The Watts Towers (WT), an iconic Los Angeles artwork created by Sabato Rodia in 1921–1954, is cov... more The Watts Towers (WT), an iconic Los Angeles artwork created by Sabato Rodia in 1921–1954, is covered with mosaics whose elements include thousands of mollusk shells. Little is known about the diversity or sources of these shells. Here, we document the diversity of mollusk shells present in the WT and use data on their characteristics to make inferences about their provenance. We identified shells of 34 species, 24 of them bivalves (clams and their relatives) and 10 gastropods (snails). Almost all (29/34) of these species are native to southern California shorelines, especially those of bays and estuaries. Rodia could have accessed these sites on foot, by automobile, or by using the Red Car trolley system. Some of the bivalve shells bear drill holes made by naticid gastropods, suggesting that they were collected post-mortem, presumably after they had washed up on beaches. These observations are consistent with the sparse documentary evidence on the origin of the shells of the WT. This detailed information on the diversity of the seashells of the WT should be of utility to conservators, and of interest to scholars of and visitors to the WT.
Although epibiosis is common in polyplacophorans, we describe an unusual presence of epibionts an... more Although epibiosis is common in polyplacophorans, we describe an unusual presence of epibionts and endobionts in a single adult specimen of Chiton articulatus collected in Guerrero, Mexico, from an eroded habitat of crevices with high wave activity. The epibiont and endobiont specimens covered nearly 90% of the central and lateral areas of the chiton valves while the border of mantle girdle showed no epibiosis. Crustose and filamentous algae, and crustacean arthropods from two common barnacle families, Chthamalidae and Balanidae, represent the observed epibionts. Polychaete (Annelida), bivalve mollusks from two families: Pteriidae (Pinctada mazatlanica) and Mytilidae (Leiosolenus aristatus), and crustacean arthro-pods from the burrowing barnacle family Cryptophialidae (Cryptophialus wainwrighti) represent the observed endobionts. In addition, finding of Cryptophialus wainwrighti represents a new geographic range extension from the type locality in Sinaloa to Guerrero. Epibiosis studies of invertebrates in the intertidal rocky shore, such as the dominant C. articulatus, can assist in understanding ecological relationships and patterns of diversity in coastal communities.
The Hong Kong Bivalvia have heen studied extensively during the last 30 years. This inventory pro... more The Hong Kong Bivalvia have heen studied extensively during the last 30 years. This inventory provides a summary of 167 publications that include Hong Kong hivalves, either as primary objects of the research or as ancillary objects of broader studies. Two hundred and seventy-eight species are incorporated in the list with details of locality and habitats where available. Also included is a summary of bivalve literature as it relates to biology, ecology, physiology, biomonitoring, biofouling, and introduced species.
Eight species from three bivalve families were collected and/or observed in the Middle Florida Ke... more Eight species from three bivalve families were collected and/or observed in the Middle Florida Keys. Diagnoses based on shell characters are given for Botula fusca, Lithophaga antillarum, L. aristata, and L. bisulcata in the Mytilidae, and Gastrochaena hians in the Gastrochaenidae. Shell and anatomical comparisons are made for three members of the Petricolidae, Petricola lapicida, Choristodon robustum, and Choristodon sp.
Bivalve Seashells of Western South America is the third in a series of monographs on the eastern ... more Bivalve Seashells of Western South America is the third in a series of monographs on the eastern Pacific Ocean marine bivalve fauna. The scope of this monograph is the fauna from the Perú-Chile Province, an area that extends from Punta Aguja, Piura, Perú (5.8°S), and continues south to the southern tip of Isla Chiloé, Los Lagos, Chile (43.4°S), considering the species occurring from the intertidal zone to the deep sea. We do not include the Chilean possession of Isla de Pascua [Easter Island], which is very distant from the continent and has an altogether different and unique fauna. Through a literature review and direct examination of specimens in museum and university collections, a marked decrease in known bivalve diversity has been observed when comparing the fauna from the Perú-Chile Province with similar northern latitudes. In the Alaskan, Oregonian and Californian Provinces, we have documented over 470 bivalve species, and 892 species in the Panamic Province, whereas we currently only have records for 201 verified named species from the Perú-Chile Province. In addition we have isolated an additional 38 marine bivalve species that are potentially new to science in the Perú-Chile Province, along with another 26 species which might range into the northern or southern limits of the Province. If the potentially new species and marginally ranged species are included, we would still have only 265 species in the region, some 45% less than the temperate regions in the northern Pacific. One factor that could help to understand the observed decrease in the number of species present in the southeastern Pacific may be under-sampling, especially in deeper waters. This fact is clearly evidenced when considering the high number of new species discovered in the study area. In addition, a very narrow continental shelf throughout much of the Province affords fewer shelf habitats, and may also be leading to a much lower bivalve diversity.
The type specimens of three species from Olsson’s (1961) book on the Panamic Bivalvia - Orobitell... more The type specimens of three species from Olsson’s (1961) book on the Panamic Bivalvia - Orobitella margarita, O. peruviana, and O. zorrita - were incorrectly figured in the original publication. New images of the types and original labels are provided here and for the first time associated with their correct names. Descriptions and synonymies of these species are given.
I appreciate having an opportunity to respond to Dr.
Kleemann’s hypothesis that Botula kleemanni ... more I appreciate having an opportunity to respond to Dr. Kleemann’s hypothesis that Botula kleemanni Valentich- Scott, 2008, might be better included in another genus. While his suggestions have merit, I find many of his conclusions to be lacking, and will outline the discrepancies below.
Bivalve mollusks comprise a significant percentage of the marine benthic fauna, with about 8,000 ... more Bivalve mollusks comprise a significant percentage of the marine benthic fauna, with about 8,000 living species (Boss, 1982). The class is exclusively aquatic, though some intertidal species can survive many days out of water, and inhabitants of ephemeral lakes can aestivate in moist sediments for several months. Marine bivalves are found in all ocean habitats, from the intertidal splash zone to the deepest troughs and basins. Adults range in size from less than one millimeter in length to tropical species with shells nearly 2 meters long.
Identification of most bivalve mollusk taxa have been traditionally based entirely on shell characters, however, to understand the ecology of a selected species requires knowledge of the anatomy. The study of anatomy, along with the shell structure, assists in the identification of phylogenetic relationships and establishes evolutionary trends.
Most bivalves feed by filtering small particles on their ctenidia and further sorting the material on their palps before ingestion. There are carnivorous species, primarily in the Order Septibranchida, that literally suck in prey as they pass by the predator. All members of the class lack jaws or a radula, and are not able to chew or break up food in the mouth (with the exception of the "shipworms" in the Teredinidae).
Some smaller bivalves are commensal, chiefly belonging to the superfamily Galeommatoidea. They have been found in association with sponges, cnidarians, polychaetes, crustaceans, echinoderms, echiurans, sipunculans, and ascideans. commensal relationships such as these provide protection to the bivalves, and for many species, an expanded water flow and food supply. Symbiotic relationships have been documented for many members of the Lucinoidea, which possess chemoautotrophic bacteria in their ctenidia.
Twenty-one species of intertidal and subtidal coral-boring bivalves from southeastern Thailand ar... more Twenty-one species of intertidal and subtidal coral-boring bivalves from southeastern Thailand are described and illustrated. The species represent five families: Mytilidae, Petricolidae, Trapezidae, Pholadidae, and Gastrochaenidae. Each species account includes a description of the shell, and whenever possible, a description of the living animal. Siphonal characters are presented for the first time for many of the treated taxa. The coral-boring fauna of the study region represents the highest diversity yet recorded in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Botula kleemanni Valentich-Scott, new species, is herein described and illustrated.
Six genera and 16 species of Panamic Pandoridae are described
and illustrated. Three species are ... more Six genera and 16 species of Panamic Pandoridae are described and illustrated. Three species are described as new, namely Pandora (Pandora) rachaelae, Pandora (Pandorella) sarahae, and Clidiophora dorsorectus, and one new genus, Coania. Diagnoses are provided for the genera, subgenera, and species, as well as illustrations of the type specimens of the nominate species. Frenamya, Clidiophora, Heteroclidus, and Foveadens are herein elevated to generic rank. The high diversity of Pandoridae in the tropical Panamic Province is compared with other tropical regions along with more temperate climes.
While reviewing the Glycymerididae of the Panamic Province we encountered an unusual species of T... more While reviewing the Glycymerididae of the Panamic Province we encountered an unusual species of Tucetona Iredale, 1931, in the Gulf of California, Mexico. After examining type and related specimens at museums in the USA and UK, we have determined the species is new to science. It is herein named Tucetona isabellae. In our description we use morphological characteristics outlined in Tschudin (2001) and Squires (2010).
Eight species from three bivalve families were collected and/or observed in the MiddleFlorida Key... more Eight species from three bivalve families were collected and/or observed in the MiddleFlorida Keys. Diagnoses based on shell characters are given for Botula fusca, Lithophagaantillarum, L. aristata, and L. bisulcata in the Mytilidae, and Gastrochaena hians in theGastrochaenidae. Shell and anatomical comparisons are made for three members of thePetricolidae, Petricola lapicida, Choristodon robustum, and Choristodon sp. A, which isnot attributable to a described Recent Choristodon species. These bivalves bore into limestone and dead coral, and in one case into living coral.Observations substantiated previous findings of primary chemical boring processes in Botulaand Petricola.
While preparing a manual on the marine bivalves of the Panamic Province, we have found three spec... more While preparing a manual on the marine bivalves of the Panamic Province, we have found three species of the Periplomatidae that lack names. In this paper, we describe two new species from Mexico, Periploma skoglundae and P. hendrickxi, and one new species from El Salvador, P. kaiserae.
While preparing a review of the bivalve mollusk fauna of the Panamic Province, we encountered a c... more While preparing a review of the bivalve mollusk fauna of the Panamic Province, we encountered a conspicuous, colorful species of the genus Chama Linnaeus, 1758, that could not be identified with any named species. After examining type specimens at The Natural History Museum, London (BMNH), the United States National Museum of Natural History (USNM), the Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia (ANSP), the California Academy of Sciences (CAS), the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (LACM), and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH), we have concluded that this species is new to science.
The marine bivalve mollusks from Arctic Alaska, U.S.A., to northern Peru have been the subject of... more The marine bivalve mollusks from Arctic Alaska, U.S.A., to northern Peru have been the subject of our two previously published books. We have begun research on a third eastern Pacific Ocean bivalve monograph, to be entitled Bivalve Seashells ofWestern South America. The study region originates at Punta Aguja, Piura, Peru (5.8°S), and continues south to the southern tip of Isla Chiloe, Los Lagos, Chile (43.4°S). As with the previous monographs, we will cover species that occur from the intertidal zone to the deep sea. As we have reviewed the literature for the Peru-Chile Province, we have noted a marked decrease in bivalve diversity compared with similar northern latitudes. In the Alaskan, Oregonian and Californian Provinces, we have documented over 470 bivalve species, in the Panamic Province 892 species, whereas we currently only have records for 217 species from the Peru-Chile Province. The decrease in the number of species present in the southern region may be a function of under-sampling, or may represent a much lower diversity, or a combination of both factors.
The non-gastropod molluscan types currently housed in the Department of Invertebrate Zoology at t... more The non-gastropod molluscan types currently housed in the Department of Invertebrate Zoology at the Santa Barbara Museum are listed. Three hundred seventeen type lots are reported, representing 211 recent species and 9 species originally described as fossils. Each type lot recorded includes a complete citation, type locality, and the current type status of the specimens. An author index and alphabetic index are provided. Lectotype designations are made for three species: Mopalia chacei Berry, 1919; Placiphorella pacifica Berry, 1919; and Venus fordii Yates, 1890.
A relatively common central and southern California infaunal bivalve species, Saxicavella nybakke... more A relatively common central and southern California infaunal bivalve species, Saxicavella nybakkeni Scott, sp. nov., is described. Significant siphonal, mantle, and reproductive differences between Saxlcavella and other members of the Hiatellidae necessitate the erection of a new subfamily, Saxicavellinae Scott, subfam. nov.
In spite of the high species diversity and commercial importance of bivalve mollusks, there appea... more In spite of the high species diversity and commercial importance of bivalve mollusks, there appears to be a recent decline in the amount of published research on this fascinating group (Morton, 1992). With this in mind, Brian Morton, Gene Coan, and Paul Scott set about to generate new interest in bivalves, and present an opportunity for many bivalve workers to exchange ideas and techniques. The 1991 bivalve symposium in Berkeley, California, sponsored by the American Malacological Union and the Western Society of Malacologists, was the initial step in bringing researchers together (see proceedings in American Malacological Bulletin 9(2):105-215). Following the symposium, the California Malacozoological Society and the Western Society of Malacologists sponsored a workshop at Moss Landing, California from 5-1 9 July 1991. The eight papers that follow in this issue of Ihe Veliger represent research that was begun during the workshop.
The Watts Towers (WT), an iconic Los Angeles artwork created by Sabato Rodia in 1921–1954, is cov... more The Watts Towers (WT), an iconic Los Angeles artwork created by Sabato Rodia in 1921–1954, is covered with mosaics whose elements include thousands of mollusk shells. Little is known about the diversity or sources of these shells. Here, we document the diversity of mollusk shells present in the WT and use data on their characteristics to make inferences about their provenance. We identified shells of 34 species, 24 of them bivalves (clams and their relatives) and 10 gastropods (snails). Almost all (29/34) of these species are native to southern California shorelines, especially those of bays and estuaries. Rodia could have accessed these sites on foot, by automobile, or by using the Red Car trolley system. Some of the bivalve shells bear drill holes made by naticid gastropods, suggesting that they were collected post-mortem, presumably after they had washed up on beaches. These observations are consistent with the sparse documentary evidence on the origin of the shells of the WT. This detailed information on the diversity of the seashells of the WT should be of utility to conservators, and of interest to scholars of and visitors to the WT.
Although epibiosis is common in polyplacophorans, we describe an unusual presence of epibionts an... more Although epibiosis is common in polyplacophorans, we describe an unusual presence of epibionts and endobionts in a single adult specimen of Chiton articulatus collected in Guerrero, Mexico, from an eroded habitat of crevices with high wave activity. The epibiont and endobiont specimens covered nearly 90% of the central and lateral areas of the chiton valves while the border of mantle girdle showed no epibiosis. Crustose and filamentous algae, and crustacean arthropods from two common barnacle families, Chthamalidae and Balanidae, represent the observed epibionts. Polychaete (Annelida), bivalve mollusks from two families: Pteriidae (Pinctada mazatlanica) and Mytilidae (Leiosolenus aristatus), and crustacean arthro-pods from the burrowing barnacle family Cryptophialidae (Cryptophialus wainwrighti) represent the observed endobionts. In addition, finding of Cryptophialus wainwrighti represents a new geographic range extension from the type locality in Sinaloa to Guerrero. Epibiosis studies of invertebrates in the intertidal rocky shore, such as the dominant C. articulatus, can assist in understanding ecological relationships and patterns of diversity in coastal communities.
The Hong Kong Bivalvia have heen studied extensively during the last 30 years. This inventory pro... more The Hong Kong Bivalvia have heen studied extensively during the last 30 years. This inventory provides a summary of 167 publications that include Hong Kong hivalves, either as primary objects of the research or as ancillary objects of broader studies. Two hundred and seventy-eight species are incorporated in the list with details of locality and habitats where available. Also included is a summary of bivalve literature as it relates to biology, ecology, physiology, biomonitoring, biofouling, and introduced species.
Eight species from three bivalve families were collected and/or observed in the Middle Florida Ke... more Eight species from three bivalve families were collected and/or observed in the Middle Florida Keys. Diagnoses based on shell characters are given for Botula fusca, Lithophaga antillarum, L. aristata, and L. bisulcata in the Mytilidae, and Gastrochaena hians in the Gastrochaenidae. Shell and anatomical comparisons are made for three members of the Petricolidae, Petricola lapicida, Choristodon robustum, and Choristodon sp.
Bivalve Seashells of Western South America is the third in a series of monographs on the eastern ... more Bivalve Seashells of Western South America is the third in a series of monographs on the eastern Pacific Ocean marine bivalve fauna. The scope of this monograph is the fauna from the Perú-Chile Province, an area that extends from Punta Aguja, Piura, Perú (5.8°S), and continues south to the southern tip of Isla Chiloé, Los Lagos, Chile (43.4°S), considering the species occurring from the intertidal zone to the deep sea. We do not include the Chilean possession of Isla de Pascua [Easter Island], which is very distant from the continent and has an altogether different and unique fauna. Through a literature review and direct examination of specimens in museum and university collections, a marked decrease in known bivalve diversity has been observed when comparing the fauna from the Perú-Chile Province with similar northern latitudes. In the Alaskan, Oregonian and Californian Provinces, we have documented over 470 bivalve species, and 892 species in the Panamic Province, whereas we currently only have records for 201 verified named species from the Perú-Chile Province. In addition we have isolated an additional 38 marine bivalve species that are potentially new to science in the Perú-Chile Province, along with another 26 species which might range into the northern or southern limits of the Province. If the potentially new species and marginally ranged species are included, we would still have only 265 species in the region, some 45% less than the temperate regions in the northern Pacific. One factor that could help to understand the observed decrease in the number of species present in the southeastern Pacific may be under-sampling, especially in deeper waters. This fact is clearly evidenced when considering the high number of new species discovered in the study area. In addition, a very narrow continental shelf throughout much of the Province affords fewer shelf habitats, and may also be leading to a much lower bivalve diversity.
The type specimens of three species from Olsson’s (1961) book on the Panamic Bivalvia - Orobitell... more The type specimens of three species from Olsson’s (1961) book on the Panamic Bivalvia - Orobitella margarita, O. peruviana, and O. zorrita - were incorrectly figured in the original publication. New images of the types and original labels are provided here and for the first time associated with their correct names. Descriptions and synonymies of these species are given.
I appreciate having an opportunity to respond to Dr.
Kleemann’s hypothesis that Botula kleemanni ... more I appreciate having an opportunity to respond to Dr. Kleemann’s hypothesis that Botula kleemanni Valentich- Scott, 2008, might be better included in another genus. While his suggestions have merit, I find many of his conclusions to be lacking, and will outline the discrepancies below.
Bivalve mollusks comprise a significant percentage of the marine benthic fauna, with about 8,000 ... more Bivalve mollusks comprise a significant percentage of the marine benthic fauna, with about 8,000 living species (Boss, 1982). The class is exclusively aquatic, though some intertidal species can survive many days out of water, and inhabitants of ephemeral lakes can aestivate in moist sediments for several months. Marine bivalves are found in all ocean habitats, from the intertidal splash zone to the deepest troughs and basins. Adults range in size from less than one millimeter in length to tropical species with shells nearly 2 meters long.
Identification of most bivalve mollusk taxa have been traditionally based entirely on shell characters, however, to understand the ecology of a selected species requires knowledge of the anatomy. The study of anatomy, along with the shell structure, assists in the identification of phylogenetic relationships and establishes evolutionary trends.
Most bivalves feed by filtering small particles on their ctenidia and further sorting the material on their palps before ingestion. There are carnivorous species, primarily in the Order Septibranchida, that literally suck in prey as they pass by the predator. All members of the class lack jaws or a radula, and are not able to chew or break up food in the mouth (with the exception of the "shipworms" in the Teredinidae).
Some smaller bivalves are commensal, chiefly belonging to the superfamily Galeommatoidea. They have been found in association with sponges, cnidarians, polychaetes, crustaceans, echinoderms, echiurans, sipunculans, and ascideans. commensal relationships such as these provide protection to the bivalves, and for many species, an expanded water flow and food supply. Symbiotic relationships have been documented for many members of the Lucinoidea, which possess chemoautotrophic bacteria in their ctenidia.
Twenty-one species of intertidal and subtidal coral-boring bivalves from southeastern Thailand ar... more Twenty-one species of intertidal and subtidal coral-boring bivalves from southeastern Thailand are described and illustrated. The species represent five families: Mytilidae, Petricolidae, Trapezidae, Pholadidae, and Gastrochaenidae. Each species account includes a description of the shell, and whenever possible, a description of the living animal. Siphonal characters are presented for the first time for many of the treated taxa. The coral-boring fauna of the study region represents the highest diversity yet recorded in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Botula kleemanni Valentich-Scott, new species, is herein described and illustrated.
Six genera and 16 species of Panamic Pandoridae are described
and illustrated. Three species are ... more Six genera and 16 species of Panamic Pandoridae are described and illustrated. Three species are described as new, namely Pandora (Pandora) rachaelae, Pandora (Pandorella) sarahae, and Clidiophora dorsorectus, and one new genus, Coania. Diagnoses are provided for the genera, subgenera, and species, as well as illustrations of the type specimens of the nominate species. Frenamya, Clidiophora, Heteroclidus, and Foveadens are herein elevated to generic rank. The high diversity of Pandoridae in the tropical Panamic Province is compared with other tropical regions along with more temperate climes.
While reviewing the Glycymerididae of the Panamic Province we encountered an unusual species of T... more While reviewing the Glycymerididae of the Panamic Province we encountered an unusual species of Tucetona Iredale, 1931, in the Gulf of California, Mexico. After examining type and related specimens at museums in the USA and UK, we have determined the species is new to science. It is herein named Tucetona isabellae. In our description we use morphological characteristics outlined in Tschudin (2001) and Squires (2010).
Eight species from three bivalve families were collected and/or observed in the MiddleFlorida Key... more Eight species from three bivalve families were collected and/or observed in the MiddleFlorida Keys. Diagnoses based on shell characters are given for Botula fusca, Lithophagaantillarum, L. aristata, and L. bisulcata in the Mytilidae, and Gastrochaena hians in theGastrochaenidae. Shell and anatomical comparisons are made for three members of thePetricolidae, Petricola lapicida, Choristodon robustum, and Choristodon sp. A, which isnot attributable to a described Recent Choristodon species. These bivalves bore into limestone and dead coral, and in one case into living coral.Observations substantiated previous findings of primary chemical boring processes in Botulaand Petricola.
While preparing a manual on the marine bivalves of the Panamic Province, we have found three spec... more While preparing a manual on the marine bivalves of the Panamic Province, we have found three species of the Periplomatidae that lack names. In this paper, we describe two new species from Mexico, Periploma skoglundae and P. hendrickxi, and one new species from El Salvador, P. kaiserae.
While preparing a review of the bivalve mollusk fauna of the Panamic Province, we encountered a c... more While preparing a review of the bivalve mollusk fauna of the Panamic Province, we encountered a conspicuous, colorful species of the genus Chama Linnaeus, 1758, that could not be identified with any named species. After examining type specimens at The Natural History Museum, London (BMNH), the United States National Museum of Natural History (USNM), the Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia (ANSP), the California Academy of Sciences (CAS), the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (LACM), and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH), we have concluded that this species is new to science.
The marine bivalve mollusks from Arctic Alaska, U.S.A., to northern Peru have been the subject of... more The marine bivalve mollusks from Arctic Alaska, U.S.A., to northern Peru have been the subject of our two previously published books. We have begun research on a third eastern Pacific Ocean bivalve monograph, to be entitled Bivalve Seashells ofWestern South America. The study region originates at Punta Aguja, Piura, Peru (5.8°S), and continues south to the southern tip of Isla Chiloe, Los Lagos, Chile (43.4°S). As with the previous monographs, we will cover species that occur from the intertidal zone to the deep sea. As we have reviewed the literature for the Peru-Chile Province, we have noted a marked decrease in bivalve diversity compared with similar northern latitudes. In the Alaskan, Oregonian and Californian Provinces, we have documented over 470 bivalve species, in the Panamic Province 892 species, whereas we currently only have records for 217 species from the Peru-Chile Province. The decrease in the number of species present in the southern region may be a function of under-sampling, or may represent a much lower diversity, or a combination of both factors.
The non-gastropod molluscan types currently housed in the Department of Invertebrate Zoology at t... more The non-gastropod molluscan types currently housed in the Department of Invertebrate Zoology at the Santa Barbara Museum are listed. Three hundred seventeen type lots are reported, representing 211 recent species and 9 species originally described as fossils. Each type lot recorded includes a complete citation, type locality, and the current type status of the specimens. An author index and alphabetic index are provided. Lectotype designations are made for three species: Mopalia chacei Berry, 1919; Placiphorella pacifica Berry, 1919; and Venus fordii Yates, 1890.
A relatively common central and southern California infaunal bivalve species, Saxicavella nybakke... more A relatively common central and southern California infaunal bivalve species, Saxicavella nybakkeni Scott, sp. nov., is described. Significant siphonal, mantle, and reproductive differences between Saxlcavella and other members of the Hiatellidae necessitate the erection of a new subfamily, Saxicavellinae Scott, subfam. nov.
In spite of the high species diversity and commercial importance of bivalve mollusks, there appea... more In spite of the high species diversity and commercial importance of bivalve mollusks, there appears to be a recent decline in the amount of published research on this fascinating group (Morton, 1992). With this in mind, Brian Morton, Gene Coan, and Paul Scott set about to generate new interest in bivalves, and present an opportunity for many bivalve workers to exchange ideas and techniques. The 1991 bivalve symposium in Berkeley, California, sponsored by the American Malacological Union and the Western Society of Malacologists, was the initial step in bringing researchers together (see proceedings in American Malacological Bulletin 9(2):105-215). Following the symposium, the California Malacozoological Society and the Western Society of Malacologists sponsored a workshop at Moss Landing, California from 5-1 9 July 1991. The eight papers that follow in this issue of Ihe Veliger represent research that was begun during the workshop.
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Papers by Paul Valentich-scott
Piura, Perú (5.8°S), and continues south to the southern tip of Isla Chiloé, Los Lagos, Chile (43.4°S), considering the species occurring from the intertidal zone to the deep sea. We do not include the Chilean possession of Isla de Pascua [Easter
Island], which is very distant from the continent and has an altogether different and
unique fauna. Through a literature review and direct examination of specimens in museum and university collections, a marked decrease in known bivalve diversity
has been observed when comparing the fauna from the Perú-Chile Province with
similar northern latitudes. In the Alaskan, Oregonian and Californian Provinces, we have documented over 470 bivalve species, and 892 species in the Panamic Province, whereas we currently only have records for 201 verified named species
from the Perú-Chile Province. In addition we have isolated an additional 38 marine bivalve species that are potentially new to science in the Perú-Chile Province, along with another 26 species which might range into the northern or southern limits
of the Province. If the potentially new species and marginally ranged species are included, we would still have only 265 species in the region, some 45% less than the temperate regions in the northern Pacific. One factor that could help to understand the observed decrease in the number of species present in the southeastern Pacific may be under-sampling, especially in deeper waters. This fact is clearly evidenced
when considering the high number of new species discovered in the study area. In addition, a very narrow continental shelf throughout much of the Province affords fewer shelf habitats, and may also be leading to a much lower bivalve diversity.
margarita, O. peruviana, and O. zorrita - were incorrectly figured in the original publication. New images of the
types and original labels are provided here and for the first time associated with their correct names. Descriptions
and synonymies of these species are given.
Kleemann’s hypothesis that Botula kleemanni Valentich-
Scott, 2008, might be better included in another genus. While
his suggestions have merit, I find many of his conclusions
to be lacking, and will outline the discrepancies below.
basins. Adults range in size from less than one millimeter in length to tropical species with shells nearly 2 meters long.
Identification of most bivalve mollusk taxa have been traditionally based entirely on shell characters, however, to understand the ecology of a selected species requires knowledge of the anatomy. The study of anatomy, along with the shell structure, assists in the identification of phylogenetic relationships and establishes evolutionary trends.
Most bivalves feed by filtering small particles on their ctenidia and further sorting the material on their palps before ingestion. There are carnivorous species, primarily in the Order Septibranchida, that literally suck in prey as they pass by the predator. All members of the class lack jaws or a radula, and are not able to chew or break up food in the mouth (with the exception of the "shipworms" in the Teredinidae).
Some smaller bivalves are commensal, chiefly belonging to the superfamily Galeommatoidea. They have been found in association with sponges, cnidarians, polychaetes, crustaceans, echinoderms, echiurans, sipunculans, and ascideans. commensal relationships such as these provide protection to the bivalves, and for many species, an expanded water flow and food supply. Symbiotic relationships have been documented
for many members of the Lucinoidea, which possess chemoautotrophic bacteria in their ctenidia.
and illustrated. Three species are described as new, namely
Pandora (Pandora) rachaelae, Pandora (Pandorella) sarahae,
and Clidiophora dorsorectus, and one new genus, Coania.
Diagnoses are provided for the genera, subgenera, and species,
as well as illustrations of the type specimens of the nominate
species. Frenamya, Clidiophora, Heteroclidus, and Foveadens
are herein elevated to generic rank. The high diversity of
Pandoridae in the tropical Panamic Province is compared with
other tropical regions along with more temperate climes.
These bivalves bore into limestone and dead coral, and in one case into living coral.Observations substantiated previous findings of primary chemical boring processes in Botulaand Petricola.
species of the genus Chama Linnaeus, 1758, that could not be identified with any named species. After examining type
specimens at The Natural History Museum, London (BMNH), the United States National Museum of Natural History
(USNM), the Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia (ANSP), the California Academy of Sciences (CAS), the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (LACM), and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH), we have concluded that this species is new to science.
includes a complete citation, type locality, and the current type status of the specimens. An author index and alphabetic index are provided. Lectotype designations are made for three species: Mopalia chacei Berry, 1919; Placiphorella pacifica Berry, 1919; and Venus fordii Yates, 1890.
decline in the amount of published research on this fascinating
group (Morton, 1992). With this in mind, Brian Morton, Gene Coan, and Paul Scott set about to generate
new interest in bivalves, and present an opportunity for
many bivalve workers to exchange ideas and techniques.
The 1991 bivalve symposium in Berkeley, California,
sponsored by the American Malacological Union and the
Western Society of Malacologists, was the initial step in
bringing researchers together (see proceedings in American
Malacological Bulletin 9(2):105-215). Following the symposium,
the California Malacozoological Society and the Western Society of Malacologists sponsored a workshop at Moss Landing, California from 5-1 9 July 1991. The eight papers that follow in this issue of Ihe Veliger represent research that was begun during the workshop.
Piura, Perú (5.8°S), and continues south to the southern tip of Isla Chiloé, Los Lagos, Chile (43.4°S), considering the species occurring from the intertidal zone to the deep sea. We do not include the Chilean possession of Isla de Pascua [Easter
Island], which is very distant from the continent and has an altogether different and
unique fauna. Through a literature review and direct examination of specimens in museum and university collections, a marked decrease in known bivalve diversity
has been observed when comparing the fauna from the Perú-Chile Province with
similar northern latitudes. In the Alaskan, Oregonian and Californian Provinces, we have documented over 470 bivalve species, and 892 species in the Panamic Province, whereas we currently only have records for 201 verified named species
from the Perú-Chile Province. In addition we have isolated an additional 38 marine bivalve species that are potentially new to science in the Perú-Chile Province, along with another 26 species which might range into the northern or southern limits
of the Province. If the potentially new species and marginally ranged species are included, we would still have only 265 species in the region, some 45% less than the temperate regions in the northern Pacific. One factor that could help to understand the observed decrease in the number of species present in the southeastern Pacific may be under-sampling, especially in deeper waters. This fact is clearly evidenced
when considering the high number of new species discovered in the study area. In addition, a very narrow continental shelf throughout much of the Province affords fewer shelf habitats, and may also be leading to a much lower bivalve diversity.
margarita, O. peruviana, and O. zorrita - were incorrectly figured in the original publication. New images of the
types and original labels are provided here and for the first time associated with their correct names. Descriptions
and synonymies of these species are given.
Kleemann’s hypothesis that Botula kleemanni Valentich-
Scott, 2008, might be better included in another genus. While
his suggestions have merit, I find many of his conclusions
to be lacking, and will outline the discrepancies below.
basins. Adults range in size from less than one millimeter in length to tropical species with shells nearly 2 meters long.
Identification of most bivalve mollusk taxa have been traditionally based entirely on shell characters, however, to understand the ecology of a selected species requires knowledge of the anatomy. The study of anatomy, along with the shell structure, assists in the identification of phylogenetic relationships and establishes evolutionary trends.
Most bivalves feed by filtering small particles on their ctenidia and further sorting the material on their palps before ingestion. There are carnivorous species, primarily in the Order Septibranchida, that literally suck in prey as they pass by the predator. All members of the class lack jaws or a radula, and are not able to chew or break up food in the mouth (with the exception of the "shipworms" in the Teredinidae).
Some smaller bivalves are commensal, chiefly belonging to the superfamily Galeommatoidea. They have been found in association with sponges, cnidarians, polychaetes, crustaceans, echinoderms, echiurans, sipunculans, and ascideans. commensal relationships such as these provide protection to the bivalves, and for many species, an expanded water flow and food supply. Symbiotic relationships have been documented
for many members of the Lucinoidea, which possess chemoautotrophic bacteria in their ctenidia.
and illustrated. Three species are described as new, namely
Pandora (Pandora) rachaelae, Pandora (Pandorella) sarahae,
and Clidiophora dorsorectus, and one new genus, Coania.
Diagnoses are provided for the genera, subgenera, and species,
as well as illustrations of the type specimens of the nominate
species. Frenamya, Clidiophora, Heteroclidus, and Foveadens
are herein elevated to generic rank. The high diversity of
Pandoridae in the tropical Panamic Province is compared with
other tropical regions along with more temperate climes.
These bivalves bore into limestone and dead coral, and in one case into living coral.Observations substantiated previous findings of primary chemical boring processes in Botulaand Petricola.
species of the genus Chama Linnaeus, 1758, that could not be identified with any named species. After examining type
specimens at The Natural History Museum, London (BMNH), the United States National Museum of Natural History
(USNM), the Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia (ANSP), the California Academy of Sciences (CAS), the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (LACM), and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH), we have concluded that this species is new to science.
includes a complete citation, type locality, and the current type status of the specimens. An author index and alphabetic index are provided. Lectotype designations are made for three species: Mopalia chacei Berry, 1919; Placiphorella pacifica Berry, 1919; and Venus fordii Yates, 1890.
decline in the amount of published research on this fascinating
group (Morton, 1992). With this in mind, Brian Morton, Gene Coan, and Paul Scott set about to generate
new interest in bivalves, and present an opportunity for
many bivalve workers to exchange ideas and techniques.
The 1991 bivalve symposium in Berkeley, California,
sponsored by the American Malacological Union and the
Western Society of Malacologists, was the initial step in
bringing researchers together (see proceedings in American
Malacological Bulletin 9(2):105-215). Following the symposium,
the California Malacozoological Society and the Western Society of Malacologists sponsored a workshop at Moss Landing, California from 5-1 9 July 1991. The eight papers that follow in this issue of Ihe Veliger represent research that was begun during the workshop.