WoRMS source details

Schüller, Myriam. 2007. Biodiversity and Zoogeography of the Polychaeta (Annelida) in the deep Weddell Sea (Southern Ocean, Antarctica) and adjacent deep-sea basins. Ph.D. Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bochum. 257 p.
167982
Publication
World Polychaeta Database (WPolyDb). Status as a publication for taxonomy. There is no disclaimer, however, there is this indication that publication via this thesis was probably not intended, "Fifteen new species were described. The type material is stored at the Ruhr-University Bochum and will be transferred to Zoological Museum, Hamburg after publication of descriptions."
Summary: "In course of this study the Polychaeta of the Antarctic deep sea have been analyzed. The sample material originated from the expeditions ANDEEP I-III to the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean in early spring 2002 and 2005. Samples were taken with an epibenthic sledge constructed at the Ruhr-University of Bochum. Analyses of biodiversity and community structure of the Polychaeta were carried out with the program PRIMER v 6.1.6. In addition, the global distribution patterns of named species were reconstructed to gain insight into the possible origin of the Antarctic deep-sea benthos. In the samples 14,176 individuals of 47 families were found. Thirteen families were identified to species level, 155 species were distinguished. A percentage of 30 % of species were new to science indicating an undersampling of the Antarctic deep sea. During this study 18 species were described, three descriptions have already been published. Additionally, identification keys for all species found were constructed. Calculations of species richness (Margalef’s Index) and diversity (Shannon Index and Pielou’s Evenness) indicate high polychaete diversities in the Antarctic deep sea compared to deep-sea basins world wide. Within the sampling area the central Weddell Sea is characterized by the lowest diversity. Possible explanation is a lack of influences of faunal elements from adjacent deep-sea basins in comparison to the Drake Passage and the Antarctic Peninsula (possible Pacific influences), as well as the eastern Weddell Sea (possible Atlantic influences). Similarity analyses result in one main cluster that only presents minor differences between sampling areas. Within this cluster evidence for an east-west gradient in polychaete composition is given. On a regional scale the sampled sector of the Southern Ocean supposedly hosts a potentially homogenous polychaete community. Different influences of adjacent deep-sea basins, however, result in a longitudinal gradient between eastern and western stations. For local differences between stations sediment grain size is suggested as a factor of major influence. Depth seems to play a subordinated role. Vertical distribution patterns show a high percentage of eurybath species that are found on the upper continental slope as well as on the abyssal plains. Additionally, the presence of a classical deep-sea fauna becomes evident. The global distribution patterns of named species present distinct differences between the analyzed families. These might be based on reproduction strategies and habitat preferences. Based on distribution charts dispersal ways of polychaetes along ocean currents become apparent. The Humboldt Current supports the dispersal of species into the Pacific, the Antarctic bottom water that into the Atlantic. The found east-west gradient in species composition, as well as the finding of cosmopolitan species indicate that some polychaete species sampled originate from outside the Southern Ocean deep sea. The Antarctic deep sea is consequently not isolated, as known for the Antarctic shelf. Within the Southern Ocean there is evidence for submergence and emergence of polychaete species. Additionally, local radiation events originating from relict species are suggested.
Antarctic
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2013-06-03 22:41:12Z
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2013-06-09 22:14:08Z
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Parasyllidea delicata Schüller, 2008 (original description)
 Validity

Fully described and figured in a thesis available online, but not yet subsequently published. Availability status ... [details]