us at the time of this study. <b>Known distribution</b>. Florya, Sea of Marmara, Turkey (Ax 1959). Southern and Western Sweden (Atherton &amp; Jondelius 2020). <b>Remarks</b>. The proboscis hooks are smooth, fairly straight and ~11 μm long in the specimen from Sardinia. Ax (1959) does not give any measurements except those pertaining to the cirrus. <i>Cheliplana orthocirra</i> has a pair of partially fused testes, positioned on one side of the pharynx. The copulatory bulb is positioned in the posterior half of the body and contains a proximal prostatic vesicle, which connects directly to the distal cirrus. A pair of large, globular seminal vesicles and prostatic glands enter the proximal end of the copulatory bulb. The cirrus is armed with very fine spines over its entire length. These spines decrease in size towards the distal end of the cirrus. A single gonopore and bursa are present near the caudal end of the specimen. In the specimen from Sardinia, the cirrus is 35 μm long, which is significantly shorter than the ~56 μm reported by Ax (1959). Nevertheless, given the cirrus shape and generally similar internal morphology, we feel confident in ascribing this specimen to <i>C. orthocirra</i>.
<i>Cheliplana spuriaseminalis</i> Diez, Reygel &amp; Artois, 2019 <b>Materi... more <i>Cheliplana spuriaseminalis</i> Diez, Reygel &amp; Artois, 2019 <b>Material examined.</b> None. <b>Known distribution</b>. Bueycabón, Cuba (Diez <i>et al.</i> 2019). <b>Remarks (summarised from literature)</b>. Specimens are pinkish and have a body length of 0.9–1 mm when whole mounted. The proboscis is armed with 16-µm-long, curved hooks. The muscular hook supports measure 5 µm. The spiny prepharyngeal cavity is twice as long as the pharynx. A single testis lies caudally to the pharynx. Seminal vesicles are paired and empty proximally into the copulatory bulb. Only one seminal vesicle is functional and filled with sperm, the other one is atrophied, empty and not connected to the testis. The cylindrical, curved copulatory bulb (83–105 µm x 14–17 µm) comprises the prostate vesicle, one or more accessory glands and a 31-µm-long, unarmed cirrus. Distally, the cirrus widens and is surrounded by longitudinal muscles. The single ovary and bursa are positioned caudally to copulatory bulb. The bursa is connected to the common atrium and opens to the outside world through a vagina externa. The gonopore lies anterior to the vaginal opening.
There are notoriously many different definitions of species and methods of species delimitation, ... more There are notoriously many different definitions of species and methods of species delimitation, forcing taxonomists to make a long range of methodological decisions in species delimitation. Because of this, there are sometimes multiple viable competing methodological paths, which could lead to different ranking (or even grouping) decisions. As a result, it is often unclear what it means for a group to be recognized as a species, the groups recognized as species are not always comparable, and some have even called ranking decisions ‘subjective’. To mitigate the problems this causes for users of taxonomy and taxonomists, we propose that taxonomists across the tree of life should start preregistering their research design and criteria for species delimitation in advance of their research. We argue that even if it were to require additional effort, preregistering taxonomic research would strongly benefit taxonomy in the long term, by increasing the transparency and usability of taxonom...
In this paper, an overview is given of the Schizorhynchia collected during the I International Wo... more In this paper, an overview is given of the Schizorhynchia collected during the I International Workshop to Marine and Anchialine Meiofauna on the island of Lanzarote. Eight species previously unknown to science are described: Cheliplana curini n. sp., C. canariensis n. sp., C. sarnensis n. sp., Cheliplanilla cavavulcana n. sp., C. todaroi n. sp., Proschizorhynchus martinezi n. sp., Schizochilus lanzarotensis n. sp. and Pseudoschizorhynchoides timoshkini n. sp. These new species are primarily distinguished from their congeners by unique features in the genital system, especially the morphology of the copulatory hard structures. Additionally, new data are presented for the known species Carcharodorhynchus flavidus Brunet, 1967. We also make note of an undescribed species, probably belonging to the genus Proschizorhynchella Schilke, 1970, collected in Lanzarote. Carcharodorhynchus worsaae Reygel, Janssen & Artois, 2014, which was collected during the same sampling campaign, is also briefly mentioned. For Carcharodorhynchus flavidus, Proschizorhynchus martinezi n. sp. and Cheliplana curini n. sp., we also report on (new) localities outside of Lanzarote.
Urbanisation has become one of the major anthropogenic drivers behind insect decline in abundance... more Urbanisation has become one of the major anthropogenic drivers behind insect decline in abundance, biomass and species richness over the past decades. As a result, bees and other pollinators' natural habitats are reduced and degraded. Green roofs are frequently recommended as ways to counter the negative impacts of urbanisation on nature and enhance the amount of green space in cities. In this study we evaluated the pollinator (more specifically wild bees and hoverflies) diversity, abundance and species richness on twenty green roofs in Antwerp, Belgium. We analysed the influence of roof characteristics (age, surface area, height, percent cover of green space surrounding each site) on species richness or abundance of pollinators. In total we found 40 different wild bee species on the green roofs. None of the physical roof characteristics appear to explain differences in wild bees species richness and abundance. Neither could we attribute the difference in roof vegetation cover, ...
Here, the abundance of macro-invertebrates (Arthropoda and Gastropoda) of eight green roofs and t... more Here, the abundance of macro-invertebrates (Arthropoda and Gastropoda) of eight green roofs and their adjacent ground level habitats in the city of Antwerp, Belgium, is compared. All higher-level taxa found were present in both types of habitats without significant differences in their overall abundance between green roofs and ground level habitats. However, we found significant differences in abundances between the two types of habitats, when specific taxa were compared. Beetles (Coleoptera), isopods (Isopoda) and bees (Anthophila) were more abundant at ground level sites compared to green roofs, while for true bugs (Heteroptera) and cicadas (Auchenorrhyncha) the opposite was found. Our results support the idea that extensive green roofs in Belgium can provide a suitable habitat for different invertebrate taxa, but further research is needed to identify the true drivers behind differences in abundance between ground level and adjacent green roofs.
During their annual migration, avian migrants alternate stopover periods, for refuelling, with mi... more During their annual migration, avian migrants alternate stopover periods, for refuelling, with migratory flight bouts. We hypothesise that European Nightjars (Caprimulgus europaeus) adapt their daily migration tactics in association with biomes. We tracked the autumn migration of 24 European Nightjars, from breeding populations in Mongolia, Belgium and UK, using GPS-loggers and multi-sensor data loggers. We quantified crepuscular and nocturnal migration and foraging probabilities, as well as daily travel speed and flight altitude during active migration in response to biomes. Nightjars adopt a rush tactic, reflected in high daily travel speed, flight altitude and high migration probabilities at dusk and at night, when travelling through ecological barriers. Migration is slower in semi-open, hospitable biomes. This is reflected in high foraging probabilities at dusk, lower daily travel speed and lower migration probabilities at dusk. Our study shows how nightjars switch migration tac...
We describe a new genus of dalytyphloplanid rhabdocoels, with seven new species. Orostylis gen. n... more We describe a new genus of dalytyphloplanid rhabdocoels, with seven new species. Orostylis gen. nov. has a unique combination of characters including the presence of a sclerotised stylet, an anteriorly positioned male copulatory organ with the male genital pore in the buccal cavity, and the absence of an oviduct. The ovary empties directly into the intestinal lumen. Orostylis dohae sp. nov., Orostylis asinaraensis sp. nov., Orostylis caecus sp. nov., Orostylis distortus sp. nov., Orostylis donanae sp. nov., Orostylis gallicus sp. nov., and Orostylis timucuorum sp. nov. are distinguished from each other by the structure of the sclerotised parts of the male copulatory organ. Molecular and morphological evidence place the new genus in Neodalyellida Willems et al. 2006, and similarities with other taxa are discussed.
<i>Reinhardorhynchus riae</i> Diez, Reygel &amp; Artois sp. n. (Fig. 7–8) urn:lsi... more <i>Reinhardorhynchus riae</i> Diez, Reygel &amp; Artois sp. n. (Fig. 7–8) urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act: 65D70F61-74DB-458B-B5EA-18AB0F972270 <b>Material and distribution.</b> Observations on live specimens. Three whole mounts, one designated holotype (FMNH https://id.luomus.fi/ KV.651), the others reference material (HU XIII.3.33– XIII.3.34), and one serially-sectioned specimen (HU XIII.3.35) collected in Mala (Lanzarote, Canary Islands) (29°05'01"N; 13°26'59"W), in front of "Cuevita de Mala" (October 10, 2011), sand patch under loose macroalgae, coarse shell gravel, very clean, 12 m deep (Type Locality). One whole mount from the same locality (HU XIII.3.36) (October 8, 2011), medium-fine, calcareous sand from a large parch among rocks, poorly-oxygenated redox layer just below surface, 20 m deep. Four whole mounts and seven serially-sectioned specimens (HU XIII.3.37– XIII.3.47) collected in a sheltered beach, a bit south of Orzola (Lanzarote, Canary Islands) (29°13'23"N; 13°27'05"W) (October 6, 2011), medium-coarse sand, with holes from burrowing animals, taken at low tide, just below the water line. One whole mount (HU XIII.3.48) collected at the same locality (October 7, 2011), sample taken 0.4–0.5 m deep, coarse sand with lava rocks scattered around. Salinity 35 ‰ in all the localities. One whole mount (HU XIII.3.49) from Punta Negra (40°57'12"N, 08°13'43"E), Stintino, Sardinia, Italia (September 2018), on silty algae, 0.5 m deep, salinity 40 ‰. <b>Etymology.</b> Species dedicated to Ria Vanderspikken (Hasselt University), in acknowledgement of all her help in organising the sampling campaigns, archiving of literature and taking care of the HU specimen collection. <b>Diagnosis.</b> Species of <i>Reinhardorhynchus</i> <b>gen. n.</b> with a copulatory organ armed with two transverse spiny belts, a penis papilla, and two distal hooks. Prostate vesicle enclosed in a muscular bulb. This bulb ends in a pseudocuticular plate and is armed with two spiny rows being ±72 μm and ±55 μm long, respectively. Spines ±3 μm long at [...]
<i>Utelga pseudoheinckei</i> Karling, 1980 (Fig. 20D–E) urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act: 27A... more <i>Utelga pseudoheinckei</i> Karling, 1980 (Fig. 20D–E) urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act: 27A436A5-2FD7-4059-A2D3-F75FF5104526 Syn. <i>Utelga heinckei</i> in Brunet (1965) and Mack-Fira (1974). <b>Known distribution.</b> Korsfjord (Tekslo Island, Hordaland Fylke), Kleppholmen Island, and Fugloy Island, Norway; California, USA (Karling 1980). Marseille area, France (Brunet 1965); Black Sea, Romania (Mack-Fira 1974). <b>New records and material.</b> Observations on live specimens. Four whole mounts (HU XIII.4.34– XIII.4.37) from Punta Negra (40°57'12"N, 8°13'43"E), Stintino, Sardinia, Italy (September 2018), on silty algae, 0.5 m deep, salinity 40 ‰. <b>Remarks.</b> The morphology of the specimens corresponds with the description of Karling (1980). The general habitus and internal organisation are very similar to those in <i>U</i>. <i>heinckei</i>. The elongated copulatory bulb is 92– 108 μm long (<i>x̄</i> = 100 μm; n = 2) and 35 μm wide (n = 2). In a third specimen, not fully developed, the copulatory bulb is 49 μm long and 21 μm wide. The three hooks (Fig. 20D–E) at the distal end of the copulatory bulb are all of the same length, 5–8 μm long (<i>x̄</i> = 7 μm; n = 6), with a broad base, curved and with a sharp tip.
<i>Reinhardorhynchus beatrizae</i> Diez, Aguirre, Reygel &amp; Artois sp. n. (Fig... more <i>Reinhardorhynchus beatrizae</i> Diez, Aguirre, Reygel &amp; Artois sp. n. (Fig. 10) urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act: 7191A493-CCA1-421D-88D5-99AD3D7E5705 <b>Material and distribution.</b> Observations on live specimens, whole mounted afterwards. Two whole mounts from Las Sardinas (19°56'24"N; 76°46'41"W) (Type Locality), Guamá, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba (June 22, 2016), one of which is designated holotype (FMNH https://id.luomus.fi/ KV.649), the other one in HU (XIII.4.03), silty sand in rock pools protected from wave action, 0.3 m deep, salinity 33 ‰. Six whole mounts and three serially-sectioned specimens (in poor conditions) from Siboney (19°57'34"N; 75°42'07"W), Santiago de Cuba, Cuba (September 4, 2016; March 22 &amp; June 5, 2017), intertidal (upper 10 cm of fine-grained sand) up to 0.5 m deep (fine-grained sand rich in organic matter), salinity 33–35 ‰ (HU XIII.4.04– XIII.4.13). Two whole mounts from Bueycabón (19°57'38"N; 76°57'28"W), Santiago de Cuba, Cuba (February 6 &amp; 21, 2018), fine-grained sand rich in organic matter, 0.5 m deep, salinity 33 ‰ (HU XIII.4.14– XIII.4.15). <b>Etymology.</b> Species dedicated to Prof. Dr. Beatriz Martínez Daranas, researcher at the Marine Research Centre of Havana University, Cuba), specialist in taxonomy and ecology of seagrass and macroalgae. <b>Diagnosis.</b> Species of <i>Reinhardorhynchus</i> <b>gen. n.</b> with the copulatory bulb encompassing the prostate vesicle, an armed cirrus and two distal hooks. Cirrus armed with triangular, ±4-μm-long spines. Cirrus also includes a ±347- μm-long spiny belt. Proximally in the belt the spines are scale shaped and ±23 μm long. Proximal spines followed by a section bearing ±6-μm-long spines that runs distally and ends in the distal comb-shaped part, which is armed with ±32-μm-long spines. Larger hook ±101 μm long and ±59 μm wide at its base. Its base bears a ±45-μm-long and funnel-like hook. Smaller hook ±89 μm long and ±47 μm wide at its base. <b>Description.</b> Live specimens are 1.5–2 mm long, translucent, with two eyes (Fig. [...]
<i>Cheliplana sarnensis</i> Gobert, Reygel &amp; Artois, 2017 <b>Material e... more <i>Cheliplana sarnensis</i> Gobert, Reygel &amp; Artois, 2017 <b>Material examined</b>. <b>Reference material.</b> The holotype (SMNH Type 8907) and 4 whole mounts and 4 serially sectioned specimens from Lanzarote (HU VII.4.45–VIII.1.02). <b>Known distribution</b>. Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain (Gobert <i>et al.</i> 2017). <b>Remarks.</b> The caudal region of <i>Cheliplana sarnensis</i> is very extensible, similar to the situation in <i>C. varicauda</i>. As such, the overall body length depends on the state of contraction. The proboscis is provided with a pair of curved, 13–20-µm-long proboscis hooks, without denticles. The hook supports are small, only 7 μm long. The male genital apparatus has a single functional seminal vesicle. The copulatory bulb contains a proximal prostate vesicle and, more distally, an ~84-µm-long sclerotised ejaculatory duct. The distal part of the ejaculatory duct is transformed in a ~42-µm-long cirrus armed with very fine spines of uniform length. The vagina externa and bursa are connected to the ovary through three intertwined, funnel-shaped, sclerotised spermatic ducts.
<i>Cheliplana rubescens</i> Brunet, 1966 <b>Material examined</b>. <b&... more <i>Cheliplana rubescens</i> Brunet, 1966 <b>Material examined</b>. <b>Reference material.</b> 2 whole-mounted specimens (SMNH 82509, SMNH 97669) and 1 serially sectioned specimen (SMNH Type 3032). <b>Known distribution</b>. Golf de Marseille, France (Brunet 1966, 1968). Tjärnö, Sweden (Willems <i>et al</i>. 2009). Sylt, Germany (Armonies 2020). <b>Remarks</b>. Our observations correspond to those of Brunet (1966). Live specimens have a bright red pigmentation and are 1–1.2 mm long. A single, subterminal, continuous haptic girdle is present. The proboscis is armed with a pair of smooth, simple, curved hooks, 10–12 μm long. The long prepharyngeal tube is provided with rows of little pointed expansions, which are not sclerotised. The pharynx possesses small, sclerotised plates, arranged in circles (Brunet 1966).A single, large testis is located ventrally of the pharynx.According to Brunet (1966), the testis appears bilobed in many specimens. The vasa deferentia are paired and run posteriorly to a pair of seminal vesicles. The genital opening is situated in the posterior quarter of the body. The elongate male copulatory bulb is ~100 μm long and contains a prostatic vesicle in the slightly expanded proximal part. The distal half of the ejaculatory duct is transformed into a sclerotised cirrus, ornamented with longitudinal folds or 'wrinkles'. The copulatory bulb connects to the common genital atrium via a long male atrium. An unpaired ovary is situated near the posterior body end. A long, slender female duct connects the ovary to the common genital atrium. A small uterus also connects to the common genital atrium. The common genital atrium is surrounded by cement glands. A large, syncytial bursa lies adjacent to the ovary and is connected to the outside world via a long, weakly muscular vagina externa. The distal end of the vagina is widened to form a small bulb. The vaginal opening is situated posterior to the common genital opening.
<i>Cheliplana setosa</i> Evdonin, 1971 Fig. 9A–D <b>Material examined. New mate... more <i>Cheliplana setosa</i> Evdonin, 1971 Fig. 9A–D <b>Material examined. New material.</b> CANADA • 1 whole mount; British Columbia, Calvert Island, Foggy Cove; 51°39'07"N, 128°08'32"W; 9 Apr. 2016; medium-grained sand in between boulders in the lower intertidal; MI4193 • 1 whole mount; British Columbia, Bamfield, Brady Beach; 48°49'40"N, 125°09'12"W; 3 Jun. 2015; mediumgrained sand in lower intertidal; MI4194. <b>Reference material.</b> 1 whole-mounted specimen (SMNH 90403) and 1 serially sectioned specimen (SMNH 102990) from California, United States. <b>Known distribution</b>. Posyet, Peter the Great Gulf, Russia (Evdonin 1977). Monterey Bay, California, United States (Karling 1983). Ría de Villaviciosa, near San Martin, Spain (Noreña <i>et al.</i> 2007). <b>Remarks</b>. Live specimens are ~ 1.5 mm long. Specimens are yellowish to pinkish in colour (Fig. 9A). The proboscis bears curved proboscis hooks measuring 18–20 μm (h, Fig. 9C). Hook supports are about 12 μm long in the specimens from Canada (hs, Fig. 9C). Rod-shaped, weakly sclerotised proboscis sidepieces were observed by Karling (1983). The prepharyngeal tube is armed with spines (ppc, Fig. 9A). A single, large testis is situated alongside the pharynx (ph, t, Fig. 9A). Karling (1983) reports a lobe containing sperm at the posterior end of the testis. A pair of seminal vesicles, one of which ending blindly, the other connecting to the testis via an unpaired vas deferens, enter the proximal end of the copulatory bulb (cb, vs, Fig. 9A–B,D). The copulatory bulb is oviform (cb, Fig. 9A–B,D). In the Russian specimens, Evdonin (1971) measures a size range of 110 to 120 μm for the copulatory bulb. The Californian specimen described by Karling (1983) possesses a copulatory bulb of ~130 μm. The copulatory bulbs in the new specimens from Canada are somewhat larger still, measuring 130–160 μm. The copulatory bulb holds a cirrus of 40–60 μm (Russia and California) (Evdonin 1971; Karling 1983) or 68–85 μm (Canada) (ci, Fig. 9 A–B,D). The cirrus can be divided in three [...]
<i>Cheliplana orthocirra</i> Ax, 1959 <b>Material examined. New material.</b... more <i>Cheliplana orthocirra</i> Ax, 1959 <b>Material examined. New material.</b> ITALY • 1 whole mount; Sardinia, Asinara National Park, Cala del Bianco; 41°04'27"N, 8°20'12"E; 25 Sep. 2014; medium-grained sand between <i>Posidonia</i> sp., at 2.5 m deep; HU X.2.40. <b>Note.</b> No reference material was available to us at the time of this study. <b>Known distribution</b>. Florya, Sea of Marmara, Turkey (Ax 1959). Southern and Western Sweden (Atherton &amp; Jondelius 2020). <b>Remarks</b>. The proboscis hooks are smooth, fairly straight and ~11 μm long in the specimen from Sardinia. Ax (1959) does not give any measurements except those pertaining to the cirrus. <i>Cheliplana orthocirra</i> has a pair of partially fused testes, positioned on one side of the pharynx. The copulatory bulb is positioned in the posterior half of the body and contains a proximal prostatic vesicle, which connects directly to the distal cirrus. A pair of large, globular seminal vesicles and prostatic glands enter the proximal end of the copulatory bulb. The cirrus is armed with very fine spines over its entire length. These spines decrease in size towards the distal end of the cirrus. A single gonopore and bursa are present near the caudal end of the specimen. In the specimen from Sardinia, the cirrus is 35 μm long, which is significantly shorter than the ~56 μm reported by Ax (1959). Nevertheless, given the cirrus shape and generally similar internal morphology, we feel confident in ascribing this specimen to <i>C. orthocirra</i>.
<i>Cheliplana spuriaseminalis</i> Diez, Reygel &amp; Artois, 2019 <b>Materi... more <i>Cheliplana spuriaseminalis</i> Diez, Reygel &amp; Artois, 2019 <b>Material examined.</b> None. <b>Known distribution</b>. Bueycabón, Cuba (Diez <i>et al.</i> 2019). <b>Remarks (summarised from literature)</b>. Specimens are pinkish and have a body length of 0.9–1 mm when whole mounted. The proboscis is armed with 16-µm-long, curved hooks. The muscular hook supports measure 5 µm. The spiny prepharyngeal cavity is twice as long as the pharynx. A single testis lies caudally to the pharynx. Seminal vesicles are paired and empty proximally into the copulatory bulb. Only one seminal vesicle is functional and filled with sperm, the other one is atrophied, empty and not connected to the testis. The cylindrical, curved copulatory bulb (83–105 µm x 14–17 µm) comprises the prostate vesicle, one or more accessory glands and a 31-µm-long, unarmed cirrus. Distally, the cirrus widens and is surrounded by longitudinal muscles. The single ovary and bursa are positioned caudally to copulatory bulb. The bursa is connected to the common atrium and opens to the outside world through a vagina externa. The gonopore lies anterior to the vaginal opening.
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