World Register of marine Cave Species (WoRCS)

Marine caves and anchialine systems of the Caribbean host a remarkable diversity of mysid crustaceans, yet knowledge of their taxonomy and ecology has remained fragmented. This monographic revision compiles all available records from the region and documents 22 species belonging to 10 genera, including three newly described species (Bermudamysis caribbaea sp. nov., Heteromysis troglophila sp. nov. and Palaumysis antillensis sp. nov.). The authors also revise the taxonomy of three genera, provide updated identification keys for all Caribbean cave mysids, and assess the degree of cave affinity (troglophily) of each species. The study highlights the exceptional biodiversity of Caribbean marine caves, ranging from widespread coastal species that occasionally inhabit caves to highly specialized cave-dwelling taxa, emphasizing the evolutionary and conservation importance of these unique subterranean ecosystems. The work provides an essential taxonomic framework and reference for future biodiversity surveys, ecological studies and conservation efforts targeting tropical marine cave habitats.

Reference:
Wittmann KJ, Chevaldonné P (2026) Biodiversity, complete inventory, taxonomy and keys to the species of Mysidae (Crustacea, Mysida) from marine caves of the Caribbean with revision of three genera and description of three new species. ZooKeys 1283: 93–204.