Some features in the morphology of Lomis hirta (lamarck) (Crustacea: Decapoda) and a discussion of its systematic position and phylogeny.

Abstract

The external morphology of Lomis hirta is re-examined. It is shown that there are several major errors in the published descriptions, all of which omit the presence of large sixth pleopods (uropods) in the female. The abdomen and its appendages are redescribed in both sexes, and it is considered that Lomis properly constitutes a separate family, Lomisidae, within the Paguridea but that it is a very early offshoot from the base of this group. It is closest to Mixtopagurus (Pylochelidae) and differs from this genus mainly in those features associated with carcinization. The diagnosis of the group Paguridea must be amended to include Lomis.