Keywords
Gulf of Mexico
taxonomy
conchology
morphology
How to Cite
Abstract
The genus Electroma comprises small to medium bivalves that have been marginally studied. These bivalves are found mainly in the Indic and Pacific Oceans. Recently, E. vexillum has been reported as an exotic and introduced species in the Mediterranean and tropical Atlantic. However, due to the lack of information about the genus, the Atlantic reports and species present problems in their identification. In this study, we describe the conchology and morphology of E. spinosa sp. nov. collected in the Gulf of Mexico, and present literature-based diagnosis for the other species of this genus. Collected specimens were fixed and preserved in 70% ethanol and were observed under the microscope; X ray microtomography was performed for the detailed observation of the shell and dissections were performed for the detailed observation of the morphology. Literature with descriptions or images of the other species of the genus was tracked down for the elaboration of diagnosis and identification keys that enable their identification. The right anterior wing and the nacreous zone were useful characters in the identification of Electroma species, while other characteristics such as the shell´s form and sculpture must be used with caution due to the high intraspecific variation in the genus. The presence of pigmentated structures with a possible photosensory function in the mantle is reported for the first time within the Vulsellidae family. Electroma´s status as exotic or native in the tropical Atlantic and the validity of E. electra are discussed.
References
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