Phyllosoma larvae and the phylogeny of Palinuroidea (Crustacea: Decapoda): A review

Abstract

A review of larval morphology of some 50 species belonging to 15 of the 16 existing genera of Palinuroidea is presented. The taxonomic value of larval characters of the group is discussed, and a phylogenetic scheme of the whole group has been attempted.

Phylogenetic and phenetic data obtained during this review show good agreement with a previously published evolutionary scheme for the Palinuridae based on adult characters, although Palinurus seems to be a more primitive genus than Palinustus and Justitia. From the point of view of larval morphology, Palinurellus (Synaxidae) seems to be the most primitive genus.

Data on evolution of the Scyllaridae show three well differentiated groups: the more primitive (as typified by the larvae) Scyllarides-Arctides-Parribacus and Ibacus-Evibacus groups and the more specialized Thenus-Scyllarus group. Larval morphology also suggests that Parribacus is closer to Scyllarides and Arctides than to the Ibacus-Evibacus group. Evolution in Palinuroidea is seen as a process of radiation of the deep-water genera to coastal waters with a progressive shortening of larval life, although secondary trends towards shortening of larval life have also occurred in the more primitive deep-water genera (Puerulus, Linuparus and Palinurus).