A revision of the genus Ophiambix (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) including the description of a new species

Abstract

The genus Ophiambix is revised and problems at higher taxonomic levels are discussed. The species Ophiambix aculeatus, O. meteoris and O. devaneyi are redescribed (based on new characters), and a new species O. epicopus is described from the Kermadec Islands, South Pacific. A pictorial key is presented to aid identification.

Keywords :

• Ophiuroidea
• Ophiuridae
• Ophiurinae
• Ophiambix
• O. epicopus sp. nov.
• pictorial key
• waterlogged wood
• pumice—habitat