a new genus, and species (Crustacea: Decapoda: Alpheidae) from anchialine caves of Bermuda Description of <i>Bermudacaris harti</i>

A new genus is proposed for an unusual new species of alpheid shrimp, Bermudacaris harti, inhabiting subterranean anchialine caves on the Bermuda Islands. This unique cavernicolous new species, has been confused with Automate dolichognatha, de Man, 1888, a species widely distributed in tropical marine shallow waters. The new genus shows some affinities with Automate de Man, 1888 and can be distinguished from the latter genus by several important features, such as subsymmetrical first chelipeds with dactylus in ventral position, and presence of appendix masculina in males. This new species is unusual among the Alpheidae in the considerable reduction of corneal pigmentation, especially in female, most likely an adaptation to the cave environment. The presence of few large eggs in the female suggests that the new species has low fecundity and abbreviated larval development, which might result from its troglobitic lifestyle. The relationships of the new genus to Automate are discussed in some detail. Presumably marine ancestors of this troglobitic species entered anchialine caves from neighboring shallow, marine waters.

Description of Bermudacaris harti, a new genus, and species (Crustacea: Decapoda: Alpheidae) from anchialine caves of Bermuda Academic Article