Pseudochrysogorgia bellona n. gen., n. sp.: a new genus and species of chrysogorgiid octocoral (Coelenterata, Anthozoa) from the Coral Sea

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:2010
Authors:E. Pante, France S. C.
Journal:Zoosystema
Volume:32
Start Page:595
Pagination:595-612
Date Published:2010
Abstract:

A new genus and species of deep-sea Chrysogorgiidae Verrill, 1883, Pseudochrysogorgia bellona n. gen. n. sp., is described from colonies collected in the Coral Sea, West of New Caledonia (southwestern Pacifi c Ocean). Th ese specimens bear resemblance to the genera Chrysogorgia Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1864 (dichotomously-subdivided branches arising from the main stem in a spiraling fashion; polyps characterized by ornamented sclerites) and Metallo gorgia Versluys, 1902 (colony monopodial, hexagonal branching pattern). Additional material collected North of New Zealand (Otara Seamount) is used to complete the description of this new genus. Its taxonomic rank is discussed in light of morphology- and DNA-based phylogenetic inference and analysis of genetic distances among deep-sea chrysogorgiid genera.

URL:http://www.mnhn.fr/museum/front/medias/publication/31492_z2010n4a4.pdf
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