A new species of Anthopleura (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Actiniaria) from the Mexican Pacific

• DOI: 10.1007/s12526-024-01464-2
• Publication Date: 2024-09-02T14:02:59Z
• Authors: Aurora Vassallo-A...; Ricardo González-...; Juan J. Morrone; Fabián H. Acuña; Jeferson A. Durán...; Sérgio N. Stampar; Francisco A. Solí...; Gerardo Rivas
• Keywords: Anthozoa

Abstract Anthopleura is one of the most speciose genera within family Actiniidae. This genus particularly characterized by its members having both verrucae on column and acrorhagi margin. In region Baja California Peninsula, in Mexican Pacific, six species have been documented, which are relatively well defined their morphological characteristics coloration patterns. During recent visits to intertidal zone Cerritos, Sur, we found individuals displaying a variety colorations that do not agree with known for region. We collected examined specimens four morphotypes , analyzing them integrating information about external internal anatomy, as cnidome. Additionally, obtained analyzed genetic sequences from mitochondrial nuclear markers through phylogenetic analyses. Our results reveal belong single, undescribed . provide detailed description variata sp. nov., patterns, circumscribed, palmate, pedunculate marginal sphincter muscle, harboring zooxanthellae, lacking directive mesenteries, among other characteristics. nov. 49th seventh documented Pacific.