Restating scope of genus Metaphire Sims & Easton, 1972 40 years on

Abstract

Clarification of correct placement of species in genus Metaphire Sims & Easton, 1972 is required as differentiation from Amynthas Kinberg, 1867 hinges on condition of male pores in their respective type-species. Confusion is due in part to misconception of rules of ICZN and partly because of problems of parthenogenetic degradation of male organs. In summary, Amynthas is the default genus of pheretimoids with superficial or absent male pores, Metaphire species differs by having non-superficial male pores and in Pheretima Kinberg, 1867, which is not known in East Asia, taxa further acquire nephridia on spermathecal ducts. The type of Metaphire, M. javanica (Kinberg, 1867), was misidentified in Australia but M. californica (Kinberg, 1867), its possible synonym, is widespread and is now confirmed in Korea. This latter cosmopolitan is still often confused with Japanese Duplodicodrilus schmardae (Horst, 1883) that has eversible intromittent organs developed much more so than in Metaphire. Figures are provided.

Key words:

• Taxomonic priority
• genera
• pheretimoids
• Asian earthworms