VOLUME 15
PART 3
MEMOIRS
OF THE
QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
BRISBANE
VOLUME 15
PART 3
MEMOIRS
OF THE
(QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
ISSUED BY THE AUTHORITY OF THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION,
THE Hon. A. R. FLETCHER
THE GENUS EUCRATE (CRUSTACEA: GONEPLACIDAE) IN EASTERN
AUSTRALIA AND THE INDO-WEST PACIFIC
B. M. CAMPBELL
Queensland Museum
ABSTRACT
Five species are recorded from the Queensland coast; Eucrate sexdentata
Haswell and E. affinis Haswell are redescribed, EF. australiensis (Miers)
being considered a synonym of the latter; E. affinis: Alcock is regarded as a
synonym of E. tripunctata sp. nov.; E. haswelli sp. nov. is described from a
single specimen similar to FE. transversa; and smaller specimens of E. dorsalis
White are shown to differ markedly from published figures and descriptions,
which are based on large specimens. EE. crenata de Haan is described and
figured. A tentative key to nine Indo—West Pacific species is included.
While carrying out routine identifications for a faunal list of the sublittoral crabs of
Moreton Bay (Campbell and Stephenson in MS.; Griffin and Campbell, 1969) it was
inevitable that some specimens should require more thorough investigation. Three
specimens of Eucrate dorsalis, readily identifiable from published figures, nevertheless
initiated a comparison with additional material of this genus in the Queensland Museum
and the Australian Museum. The presence of an undescribed species among this material
showed the need for a more detailed study of the genus. Five species are here described
from Australia, and a specimen of EF. crenata from Japan is described and figured for
comparative purposes,
All drawings have been made with the aid of a camera lucida. Those of the male
abdomens are a composite of several drawings made perpendicular to the surface to
eliminate paralax.
Genus Eucrate de Haan, 1835
TYPE SPECIES: Cancer (Eucrate) crenata de Haan, 1835.
DIAGNOsIs: See Alcock, 1900, pp. 298-9. To this description can be added two
features which are common to at least the six species examined :—
(1) The front is transversely sulcate.
(2) The male pleopod carries a terminal armature of numerous small spinules,
many of which are bifid.
118 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
A considerable number of nominate species, subspecies and “ varieties ’’ have been
proposed for this genus and almost as many different attempts have been made to
synonymise these in a multiplicity of combinations. The problem is perpetuated partly
because of the inadequacies of many published descriptions and figures and perhaps
partly because of the considerable growth polymorphism which appears to exist in some
species (see below, E. dorsalis) and which demands for its investigation a larger range of
specimens than has been available in many cases. A fuller study of this growth
polymorphism may result in a reduction of the number of valid species in this genus,
but at the present time it seems necessary to recognise nine in the Indo-West Pacific.
The most recent comprehensive treatment of this genus is that of Tesch (1918).
Tesch failed to recognise FE. hamiltoni McCulloch as a synonym of E. dorsalis White,
to recognise E. sexdentata as belonging to this genus, and to appreciate the distinctness
of two other Australian species which he synonymised with E. sulcatifrons (Stimpson).
The following key to the Indo—West Pacific species is proposed as a tentative replacement
for that given by Tesch (1918, p. 158).
KEY TO THE INDO—WEST PACIFIC SPECIES OF EUCRATE
(Species in bold face are described in this paper; in the case
of other species a reference is given to a recent description.)
fs Anterolateral margins of carapace without teeth, with or without low
rounded lobes. (Carapace width greater than 35 mm; carapace with
anterior speckling and usually a single central dorsal spot)..........
Pe ein SOD oh aes ri lat lv ue eee Nant tata) eal naw. E. dorsalis White
2 (1). Only three anterolateral teeth (including the external orbital angle);
carapace with c. 20 large regular spots on its anterior two thirds........
eet ora RT Oe wees se ikl Ry at piacivay yy Rhaiats lets MaMa E. sexdentata Haswell
3 (2). Carapace with short but very distinct ridges mesiad to, but separated from,
third and fourth anterolateral teeth; a short beaded posterolateral ridge
BML sce Mn Bach gee Lin, sats Nepal ating tours seep earehs Uhl sig 3 wera te 2 E. affinis Haswell
4 (3). Second and third anterolateral teeth of similar shape and size, both well
SVL. Lee wera AED) hee Emde Ftc es etait i dy raat S
Third anterolateral tooth much more acute, more prominent, or much
more raised than the second tooth, which may have a longer outer margin 8
THE GENUS EUCRATE 119
o.(4). “Carapace width Tess than 25 atin: oo os Gay eae we yale eb bls ed eel 6
Carapace width sreater than 25 titty, os flaws as Ge de lew ade Se Wve ewe 7
6 (5). Median longitudinal groove deep, dividing on the gastric region; carapace
dark reddish-brown with distinct pale margin anteriorly and laterally
ee ee ee Pac Pee EE Ree Pee res re E. sulcatifrons (Stimpson)
Hong Kong, Japan; ?Timor, Celebes, NW. New Guinea. (See
Stimpson, 1907, pp. 90-1; Sakai, 1965, p. 169, pl. 83, fig. 3.; this
paper, p. 126)
Median longitudinal groove shallow carapace with 2-4 dorsal spots or a
Siieleiereoulnd PIOtC. A). foe.) rsl, alleen clo atl Aiden eh Mekal iran 7
7 (6, 5). Carpus of cheliped with only a narrow fringe of hair distally on its upper
border; propodus of last leg broad, 1/w = 2-0-2-4; carapace with one
central and two lateral spots which are sometimes coalesced to form
ha Ag Dads) °( EVE tage 518) Co) | ane een oe ae E. tripunctata sp. nov.
Carpus of cheliped with a broad patch of hair distally on its outer surface;
propodus of last leg 1/w = 2-6-2-8; carapace without a central spot
ialeas dds eR ee ITE Pek Oh optnhhe wh she hiysat BEA ale AAT wate E. crenata de Haan
Japan, Hong Kong, ? Red Sea.
8 (4). Carapace broad, carapace width more than 1-30 times carapace length;
fronto-orbital width greater than carapace length.................... 9
Carapace width less than 1-30 times carapace length; fronto-orbital width
lesssthan- carapace Tenet 22.4 ind ce 14 Seay ewes Adie ea ore Bike ete ee 10
9 (8). Second anterolateral tooth distinct.................. E. haswelli sp. nov.
Second anterolateral tooth nearly obsolete....... E. transversa (Stimpson)
Hong Kong. (See Stimpson, 1907, p. 95)
10 (8). Frontal notch minute or absent; cheliped with patch of hair distally on
outer face of carpus; no large central spot on carapace..........
ba tee FS part secaln dealt peer onan ania a AOE Sealectette amb Ty E. dentata (Stimpson)
Hong Kong, Palk Str. (See Stimpson, 1907, pp. 94-5; Chhapgar, 1957,
pp. 437-8, pl. 11, figs. j, k. 1; this paper, p. 135.)
Frontal notch small but distinct; cheliped with only a narrow fringe of
hair distally; carapace usually with central reddish spot (carapace width
c. 1-5 times frontal width; second anterolateral tooth not markedly
less conspicuous that: frst). 2 ios 3 ee a Pale E. dorsalis White
The brevity of many of the existing descriptions and the lack of illustrations of
some features have made it impossible to give complete synonymies at this time.
120 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
Eucrate sexdentata Haswell
(Fig. 1.)
Eucrate sexdentatus Haswell, 1881, p. 548; 1882, p. 86.
[non] Pseudorhombilia vestita (de Haan), var. sexdentata, Haswell: Miers, 1884, pp. 240-1, pl. 24B.
Eucrate sexdentata Haswell: Alcock, 1900, p. 301.
MATERIAL EXAMINED
Queensland Museum: Four males (6:5-18 mm), four females (12—23-5 mm), Moreton B., W2648,
W2715, W2726, W2806, W2808, W2817, W2818, W2909. Ovig. female (17-5 mm) off Jumpin Pin,
SE. Qd, W2812.
Australian Museum: Male (20 mm), female (20 mm), ovig. female (16 mm), Moreton B., P15246,
P15258, P15253. Male (23-5 mm), 12-15 miles NNE. of Cape Moreton, 80-100 fms, D. Harris, 1965.
DESCRIPTION
CARAPACE: Broader than long (1-10—1-20 times); surface microscopically granulate
and punctate, without ridges, with the regions not defined; median frontal groove not
discernable. Frontal width half fronto-orbital width; front with two broad square-cut
lobes, their anterior margins straight, transverse, and sulcate. Anterojateral margins
with three teeth including external orbital angle; first two broad, rounded, well
separated from third which is slightly more dorsal, very acute, forwardly projecting,
and forming broadest part of carapace.
BaSAL ANTENNAL JOINT: Antero-external angle produced to meet front so that
flagellum is excluded from orbit; frontal margin of projection much less than orbital
margin.
CHELIPED: Merus granulate ventrally; with single prominent, rounded spine
dorsally. Carpus with prominent flattened conical spine on inner angle and tuft of hairs
distally on outer face. Propodus smooth and rounded dorsally, with longitudinal carina
on ventral edge of outer surface extending back from tip of fixed finger to proximal
third of chela.
AMBULATORY LEGS: Long, third distinctly longer than twice carapace width.
Propodus of last leg 3-6 to 4-2 times as long as broad.
MALE ABDOMEN: First, second, and third segments expanded laterally to meet
coxae of last legs.
MALE PLEOPOoD: Curved and tapering throughout length; terminal armature with
some spinules bifid; tip slightly flared.
CoLour: Pale cream with purple-pink spots on the dorsal surface of the carapace
disposed as in fig. 2B, or with two additional posterior spots. Upper surfaces of carpus,
propodus, and dactyl of chelipeds sometimes with fainter pink blotches which may
coalesce leaving cream spots between a purplish network.
DIsTRIBUTION: Port Denison (type locality, Haswell, 1881); India (Alcock, 1900);
Moreton B.
THE GENUS EUCRATE 121
DISCUSSION
Haswell’s brief description is sufficient to confidently assign the present specimens
to this species, but it was not sufficiently detailed to prevent subsequent conjecture as
to the relationships of the species.
Miers (1884, pp. 240-1) described nin from the Arafura Sea under the name
‘* Pseudorhombilia vestita (de Haan), var. sexdentata, Haswell”. He doubtfully
synonymised Eucrate sexdentatus Haswell, but suggested that these might be distinct
Fic. 1: Eucrate sexdentata. A, C-F: male, Qd Mus. W2817. A, chela; C, basal antennal joint;
D, E, male pleopod (1. = lateral, a. = abdominal, m. = median faces); F, male abdomen.
B, G-I: female Qd Mus., W2818. B, carapace; G, third maxilliped; H, third right
ambulatory leg; I, last right ambulatory leg.
Scale divisions 1 mm.
122 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
and proposed the name Pseudorhombilia haswelli to be used if this should be proved so.
These two species are, in fact, quite distinct. Miers’s specimens differ from F. sexdentata
in that the carapace is pubescent, the typical pinkish spots are not present on the carapace,
the front is entire, the basal antennal joint is not produced to meet the front, and the
second and third abdominal segments do not meet the bases of the fifth legs.
Rathbun (1915, p. 146) designated P. haswelli Miers as type species of a new genus
Homoioplax, in the subfamily Prionoplacinae, distinguished by having a male abdomen
with the first and second segments, but not the third, covering the entire breadth of the
sternum.
Tesch (1918, pp. 190-3, pl. 10, fig. 1) described and figured material which he referred
to H. haswelli (Miers), and suggested (p. 158, footnote) that FE. sexdentata Haswell should
also belong to the genus Homoioplax. This suggestion was apparently based on the
erroneous assumption that the male abdomen of E£. sexdentata is similar to that of
H. haswelli. The third segment of the abdomen of E£. sexdentata is, in fact, fully expanded
laterally to meet the bases of the last legs and this species is correctly placed in the genus
Eucrate, subfamily Carcinoplacinae.
Eucrate affinis Haswell
(Figs. 2, 3.)
Eucrate affinis Haswell, 1881, p. 547; 1882, p. 86. Stebbing, 1921, p. 458, pl. 15.
Pseudorhombilia sulcatifrons (Stimpson), var. australiensis Miers, 1884, pp. 242-3, pl. 24, fig. C.
Eucrate sulcatifrons (Stimpson): Barnard, 1950, pp. 295-6, fig. 54d, e.
[non] Pilumnoplax sulcatifrons Stimpson, 1858, p. 93; 1907, p. 90.
[non] Eucrate sulcatifrons (Stimpson): Sakai, 1965, p. 169, pl. 83, fig. 3.
{non] Eucrate affinis Haswell: de Man, 1887, pp. 89-93, pl. 5, figs. 5-7. (= E. tripunctata)
(non] Eucrate crenata var. affinis Haswell: Alcock, 1900, pp. 300-1. (= E. tripunctata)
MATERIAL EXAMINED
Australian Museum: Male (8-7 mm), female (12-4 mm), Holborn I., off Port Denison, Qd, P2972,
dry preservation, syntypes of E. affinis Haswell. The male is here designated lectotype, the female
becomes a paralectotype.
DESCRIPTION
CARAPACE: Broader than long (1-29, 1:32 times); regions not defined; median
frontal groove shallow, but distinct in both specimens, dividing on gastric region;
shallow concave depression behind orbits extending laterally to first and second
anterolateral teeth, forward to antennal notches and across the carapace well back on
Fic. 2: Variation in proportion of six features with carapace width. Each point represents a single
specimen. w. = width; |. = length; fow. = fronto-orbital width; fw. = frontal width.
A = E.affinis; O = E. tripunctata; @ = E. haswelli;) + = E. dorsalis; @& = E. crenata.
carapace
carapace
carapace
carapace
propodus
last leg
o& abdomen
Segt. 5
to
distalw
o& abdomen
Segt. 7 l
Ww.
THE GENUS EUCRATE
124 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
the post-frontal region; low rounded epigastric prominences barely discernable. Fronto-
orbital width 1-97, 1-96 times frontal width; front with two broad square-cut lobes,
their anterior margins straight, transverse, and sulcate. Infra-orbital margin well defined
by a raised rim which ends medially as a rounded tooth which is separated from the
prominent inner sub-orbital tooth by a deep sinus. Anterolateral margins with four
teeth including the external orbital angle; the third the largest, acute, prominent, and
distinctly raised above the second; the fourth the smallest; the first rounded with a
faint dorsal carina; the second more acute with a more distinct dorsal carina. Mesiad
to the third tooth, but separated from it by a deep groove there is a very distinct, short,
almost tooth-like ridge; mesiad to the fourth tooth there is a longer but slightly less
distinct carina separated from the fourth tooth by a broader, shallower groove.
Posterolateral corners of carapace with distinct, irregularly granulate ridge running almost
parallel with posterolateral borders for short distance in male, longer in larger female.
BASAL ANTENNAL JOINT: With antero-external angle produced to meet front so
that flagellum is excluded from orbit; frontal margin of projection much shorter than
orbital margin.
CHELIPED: Upper border of merus with strong subdistal spine. Intermediate lobe
between subdistal spine and prominence for upper carpal articular condyle large,
tooth-like, intermediate in size between subdistal spine and prominence when viewed in
profile sighting across bases of maxillipeds. Inner angle of carpus with low short median
carina ending in spine; few scattered hairs between this spine and upper articulation
with propodus, dense patch of long hairs between upper and lower articulations and
covering distal quarter of outer face of carpus. Propodus smooth and rounded; with
deep longitudinal groove near ventral edge of outer face, extending back from near tip
of finger for half length of chela.
AMBULATORY LeGs: Of moderate length, third twice carapace length. Propodus
of last leg (only right last leg of female available) with length 2-83 times width.
MALE ABDOMEN: First, second, and third segments expanded laterally to meet
coxae of last legs; third and fourth segments rapidly tapering to base of fifth; length
of fifth segment less than width of distal margin (0-82 times); [sixth segment obscured
by mounting medium;] terminal segment with rounded tip, length 1-9 times width.
MALE PLEOPOD: Not available for examination,
CoLour: After prolonged preservation bleached to uniform pale cream.
DISTRIBUTION: Port Denison, Qd (type locality, Haswell, 1881); Port Molle
(Miers, 1884).
DISCUSSION
The most distinctive and characteristic feature of this species is probably the presence
of the short strong ridges at the bases of the third and fourth anterolateral teeth. These
are well shown in the South African specimens of Stebbing (1921, pl. 15) and Barnard
(1950, fig. 54d) and there is little doubt that these are conspecific with Haswell’s type
THE GENUS EUCRATE 125
Fic. 3: Eucrate affinis. A-G: lectotype, male, Aust. Mus. P2972. A, chela; B, carapace; C, merus
of cheliped (see text); D, third maxilliped; E, basal antennal joint; F, male abdomen (sixth
segment obscured by mounting medium); G, suborbital rim.
H, I: paralectotype, female, Aust. Mus. P2972. H, carapace; I, last right ambulatory leg.
Scale divisions | mm.
126 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
material. It should be noted that the carapace as illustrated by Barnard is relatively
narrower than in the type material although the proportions of Stebbing’s illustrated
specimen compare more favourably.
Miers described Pseudorhombilia sulcatifrons vat australiensis from an 8 mm male.
Photographs of the holotype, a dried specimen in good condition at the British Museum,
have been received from Mr. R. W. Ingle and these show the following inaccuracies in
Miers’s figure and description. (a) The front of the holotype is not entire, but has a
faint median notch. (b) The basal antennal joint is in contact with the front. (c) The
third anterolateral teeth are larger and more projecting than is shown in Miers’s figure,
the first teeth are more rounded, and the second are slightly smaller. (d) The dactyli,
particularly those of the last legs, are not as slender as shown in the figure and the
propodi do not taper strongly distally.
Although Miers’s holotype does not appear to have the outer face of the carpus
of the cheliped hirsute and the strongly granular posterolateral ridges are not present
in the photograph, it can be referred to the present species with some confidence because
of the following features. (a) Ridges mesiad to the third and fourth anterolateral
teeth are shown in the photographs and were mentioned by Miers. (5) All ratios
shown in fig. 2 for E. affinis are in very close agreement with those taken from the
photograph of the holotype. (c) The projection of the basal antennal joint is long and
slender, agreeing well with fig. 3E. (d) The suborbital crest as figured by Miers is
similar to that of the present species (fig. 3G). (e) Haswell’s specimens and Miers’s
were collected from localities only 45 miles apart (Port Denison and Port Molle
respectively).
No distinct carapace ridges are mentioned by Stimpson in his description of
** Pilumnoplax ” sulcatifrons and it is not probable that he would have failed to describe
them had they been present. There seems little justification for synonymising E. affinis
and EF. sulcatifrons. The “ slight longitudinal ridge or angle on each side above and
parallel with the posterolateral margin” that Stimpson mentions could well be only
the break in curvature that is found in most species of this genus—it is significant that
Stimpson did not mention any granulation or beading of this posterolateral ridge,
also characteristic of E. affinis.
E. SULCATIFRONS: The absence of type material, the incompleteness of the original
description, and the loss of Stimpson’s subsequently prepared figures have enabled any
material which proved difficult to identify, and any surplus nominate species, to be
referred to E. sulcatifrons. The deep median longitudinal groove to which Stimpson
(1907, p. 90) refers, an unusual feature for this genus, provides a distinguishing character.
Sakai (1965, pl. 33, fig. 3) has illustrated a specimen which he refers to E. sulcatifrons
and his illustration shows this deep median groove. His description (Japanese Part,
p. 73) mentions that this species is smaller than £. crenata, has a marked concavity
posterior to the orbit, a well developed inner orbital spine, four anterolateral teeth which
are more acute than those of E. crenata, the hand of the cheliped is much enlarged,
and the colour is variable but many specimens have paler carapace margins. It is not
THE GENUS EUCRATE 127
possible to refer with certainty descriptions that mention neither the deep median groove
nor the colouration (see Sakai), but the material described by Tesch (1918, pp. 158-60)
does not carry the distinct lateral carapace ridges of E. affinis and it seems possible that
his material has been correctly referred to F. sulcatifrons.
Pseudozius (Platyozius) laevis Borradaile, as illustrated by Rathbun (1906, pl. 11,
fig. 7) bears little resemblance to this species. The Hawaiian “‘E. sulcatifrons’’ as
illustrated and described by Edmondson (1962) differs quite markedly from E. sulcatifrons,
and indeed from all other species of Eucrate, in having the front divided by a broad
shallow depression in place of the usual small distinct notch. The Hawaiian material
could well represent a tenth species of this genus which could be separated from the
others in the key by the form of the frontal notch.
Tozzetti (1877) described and illustrated a specimen from Yokohama which he
identified as Pilumnoplax sulcatifrons. This specimen is here referred to E. crenata
(see p. 136).
Eucrate tripunctata sp. nov.
(Figs. 2, 4.)
Eucrate affinis, Haswell: de Man, 1887, pp. 89-93, pl. 5, figs. 5-7.
Eucrate crenata var. affinis, Haswell: Alcock, 1900, pp. 300-1.
[non] Eucrate affinis Haswell, 1881, p. 547; 1882, p. 86.
MATERIAL EXAMINED
Queensland Museum: Ten males (8-35 mm), nine females (2140-5 mm), Moreton B. (Mud L.,
Woody Pt., dredged), W385, W1070, W1190, W1214, W1496, W1514, W3029, W3030, W3034, W3035.
Australian Museum: Male (c. 34 mm), Magazine I., Pt. Denison, in burrow in muddy sandbank,
P6990; male (35 mm), Sandgate, Moreton B., P7914; male (12:5 mm), Masthead I., G5884.
Holotype: Male (33-3 mm), Mud I., Moreton B., 26. V. 1964, V. F. Collin, Qd Mus. W3034 (part).
DESCRIPTION
CARAPACE: Broader than long (1-:20—1-28 times, see fig. 2); surface microscopically
punctate; regions not defined; median frontal groove very shallow or barely discernable;
concave depression behind orbits extending laterally to second anterolateral tooth,
forward to antennal notches and across post-frontal region as a shallow concavity
bordered posteriorly by faintly indicated post-frontal lobes. Fronto-orbital width
1-7-1-95 times frontal width (see fig. 2); front with two broad square-cut lobes, their
anterior margins straight, transverse, and sulcate. Infra-orbital margin well defined
by a raised rim ending abruptly laterally, and with a small tooth medially which is
similar in shape to, and separated by a deep concavity from, the much larger inner
suborbital tooth. Anterolateral margins with four teeth including external orbital
angle, all of similar shape, fourth smallest, first three subequal; a short low ridge running
postero-mesiad from the fourth tooth. Posterolateral margins rounded and only vaguely
defined.
BASAL ANTENNAL JOINT: Antero-external angle produced to meet front so that
flagellum is excluded from orbit; frontal margin of projection almost equal to orbital
margin.
128 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
CHELIPED: Upper border of merus usually with small sharp granular spine in
middle of length, always with strong subdistal spine. Intermediate lobe between
subdistal spine and prominence for upper carpal articular condyle subequal to articular
prominence when viewed in profile sighting across base of the maxillipeds. Carpus with
strong median spine and band of hairs between this and upper articulation with
propodus. Propodus smooth and rounded, with longitudinal groove near ventral
edge of outer surface extending back from near tip of fixed finger for half length of chela.
AMBULATORY LeGs: Of moderate length, third less than twice carapace length
in larger specimens, twice or slightly more than twice in specimen of under 20 mm cw.
Propodus of last leg broad, length 1-9—2-4 times width (see fig. 2).
MALE ABDOMEN: First, second, and third segments expanded laterally to meet
coxae of last legs; third and fourth segments rapidly tapering to base of fifth; length
of fifth segment equal to (0-9-1-12 times) width of distal margin; sixth segment with
concave or sinuous, subparallel sides; terminal segment long, slender, pointed (length
1-75—2-5 times width, see fig. 2).
MALE PLEoPOD: Moderately long, quite distinctly extending past point where
first sternal groove meets abdomen. Maximum cutvature in proximal third followed
by straight, slender, tapering shank gently curving in distal sixth; terminal armature
with some spinules bifid; tip rounded.
CoLtour: After alcohol preservation pale cream with three large reddish spots
on carapace, a broadly oval median spot of variable extent, sometimes coalescing with
the two smaller lateral spots. These spots are usually discrete and rounded but in some
specimens are in the form of irregular blotches.
DISTRIBUTION: Mergui Archipelego (de Man, 1887; Alcock, 1900); Moreton B.
DISCUSSION
de Man (1887) described specimens from the Mergui Archipelago as E. affinis
Haswell. His description and figure are not entirely in agreement, but the restriction
of the patch of hair on the upper border of the wrist of the cheliped, the proportions
of the propodus of the last leg, and the subequal anterolateral teeth place these specimens
in the present species. Although de Man refers to two transverse ridge-like elevations
near the third and fourth teeth these are not described as strongly developed and the
illustration shows the usual low elevations of E. tripunctata. While de Man’s
description and figure of ‘‘ E. affinis’’ can be referred to this species with certainty
those of other authors present some difficulties although Alcock (1900) provides a
special case in that his description is based on the same specimen as that of de Man.
Although close to £. crenata. the present species is distinguished by the features
provided in the key by the proportions of the fifth and seventh segments of the male
abdomen (see fig. 2), by the shape of the orbital projection on the basal antennal joint,
THE GENUS EUCRATE 129
Fic. 4: Eucrate tripunctata. A-J: holotype, 33-3 mm male, Qd Mus. W3034 (part). A, chela; B,
carapace: C, suborbital rim; D, basal antennal joint; EE, merus of cheliped, (see text);
F, third maxilliped; G, last right ambulatory leg; H, I, male pleopod (m. = median, s. =
sternal, 1. = lateral faces); J, male abdomen.
K: carapaces of 15 mm male and 27 mm female, Qd Mus. W3034 (part).
L: carapace of 8 mm male, Qd Mus. W3034 (part).
Scale divisions | mm.
130 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
by the suborbital ridge, and by the shape of the male pleopods. The apparent overlap
of the two species in the Indian region does not permit E. tripunctata to be regarded
as a subspecies of E. crenata.
Eucrate haswelli sp. nov.
(Figs. 2, 5.)
MATERIAL EXAMINED
Holotype: Male, 19-5 mm, Port Denison, Qd, between tide marks, E. H. Rainford, Australian
Museum P6991.
DESCRIPTION
CARAPACE: Much broader than long (1:34 times); surface microscopically
punctate; regions not defined; median frontal groove very shallow, dividing on gastric
region; very shallow concave depression behind orbits extending laterally to second
anterolateral teeth, forward to antennal notches. Fronto-orbital width 2:38 times
frontal width; front with two broad square-cut lobes, their anterior margins straight,
transverse, and sulcate. Infra-orbital margin well defined by a raised rim which ends
medially with a rounded lobe well separated by a broad concavity from the larger inner
suborbital tooth. Anterolateral margins with four teeth including the external orbital
angle, third much the largest, fourth smallest, first large, rounded, and with distinct
ventral carina running to meet suborbital ridge.
BASAL ANTENNAL JOINT: Antero-external angle produced to meet front so that
flagellum is excluded from orbit; frontal margin of projection approximately equal to
orbital margin.
CHELIPED: Upper border of merus with single shaip granular spine in middle of
length, and strong subdistal spine. Intermediate lobe between subdistal spine and
prominence for upper carpal articular condyle subequal to articular prominence when
viewed in profile sighting across base of maxillipeds. Inner angle of carpus with strong
short median carina ending in spine; few scattered hairs between this spine and upper
articulation with propodus, dense patch of long hairs between upper and lower
articulations and covering distal fifth of outer face of carpus. Propodus smooth and
rounded, with deep longitudinal groove marking distinct ridge near ventral edge of
outer surface, extending back from tip of fixed finger for half length of chela.
AMBULATORY LEGS: Of moderate length, third twice carapace length. Propodus
of last leg broad, length 2-2 times width.
MALE ABDOMEN: First, second, and third segments expanded laterally to meet
coxae of last legs; third and fourth segments rapidly tapering to base of fifth; length
of fifth segment equal to width of distal margin; sixth segment with sinuous, subparallel
sides; terminal segment triangular, length 2-3 times width.
THE GENUS EUCRATE 131
Fic. 5: Eucrate haswelli. Holotype, male, Aust. Mus. P6991. A, chela; B, carapace; C, suborbital
rim; D, basal antennal joint; E, last right ambulatory leg; F, G, male pleopod (m. =
median, s. = sternal, |. = lateral faces); H, third maxilliped; I, male abdomen.
Scale divisions | mm.
132 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
MALE PLEopoD: Of moderate length, not extending past point where first sternal
groove meets abdomen. Curved, with thick tapering shank and flared tip; some
terminal spinules bifid.
Cotour: After prolonged alcohol preservation bleached to uniform pale cream.
DISTRIBUTION: Port Denison, mid east Queensland.
DISCUSSION
This species shows some agreement with Stimpson’s (1907, p. 95) description of
Heteroplax [=Eucrate] transversa. This brief description is composed largely of
comparisons with his E. dentata so that some of the supposed agreements are based
on inference, the lack of a statement to the contrary being taken as adequate grounds
to assume that EF. transversa shared a certain feature with FE. dentata. On this basis,
the significant points of agreement are as follows :—
(1) The carapace is little broader than the fronto-orbital width.
(2) The anterolateral and posterolateral regions are nearly continuous, the
former very short.
(3) The outer orbital angle is prominent.
(4) The ocular peduncles are long.
(5) There is a tuft of pubescence on the outer surface of the carpus of the cheliped.
(6) The carapace is very broad.
These features suggest a very close relationship between the present specimen and
that of Stimpson, and together serve to distinguish both from other species of Eucrate.
Opposed to this there are the following points of disagreement :—
(1) The carapace of E. transversa is much broader (cw 1-46 x cl) than in the
present specimen (cw 1-34 x cl).
(2) The second anterolateral tooth of E. transversa is almost obsolete. In
E. haswelli this tooth is very distinct, much larger than the fourth.
(3) The median frontal notch of £. transversa is presumed, by inference, to be
absent as in FE. dentata. In E. haswelli it is quite distinct.
In spite of the many points of agreement these differences cannot at present be
reconciled. Until the discovery of specimens that can be referred unquestionably to
Stimpson’s description of £. transversa indicates that the variability of this species is
adequate to encompass these differences, it seems necessary to regard the present specimen
as belonging to a species distinct from E. transversa. Haswell described two species of
Eucrate but both were subsequently considered junior synonyms of established species.
They have been reinstated in this paper and it is fitting that his name should be used for
this species.
THE GENUS EUCRATE 133
Eucrate dorsalis (White)
(Figs. 2, 6.)
Cancer (Galene) dorsalis White, 1848, p. 144, pl. Annulosa 6.
Eucrate hamiltoni McCulloch, 1908, pp. 58-9, pl. 12, figs. 1, la. Tesch, 1918, p. 158 (in key).
Eucrate dorsalis White: McCulloch, 1909, p. 314.
MATERIAL EXAMINED
Queensland Museum: Eight males (16-63 mm), four females (19-54 mm), Moreton B. (Cleveland,
Hayes Inlet, Mud I, Otter Rock, trawled, 4—5 fms), W76, W414, W1257, W1430, W1465, W1472, W2661,
W2717, W3031, W3032, W3033.
Australian Museum: Male, 31 mm, Moreton B., P7914; male, 44 mm, Gulf of Carpentaria, P6793;
five males (29-47 mm), eight females (18-50 mm), Gulf of Carpentaria.
DESCRIPTION
CARAPACE: Broader than long (1-16 to 1-28 times, see fig. 2); surface microscopically
punctate; regions not defined; median frontal groove imperceptable; concave depression
behind orbits extending laterally to second anterolateral teeth, forward to antennal
notches, and across post-frontal region as a very shallow concavity. Fronto-orbital
width 1:80-2:05 times frontal width (see fig. 2); front with two broad square-cut lobes,
their anterior margins straight or slightly concave, transverse, and sulcate. Infra-orbital
margin defined by a slightly raised rim which ends medially with a low, rounded, very
obtuse lobe separated by a shallow concavity from the larger, more acute inner suborbital |
tooth. Anterolateral margins with four teeth including external orbital angle. In smaller
specimens the very acute third tooth is much the more prominent, the second has the
longest outer margin, the fourth is the smallest, sometimes only demarcated by a fine
groove. With increase in carapace width the teeth are much reduced (see fig. 6K),
becoming gradually indistinguishable (see McCulloch, pl. 12, fig. 1.) in large specimens.
BASAL ANTENNAL JOINT: Antero-external angle produced to meet front so that
flagellum is excluded from orbit; frontal margin of projection shorter than orbital
margin.
CHELIPED: Upper border of merus usually with one or two small sharp granular
spines in middle of length, always with strong subdistal spine. Intermediate lobe between
subdistal spine and prominence for upper carpal articular condyle poorly developed or
absent, always much smaller than articular prominence when viewed in profile, sighting
across base of maxillipeds. Carpus with strong median spine, and narrow band of hairs
between this and upper articulation with propodus, sometimes carried right to lower
articulation, but only as narrow fringing band (covering less than one seventh of outer
face). Propodus smooth and rounded, with longitudinal groove near ventral edge of
outer surface extending back from tip of fixed finger for half length of chela.
AMBULATORY LeGs: Of moderate length, third ambulatory less than twice carapace
length. Propodus of last leg moderately slender, length 2:4-2-9 times width (see fig. 2).
134 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
MALE ABDOMEN: First, second, and third segments expanded laterally to meet
coxae of last legs; third and fourth segments rapidly tapering to base of fifth; length
of fifth segment less than (0-75-0-85 times) width of distal margin; sixth segment with
concave subparallel sides; terminal segment triangular, length 1-5 to 2-0 times width
(see fig. 2).
MALE PLeorpop: Of moderate length, not distinctly extending past point where
first sternal groove meets abdomen. Curved and tapering throughout length; tip
rounded; some terminal spinules bifid.
CoLour: After alcohol preservation pale cream, usually with single large reddish
central spot on carapace, reddish speckling anterior to this extending on to pterygostome
and maxillipeds and on upper surfaces of chelipeds; central spot sometimes paler, or
replaced by a complete or incomplete ring of close-set speckles with or without more
sparsely distributed speckles inside this ring.
DISTRIBUTION: Queensland coast from Gulf of Carpentaria to Moreton B.
DISCUSSION
Large specimens of this species are quite distinctive, having greatly reduced
anterolateral teeth, very large chelae, and a characteristic colour pattern. Smaller
specimens (c. 10-40 mm) differ quite markedly from these in having strongly developed
teeth, the third being markedly prominent.
These small specimens of EF. dorsalis show some similarity to Stimpson’s (1907)
description of £. dentata, but differ most notably in the ratio of the carapace width to the
fronto-orbital width. According to Stimpson the carapace width is a little greater
whereas in E. dorsalis it is c. 1-5 times. E. dorsalis further differs in having no frontal
notch, a tuft of pubescence on the outer surface of the wrist, and in the colouration
which is given as ‘*‘ Carapax gray or brown, whitish posteriorly, and with a transverse
narrow white band behind the eyes. The frontal region and feet punctate with red.
The species presents little or no variation in colour.’’ Stimpson states that E. dentata
is found in considerable numbers near Hong Kong so that the absence of large specimens
similar to £. dorsalis is a further argument for not synonymising the two.
Chhapgar (1957, pp. 437-8, pl. 11, figs. j, k, 1) refers eight specimens from Bombay
to E. dentata. In these specimens the frontal notch is present, but almost obsolete
(as was also reported by Alcock, 1900, p. 301 in his two specimens from Palk Str. and
Hong Kong) and the second, as well as the fourth, anterolateral tooth is quite incon-
spicuous. Chhapgar’s figure also differs from Stimpson’s description in that the fronto-
orbital width appears markedly less than the carapace width, and the colouration of his
specimens is “bright yellow with minute red spots scattered throughout. One of the
specimens has two black squarish patches on the outer sides of the gastric region.”
Chhapgar’s material differs from £. dorsalis in the absence of any indication of a central
patch on the carapace; in the extent of the pubescence on the wrist of the cheliped,
which covers about one third of the outer surface; in the second anterolateral tooth
being inconspicuous; and in the abrupt curve at the distal quarter of the male pleopod.
THE GENUS EUCRATE 135
Fic. 6: Eucrate dorsalis. A-G: female, Qd Mus. W2661. A, chela; B, carapace; C, suborbital rim;
D, basal antennal joint; E, merus of cheliped (see text); F, third maxilliped; G, last right
ambulatory leg.
H-J: male, Qd Mus. W1430. H, I, male pleopod (m. = median, s. = sternal, |. = lateral
faces); J, male abdomen.
K: carapace outlines of Qd Mus. W1519 (male, 18-5 mm); W1472 (female, 27-0 mm);
W1430 (male, 46-1 mm); W2717 (female, 53-9 mm); W414 (male, 53-5 mm).
Scale divisions | mm.
136 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
Eucrate crenata de Haan
(Figs. 2, 7.)
Cancer (Eucrate) crenatus de Haan, 1835, p. 51, pl. 15, fig. 1.
Pilumnoplax sulcatifrons Stimpson: Tozzetti, 1877, pp. 102-6, pl. 7, figs. 2 a-e.
{non] Pilumnoplax sulcatifrons Stimpson, 1858, p. 93.
Eucrate crenata de Haan: Alcock, 1900, p. 300. Shen, 1932, pp. 114-7, pl. 5, fig. 2. Sakai, 1939,
p. 562, pl. 102, fig. 1; 1965, pp. 186-9, pl. 83, fig. 4.
Although E. crenata does not occur in Australia a specimen from Japan in the
Australian Museum collections has been used to give description and figures comparable
with those of the Australian species.
MATERIAL EXAMINED
Australian Museum: Male, 30-5 mm, Japan, P720.
DESCRIPTION
CARAPACE: Broader than long (1-24 times); surface microscopically punctate;
regions not defined; median frontal groove very shallow, barely discernable; a shallow
concave depression behind orbits extending laterally to second anterolateral tooth,
forward to deep antennal notches and across post-frontal region as a very shallow
concavity. Fronto-orbital width 1-87 times frontal width; front with two broad square-
cut lobes, their anterior margins transverse and sulcate. Infra-orbital margin defined by
a slightly raised rim which ends medially in a rounded lobe well separated from the
much larger inner suborbital tooth. Both inner suborbital tooth and terminal lobe have
smaller subsidiary lobes lateral to them. Anterolateral margins short, curving (ratio of
distance between last teeth and fronto-orbital width 1:55 : 1); with four teeth including
external orbital angle all of similar shape, fourth smallest, first three subequal; a short
low ridge running postero-mesiad from the fourth tooth. Posterolateral margins without
distinct ridge.
BASAL ANTENNAL JOINT: Antero-external angle produced to meet front; frontal
margin of projection distinctly shorter than orbital margin.
CHELIPED: Upper border of merus with small spine in middle of length and
strong subdistal spine. Intermediate lobe between subdistal spine and prominence for
upper carpal articular condyle subequal to articular prominence when viewed in profile
sighting across base of maxillipeds. Inner angle of carpus with short median carina
ending in low proximal lobe and prominent distal spine. Tapering band of hairs running
from this spine to upper articular condyle and expanding to cover one third outer surface
of carpus. Propodus smooth and rounded with raised longitudinal ridge near ventral
edge of outer surface extending back for half length of chela.
AMBULATORY LeGs: Of moderate length, third ambulatory 1-8 times carapace
length. Propodus of last leg moderately slender, length 2:7 times width.
THE GENUS EUCRATE 137
MALE ABDOMEN: First, second, and third segments expanded laterally to meet
coxae of last legs; third and fourth segments rapidly tapering to base of fifth; length of
fifth segment much less than (0-75 times) width of distal margin; terminal segment
triangular, length 1-7 times width.
4
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'
|
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u
'
i
1
1
!
i
I
'
I
'
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Fic. 7: Eucrate crenata. Aust. Mus. P720. A, chela; B, carapace; C, suborbital rim; D, basal
antennal joint; E, last right ambulatory leg; F, merus of cheliped (see text); G, male
abdomen; H, third maxilliped; I, J, male pleopod (I. = lateral, a. = abdominal, m. = median
faces).
Scale divisions 1 mm, or 0-5 mm (broken line).
138 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
MALE PLEOPOD: Curved in proximal two thirds with straight, evenly tapering,
horny tip; some terminal spinules bifid.
CoLour: Very faded but with two smallish spots still evident mesiad to fourth
anterolateral teeth.
DISTRIBUTION: Japan (type locality, de Haan, 1835; Sakai, 1939; 1965); China
(Shen, 1932); to India (Alcock, 1900).
DISCUSSION
It has often been suggested that E. sulcatifrons could represent a juvenile form of
E. crenata, but the case for their distinctness is substantiated by Sakai’s discovery of
E. sulcatifrons in Japan and his recognition of it as a species distinct from E. crenata.
E. crenata appears closest to E. tripunctata and differences between the two are
discussed under that species.
Alcock’s description is not complete enough to provide, in itself, a definite record
of this species from India but his reference to de Haan and Tozzetti in the synonymy
increase the probability that his identification was correct.
Tozzetti’s (1877) specimen from Yokohama agrees well in all respects with
E. crenata, the short curving anterolateral margins, the proportions of the fifth and
seventh segments of the male abdomen, and the extent of the hairy patch on the outer
surface of the carpus of the cheliped being particularly significant.
DISCUSSION
In spite of the key given above it is to be expected that identification of some
specimens of this genus will still prove difficult. The extensive growth polymorphism
demonstrated in some species but only suspected in others, the probability of considerable
geographical variation, and even the possibility of short term temporal variation in
such things as colour patterns, are some of the expected complications. More attention
must be paid to such features as male pleopods, suborbital margins, and basal antennal
joints as, although the orbital lobes of the latter do shorten with increasing size of
specimen, all three can provide useful information. Further information is needed on
variability of material throughout the Indo-West Pacific and it is hoped that the present
paper might provide a starting point for these investigations.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I am grateful to Professor W. Stephenson, University of Queensland, whose
collected material provided the initial stimulus for this paper, to Mr. R. W. Ingle of the
British Museum for providing notes, figures and photographs of the holotype of
E. australiensis (Miers), and most especially to Dr. D. J. G. Griffin for assistance with
material from the Australian Museum, for stimulating general discussion, and for useful
specific criticisms.
THE GENUS EUCRATE 139
LITERATURE CITED
Atcock, A., 1900. Materials for a carcinological fauna of India. No. 6. The Brachyura Catometopa,
or Grapsoidea. J. Asiat. Soc. Beng. 69 (2): 279-456.
BARNARD, K. H., 1950. Descriptive catalogue of South African decapod Crustacea (crabs and shrimps).
Ann. S. Afr. Mus. 38: 1-824.
CAMPBELL, B. M. and STEPHENSON, W. in Ms. “Checklist of the sub-littoral Brachyura of Moreton Bay.”
CHHAPGAR, B. F., 1957. On the marine crabs (Decapoda: Brachyura) of Bombay State. Part I.
J. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 54 (2): 399-439, pl. A, 1-11.
Epmonpson, C. H., 1962. Hawaiian Crustacea: Goneplacidae, Pinnotheridae, Cymopoliidae,
Ocypodidae, and Gecarcinidae. Occ. Pap. Bishop Mus. 23 (1): 1-27.
GriFFIN, D. J. G. and CAmpBELL, B. M., 1969. The sub-littoral Goneplacids and Pinnotherids
(Crustacea: Brachyura) of Moreton Bay. Mem. Qd Mus. 15 (3): 141-63.
DE HAAN, W., 1835. Crustacea. Jn P. F. VON Srepo_p, ‘‘ Fauna Japonica.’ (J. Miiller and Sons:
Amsterdam).
HaAsweL_, W. A., 1881. On some new Australian Brachyura. Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W. 6: 540-51.
1882. ‘Catalogue of the Australian Stalk- and Sessile-eyed Crustacea.”” (Australian Museum:
Sydney).
McCu_tocu, A. R., 1908. Studies in Australian Crustacea. No. 1. Rec. Aust. Mus. 7 (1): 51-59, pl. 12.
1909. Studies in Australian Crustacea. No. 2. Rec. Aust. Mus. 7 (4): 305-14, pl. 88.
MAN, J. G. DE, 1887. Report on the podophthalmous Crustacea of the Mergui Archipelago, collected
for the trustees of the Indian Museum, Calcutta, by Dr. John Anderson, F.R.S., Superintendent
of the Museum. J. Linn. Soc. Zool. 22 (137): 65-128, pls. 4-8.
Miers, E. J., 1884. Crustacea. Jn ‘‘ Report of the Zoological Collections made in the Indo-Pacific
Ocean during the Voyage of H.M.S. Alert, 1881-1882." pp. 178-322, pls. 18-24. (London).
RatHBuN, M. J., 1906. The Brachyura and Macrura of the Hawaiian Islands Bull. U.S. Fish Comm.
1903 (3): 827-930, pls. 1-24.
1915. (Scientific results of the Philippine cruise of the fisheries steamer “Albatross *’, 1907—1910.—
No. 32). A new genus and some new species of crabs of the family Goneplacidae Proc. U.S.
Nat. Mus. 48: 137-54.
SAKAI, T., 1939. ‘‘ Studies on the Crabs of Japan. IV. Brachygnatha, Brachyrhyncha.”” pp. 365-741,
pls. 42-111. (Yokendo Ltd.: Tokyo.)
1965. ‘“* The Crabs of Sagami Bay ”’ pp. i-xvi, 1-206, 1-92, 1-32, pls. 1-100. (Maruzen: Tokyo.)
STEBBING, T. R. R., 1921. South African Crustacea (Part XI of S.A. Crustacea, for the Marine
Investigations of South Africa). Ann. S. Afr. Mus. 18: 453-468, pls. 13-20.
STEPHENSEN, K., 1945. The Brachyura of the Iranian Gulf. Dan. Sci. Invest. Iran, Pt. 4: 57-237.
140 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
STIMPSON, W., 1858. Prodromus descriptionis animalium evertebratorum quae in Expeditione ad
Oceanum Pacificum Septentrionalem, a Republica Federata missa, Cadwaladaro Ringgold et
Johanne Rodgers Ducibus, observavit et descripsit. Pars V. Crustacea Ocypodoidea. Proc.
Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. 1858: 93-110,
1907. Report on the Crustacea (Brachyura and Anomura) collected by the North Pacific Exploring
Expedition, 1853-56. Smithson. Misc. Coll. 49 (1717): 1-240, pls. 1-26.
Tescu, J. J., 1918. The Decapoda Brachyura of the Siboga—Expedition, V [erroneously numbered II].
Goneplacidae and Pinnotheridae. Sibogu Exped., Monogr. 39 cl, Livr. 84, pp. 149-296, pls.
7-18.
Tozzetti, A. T., 1877. Zoologia del Viaggio intorno al Globo della R. Pirocorvetta Magenta durante
gli anni 1865-1868. Crostacei Brachyurie Anomouri. Pub/. R. Ist. di Studi. Super. Firenze 1:
i-xxix, 1-257, pls. 1-12.
Wuite, A., 1848. Description of two new species of Crustacea. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1848: 144,
pl. Annulosa 6.
141
THE SUB-LITTORAL GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE
(CRUSTACEA: BRACHYURA) OF MORETON BAY
D. J. G. GRIFFIN
Australian Museum, Sydney
and
B. M. CAMPBELL
Queensland Museum
ABSTRACT
Typhiocarcinops tonsurata, a new species close to T. decrescens Rathbun,
is described and the following species are recorded and discussed: Rhizopa
gracilipes (= Speocarcinus luteus McNeill); Xenophthalmodes dolicophallus
(= X. moebii: Barnard); Eucrate sexdentata; E. dorsalis; Ommatocarcinus
macgillivrayi (= O. huttoni); Xenophthalmus pinnotheroides; and Pinnotheres
spinidactylus, both sexes of which are redescribed and figured. Illustrations
include the male first pleopods.
The material reported on has been obtained primarily from dredging and trawling
Operations carried out in Moreton Bay (M.B.) by the Zoology Department of the
University of Queensland (Z.D.U.Q.) under the direction of Professor W. Stephenson
(W.S.). Most of this material has been deposited at the Queensland Museum (Qd Mus.)
and some duplicate material has been sent to the Australian Museum, Sydney (Aust.
Mus.). Additional specimens in the collections of these institutions have also been
examined.
Localities are indicated with reference to the charts of Moreton Bay published by the
Department of Harbours and Marine, Queensland, 1964 edition. To facilitate location
of these localities Moreton Bay is here arbitrarily divided into sections (see fig. 1) and a
grid reference to these sections is included in bold face with each locality listed.
Measurements relating to the size of a specimen are given as width across the
widest part of the carapace. All drawings have been made with the aid of a camera
lucida.
142 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
Family GONEPLACIDAE
Genus Rhizopa Stimpson
Rhizopa gracilipes Stimpson
(Figs. 2A—C, 6A.)
Rhizopa gracilipes Stimpson, 1858, p. 95. Rathbun, 1910, pp. 342-3, fig. 27. Tesch, 1918,
p. 201 (in key). Serene, 1964, pp. 198-203, fig. 2, pl. 17A.
Speocarcinus luteus McNeill, 1929, pp. 152-4, figs. 1-4, pl. 36.
MORETON BAY MATERIAL: Female (14-5 mm), 3 miles SW. of M3 red beacon, 2C, dredged,
mud, 10.xi.1961, W.S., Qd Mus. W2713. Female (13-5 mm), 14 miles N. of Hope Beacon, 4C, 4 fms,
gritty mud, 18.vii.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2857. Female (ovig.) (14-5 mm), NW. of Hanlon Light,
5D, dredged, muddy sand, 12.x.1961, W.S., Qd Mus. W2897. Male (11 mm), | mile NE. of Hanlon
Light, 5D, dredged 34 fms, muddy sand, 12.11.1968, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2955. Male (11 mm),
24 miles N. of Pat’s Pt., 6D, dredged 44 fms, sandy mud, 12.ii.1968, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2954.
Female (ovig.) (7 mm), female (12 mm), off SW. point of Peel I., 6D, dredged 5-6 fms, 5.xii.1961,
T. Hailstone, Qd Mus. W2895-6. Female (ovig.) (16-5 mm), | mile NE. of Coochiemudlo I., 6D,
24 fms, gritty sand, 13.x.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2900. Female (13 mm), 14 miles SW. of Goat I.,
6D, 64 fms, gritty sand, 12.x.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2898. Male (14-5 mm), 2 miles SE. of Sandy [.,
6C, 24 fms, shelly sand, 6.x.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2899.
Male (16:5 mm), Mud I., M.B., 19.11.1942, V. F. Collin, Qd Mus. W1475.
ADDITIONAL MATERIAL: Male (17 mm), female (13 mm), taken in suction dredge ** Triton ”
off Pott’s Point, Port Jackson, N.S.W., 30.x.1942, M. Ward, Qd Mus. W1534. Male (21 mm), (holotype
of Speocarcinus luteus), two males (16,20 mm), female (11 mm) (paratypes of S. /uteus), Salamander B.,
Port Stephens, N.S.W., dredged 6 fms, mud, 24.ix.1919, A. R. McCulloch, Aust. Mus. P4489. Three
males, female (13—18-5 mm), Port Jackson, N.S.W., about 6 fms, pres. Capt. L. Comtesse, Aust. Mus.
P11449. Female (22 mm), Refuge Bay, Hawkesbury R., N.S.W., on mud flat at low tide, 14.xi.1953,
pres. Mrs. L. Woolacott, Aust. Mus. P12338. Male (15-5 mm), female (19 mm), near Sow and Pigs
Shoal, Port Jackson, N.S.W., about 5 fms, 1931, pres. Capt. L. Comtesse, Aust. Mus. P10087. Three
males, three females (12-18-5 mm), off Dawes Pt., Port Jackson, N.S.W., about 5 fms, ? 1933, pres.
W. J. Hale, Aust. Mus. P10285.
The small series of specimens from Moreton Bay agrees with previous descriptions
of this species, especially by Rathbun (1910), and by Serene (1964). Thus, the surface
of the carapace is smooth except near the lateral margins where numerous very small
granules are present but obscured by very short hairs which occur mainly near the
lateral margins and in the grooves on each side of the cardiac region. The two notches
along the anterolateral margins are shallow and very poorly defined, especially the
anterior one. The central groove running back from the front is very shallow indeed
but is partly defined by short tomentum. The anterior and anterolateral margins bear a
fringe of long hairs which extends across above the orbits and just backward of the margin
of the front itself. The eyestalks are quite large and the cornea well developed, ventral
Fic. 1: Moreton Bay, showing arbitrary grid reference (based on intervals of 0° 05’ lat. and long.)
used to group localities.
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY 143
ake | c
BRIBIE |.
TOORBUL PT.
REDCLIFFE
\ MORETON
BAY
BRISBANE R.
STRADBROKE I.
6
J
e | ee
aw;
144 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
and terminal. The merus of the third maxillipeds is hardly expanded at its anterolateral
corner and the surface is smooth or very finely granular; the proximal part of the medial
edge is somewhat more strongly granular.
However, this material differs markedly from previous descriptions in the
ornamentation of the chela. In all females examined by us the outer surface of the
hand is not smooth but bears prominent more or less round tubercles, particularly
along the elevated crest on the ventral edge, towards the dorsal edge where they are
covered by long hairs, and on the outer surface proximally and ventrally, more or less
in oblique longitudinal rows. There are also small tubercles beneath long hairs on the
proximal part of the dactyl dorsally.
Fic. 2: A-C, Rhizopa gracilipes. A, chela of male, 21 mm, Aust. Mus. P4489; B, chela of female,
Aust. Mus. P12338; C, third maxilliped, male 21 mm, Aust. Mus. P4489.
D, Xenophthalmodes dolicophallus, Qd Mus. W2901, chela.
E, X. moebii, Aust. Mus. P2700, chela.
Scale lines 5 mm in A and B, 2 mm in C-E.
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY 145
Examination of the series of specimens used by McNeill in the original description
of Speocarcinus luteus shows firstly, that these specimens are conspecific with the Moreton
Bay material discussed above and are referable to Rhizopa gracilipes and secondly,
that the tuberculation of the outer face of the chela is highly variable with sex and size.
McNeill’s original description is detailed and accurate but the illustrations are
variable and that showing the third maxillipeds is inaccurate, especially as to shape of the
merus, the anterolateral angle (in the holotype—a male, cw. 21 mm) not being greatly
produced nor truncate as shown. The outer surface of the chela of the holotype is
granular dorsally only, not ventrally as apparently indicated in McNeill’s pl. 36, fig. 2;
the ventral proximal region actually shows traces of a few short hairs. In the holotype
and paratype males, the abdomen differs slightly from the figure given by Serene (fig.
2B) in that the lateral angle of the third segment is slightly more acute and the lateral
margins of the sixth and seventh segments are almost straight, not concave; the lateral
margin of the third segment is weakly convex distally, not concave as in Serene’s figure.
Examination of other specimens shows the shape of the abdomen to be slightly variable.
These same differences are apparent when Serene’s figure is compared with Rathbun’s
(fig. 27a).
In regard to granulation of the outer surface of the chela, examination of all available
material shows that specimens of both sexes 12-15 mm or smaller possess numerous
granules covering most of the ventral half but diminishing in number and size distally.
The same is true of larger females in which the chelae of the largest specimens are still
fairly strongly granulate. In larger males, however, the granules become fewer and are
found only near the proximal part ventrally. In the largest males (20 mm or more—
e.g. the holotype of S. /uteus) the outer surface is smooth.
The extent of the short tomentum on the dorsal surface of the carapace is somewhat
variable—in some specimens the lateral band is broad and extends inwards at two
places more or less opposite the anterolateral emarginations.
The first pleopod of the holotype of Speocarcinus luteus agrees completely with the
figure of R. gracilipes given by Serene (fig. 2C).
DISTRIBUTION: Gulf of Siam (Rathbun), Chinese Seas (Stimpson). Eastern Australia,
from Moreton Bay to Port Jackson (McNeill, Serene, and present report).
Genus Xenophthalmodes Richters
Xenophthalmodes dolichophallus Tesch
(Figs. 2D, 6C.)
Xenophthalmodes dolichophallus Tesch, 1918, pp. 216-7, pl. 14, figs. 1, la, 1b. Stephensen, 1945,
pp. 178-9, figs. 47C, E.
Xenophthalmodes moebii: Barnard, 1950, pp. 297-9, figs. 56 a-c.
[non] Xenophthalmodes moebii Richters, 1880.
MORETON BAY MATERIAL: Male (10-5 mm), 1 mile W. of M3 red beacon, 2C, dredged
8 fms, 29.x.1962, W.S., Qd Mus. W2901. Four females (7-5-10 mm), 3 miles SW. of M3 red beacon,
2C, dredged, mud, 10.xi.1961, W.S., Aust. Mus. P15788. Female (8 mm), 3 miles W. of Shark Spit,
B
146 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
Moreton I., 2C, 124 fms, sand with litthe mud, 5.x.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2902. Male (11 mm),
W. of Shark Spit, Moreton I., 2D, dredged 154 fms, muddy, 1.vi.1962, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2815.
Male (10 mm), 3} miles SE. of wreck off Mud I., 4C, 10 fms, sandy mud, 30.vili.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd
Mus. W2903. Female (9:5 mm), 2 miles N. of Hope Banks, 4C, dredged, 10 fms, muddy sand, 1.vi.1962,
W.S., Qd Mus. W2710.
The specimens agree well with Tesch’s notes as to differences from X. moebii
Richters. The tomentum covering the carapace is extremely short and the margins
bear long hairs, the dorsal surface bears small crowded granules towards the margins
laterally, the front is deeply notched, only a very small area of pigment is visible at the
distal end of the eyestalk ventrally, the epistome is vertical and without a posterior
ridge, and the longitudinal sulcus is shallow. The third maxillipeds are as described
by Tesch—ischium broad, the merus anterolaterally rounded—but differ from his figure
in that the greatest width of the ischium is midway along, at the angle, not across the
distal margin. The carpus of the cheliped has a short spiniform projection at the inner
angle as mentioned by Tesch. However, the chelae are weakly pubescent in the females,
naked in the male, except proximally, and smooth in all specimens except for a granular
ridge along the ventral and dorsal edges of the palm. The two males possess the long
pleopods characteristic of this species. The male abdomen differs from Tesch’s figure
only in that the lateral margins of the second segment are rounded, not straight and
divergent.
There is a single specimen labelled XY. moebii (see fig. 2e) in the Australian Museum
collections (male, 9°55 mm, Malabar coast, India, coll. “‘ Investigator’, exch. Indian
Museum, May 1900, P2700) which was probably identified by Alcock. This agrees with
the specimens from Moreton Bay which we refer to X. dolichophallus in the following
features: carapace with long hairs laterally, otherwise with very short tomentum, surface
laterally granulate; front bilobate anteriorly; ischiiim of third maxilliped wider than
merus; cheliped with edges of the segments granulate and bearing long fringes of hairs;
and dorsal and ventral edges of ambulatories bearing long fringes of hairs. The abdomen
of the male is almost the same shape as in_X. dolichophallus and the sternum around the
edges of the abdominal fossa is obscurely granulate and pubescent. However, the
lateral and anterior edges of the merus of the third maxilliped do form an obtuse angle
at their junction; the carpus of the cheliped bears a short, sharp spine at the anteromedial
angle; the chela is of a different shape, the palm being of about equal width throughout
and longer than high with the outer surface bearing a broad band of small tubercles
among thick tomentum and scattered hairs along the ventral edge, the band tapering
to a thin line at the tip of the fixed finger, and with similar tubercles, tomentum and
hairs on the dorsal edge of the palm and on the dorsal edge of the dactyl proximally;
the sternites in front of the abdominal fossa are flat, not excavate, and the first pleopod
is short and sinuous, curving inwards half way along and outwards apically. In all
these features there is agreement with previous descriptions and figures of X. moebii
(Alcock, 1900; Tesch, 1918).
Barnard (1950) figures a male specimen in which the pleopods are extremely long
and straight. Barnard’s material, according to his description, also agrees with X.
dolichophallus but not X. moebii in the even curve of the merus of the third maxilliped
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY 147
laterally, “‘ angular’ carpus of the cheliped, ‘‘ sharp’ edges of the chelae, excavation
of the anterior sternites in front of the abdominal fossa, and the first segment of the
abdomen extends laterally for only one-third of the width of the adjacent sternal plate
(see Barnard, 1955, fig. 15e).
X. brachyphallus Barnard, 1955, from Inhambane (East Africa), differs from Y.
dolichophallus and X. moebii in having the outer surface of the palm of the chela margined
with a broad band of hair, and the first pleopod of the male distally weakly expanded.
DISTRIBUTION: East coast of Java, west coast of Flores and south of Celebes (Tesch).
Moreton Bay, Queensland (present report). ? Delagoa Bay, South Africa (Barnard).
Genus Typhlocarcinops Rathbun
Typhlocarcirops tonsurata sp. nov.
(Figs. 3, 6B.)
MORETON BAY MATERIAL: Holotype, male (8-8 mm), 8 miles E. of Scarborough, 2C,
dredged on rising shallowing banks, 30 ft, fine sand, 10.xi.1961, W.S., Qd Mus. W2911.
DESCRIPTION: Carapace slightly shorter than wide (width 1-22 times length),
widest midway along. Surface covered everywhere by very short tomentum which is
particularly dense laterally; a fringe of long hairs laterally and of short hairs anteriorly;
surface almost flat from side to side, strongly vaulted posterolaterally, strongly convex
from front to back; front narrow (c. 0-22 carapace width, 0-53 fronto-orbital width),
bilobate, projecting; anterolateral margins convex, bearing two shallow indentations,
the first broad, the second narrow, defining a broad, weakly rounded lobe just forward
of the widest part of the carapace; posterolateral margins weakly convergent; posterior
margin weakly convex, bordered by a narrow, low ridge. Orbits well formed, filled by
short, broad (1/b = 1-25), immovable eyestalks with small, rounded terminal cornea
only partly visible.
Antennae extremely short, stout. Epistome not extremely short; weakly concave
posteriorly, with a narrow ridge prominent medially; surface concave medially.
Sides of carapace, pterygostomian regions, third maxillipeds, sternum, and abdomen
covered by short tomentum partly concealing small round granules except on ischium
and central part of merus of third maxillipeds, central parts of sternites, and abdomen,
which are smooth.
Third maxillipeds with ischium wider midway along than greatest width of merus,
centrally with a prominent oblique groove; merus broader than long (1-2 times), very
weakly excavate near medial margin, lateral and anterior margins almost forming a
smooth arc, weakly angled at their junction; palp short, stout, fringed with long hairs.
Chelipeds short (1:5 times carapace width), robust, outer face of merus, carpus and
chela margined by broad tand of tomentum, edges with fringes of long hairs and small
granules, inner face of all segments mostly naked, all naked areas smooth and porcelain
148 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
white. Merus trigonal. Carpus subcylindrical, minutely granular dorsally, particularly
near inner angle. Palm of chela compressed, about as long as high, highest close to
distal edge; fingers stout, with broad teeth along inner edge, dactyl crossing behind fixed
finger when closed.
Ambulatory legs compressed, covered by tomentum, dorsal and ventral edges of all
segments bearing fringes of long hairs. Dactyli of first legs longest, second and third
subequal, fourth shortest.
Fic. 3: Typhlocarcinops tonsurata, holotype. A, carapace; B, third maxilliped; C, male abdomen;
D, chela.
Scale divisions 1 mm.
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY 149
Abdomen of seven segments, widest at base of first segment which almost completely
occupies the entire width between bases of last ambulatory legs; second segment much
narrower; third segment widening abruptly, then tapering to fourth segment; fourth
segment little narrower than second segment; abdomen evenly tapering from base of
fourth segment to rounded tip of last segment which is almost as wide as long.
First pleopod sinuous, carrying two series of short to moderate bristles distally,
the median terminal bristles being stoute1 than the late1als. (Distal half of right pleopod
of holotype missing; left pleopod twice fractured.)
Discussion: Tesch (1918, pp. 210-1) has discussed the close affinity of the genus
Typhlocarcinops with Typhlocarcinus and disagrees with Rathbun’s action in creating
the sub-family Typhlocarcinopsinae for this genus. The justification for retaining this
sub-family would rest solely in the very marked lateral production of the first abdominal
segment of the males in Typhlocarcinops and Tesch has pointed out that a tendancy for
lateral production also exists, though to a lesser extent, in Typhlocarcinus. This tendancy
is most obvious in T. villosus Stimpson (see Serene, 1964, fig. 4B) and 7. rubidus Alcock
(see Serene, 1964, fig. 5B) but in neither of these does the first segment nearly occupy
the entire breadth of the sternum. Of the species of Typhlocarcinops, T. tonsurata probably
has the least produced first segment, but this in fact does very nearly occupy the entire
breadth of the sternum. While there is thus insufficient reason to include Typhlocarcinops
in a family separate from Typhlocarcinus there can be little doubt that these genera
are in fact distinctly separable and that this present species belongs in Typhlocarcinops.
T. tonsurata further differs from Typhlocarcinus villosus and T. rubidus in having a more
projecting front and non-granulate, trilobate carapace margins, and in the shape and
armature of the male first pleopod.
Serene (1964, p. 222) listed 7 species of Typhlocarcinops, described two new species,
and described and figured a specimen which he doubtfully referred to 7. canaliculata
Rathbun. In view of the marked difference in carapace shape between his specimen
and those of Rathbun, even when allowance is made for the fact that Rathbun’s were
juveniles, the total number of species in this genus, including 7. tonsurata, is probably
eleven.
These eleven species can be divided, on the basis of carapace shape, into two groups,
those with broad carapace (b/1 greater than 1-4) being 7. stephenseni Serene, T. canali-
culata: Serene (non Rathbun), 7. transversa Tesch and T. angustifrons Rathbun. Of
those with narrow carapaces (b/1 less than 1-4), 7. canaliculata Rathbun, T. angustipes
Tesch, and 7. ocularia Rathbun have the anterolateral margins entire and are thus
separable from 7. marginata Rathbun, T. decrescens Rathbun, T. gallardoi Serene,
and 7. tonsurata.
T. tonsurata is distinguished from 7. marginata and T. gallardoi (see Serene, 1964,
pp. 227-33, figs. 10, 11, pls. 20A, 20B) by its narrow, projecting front, the lack of
conspicuous grooving on the carapace, the anterolateral margins which are not
conspicuously granulate and are twice indented, and the lateral margins of the sixth
segment of the male abdomen which are distinctly convergent distally.
150 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
Comparison with 7. decrescens was made difficult by inaccuracies in published
figures of this species. Sakai (1965, p. 172) mentions several discrepancies between
Tesch’s (1918) pl. 13 fig. 4 and the holotype, and there are also discrepancies between
Sakai’s own figures and the measurements given by Rathbun (1914, p. 151) for the
holotype. We are most grateful to Henry B. Roberts of the United States National
Museum for comparing the holotype of 7. decrescens with Sakai’s figures and with
figures of 7. tonsurata, for providing sketches of the holotype, and for the loan of a para-
type, USNM122579. In the holotype and paratype the merus of the outer maxilliped is
not as short and broad as in Sakai’s fig. 22d and the outer angle is not strongly produced
laterally; the front is produced well beyond the level of the inner angles of the orbits
and the frontal width is half the fronto-orbital width which is 0:44-0:45 times the
carapace width; the first segment of the male abdomen is shorter and broader, the
remaining segments, especially the third, are much narrower than as depicted by Sakai
(fig. 22c), and the deep median groove running back from the front in Saka1’s pl. 84, fig. 5
is not present. Sakai’s figures do agree with the type material in 1/b ratio and in the
production of the posterolateral angles of the carapace. In the paratype, the shape of
the male pleopod is as depicted by Sakai but the three distal spines of the lateral series
are much longer, approximately twice the shaft thickness, and cross behind the curved
tip.
T. tonsurata differs from 7. decrescens in the following particulars:
(1) The posterolateral margins of the carapace are not conspicuously produced.
(2) The anterolateral margin of the carapace is more conspicuously lobate,
its anterior third more transverse.
(3) The eyestalks are shorter and broader (1/b = 1-25 in T. tonsurata, 1-60 in
T. decrescens paratype).
(4) The surface of the carapace is entirely covered with a very short tomentum.
(5) The merus of the third maxilliped is broader than long (1-2 times) whereas
in 7. decrescens it is as broad as long.
Genus Eucrate de Haan
Eucrate sexdentata Haswell
Eucrate sexdentatus Haswell, 1881, p. 548: 1882, p. 86.
[non] Pseudorhombilia vestita (de Haan), var. sexdentata, Haswell [sic]: Miers, 1884, pp. 240-1,
pl. 24B.
Eucrate sexdentata: Alcock, 1900, p. 301. Campbell, 1969, pp. 120-2, fig. 1.
MORETON BAY MATERIAL: Male (20 mm), + mile SSW. of red beacon, Toorbul Pt., 1A,
dredged 4 fms, muddy, 29.x.1962, Z.D.U.Q., Aust. Mus. P15246. Male (6:5 mm), | mile off shore
E. of Redcliffe water tower, 2A, 15.xii.1964, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2806. Male (15 mm), 3 miles
NNE. of Pile Light, 3B, 29.iv.1964, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2808. Male (18 mm), 2 miles NE. of Pile
Light, 3B, 29.iv.1964, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2817. Female (16 mm), 34 miles SW. of Shark Spit, 3C,
dredged 13 fms, mud, 23.11.1962. Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus, W2715. Female (ovig.) (16 mm), 3 miles ENE.
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY 151
of Mud I., 3C, dredged 10 fms, 14.xii.1952, Aust. Mus. P15253. Female (15 mm) 2 miles N. of E. end
of Mud I., 3C, 64 fms, mud, 25.v.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2818. Female (12 mm), 44 miles NW.
of sand hills on Moreton I., 3D, 11-12 fms, 1.vi.1962, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2726. Male (15 mm),
5 miles E. of north beacon, St. Helena I., 4C, dredged 11-12 fms, 13.xii.1962, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus.
W2648. Female (20 mm), 4 mile E. of Wellington Pt., 5C, 5-6 fms, muddy sand, Z7.D.U.Q., Aust.
Mus. P15258. Female (23-5 mm), 1? miles SSE. of Goat I., 6D, 24 fms, gritty mud, 12.x.1967,
Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2909.
ADDITIONAL MATERIAL: Female (ovig.) (17-5 mm), off Jumpin Pin, SE. Qd, trawled 26 fms,
late 1962, L. Wale, Qd Mus. W2812.
This species has been redescribed and figured by Campbell (1969).
DISTRIBUTION: Port Denison (Haswell, 1882), India (Alcock, 1900,) and Moreton B.
Eucrate dorsalis (White)
Cancer (Galene) dorsalis White, 1848, p. 144, pl. Annulosa 6.
Eucrate dorsalis; McCulloch, 1909, p. 314. Campbell, 1969, pp. 133-5, figs. 2, 6.
MORETON BAY MATERIAL: Female (54 mm), 1 mile SW. of Mud I., 5B, trawled 4—5 fms,
16.11.1966, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2717. Female (ovig.) (51 mm), 8 miles E. of Scarborough, 3B,
trawled 44 fms, sandy, 10.xi.1961, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2647.
Male (31 mm), Sandgate. Moreton B., M. Ward, Aust. Mus. P7914. Three males (51-63 mm),
Moreton B., 24.v.1917, A. Fooks, Qd Mus. W76. Male (53-5 mm), Cleveland, Moreton B., 10.xii.1932,
A. Spence, Qd Mus. W414. Male (16 mm), Hayes Inlet, Moreton B.. 27.v.1941, W. Duus, Qd Mus.
W1257. Male (15 mm), Mud I., Moreton B., 15.x.1941, V. F. Collin, Qd Mus. W1430. Female
(19 mm), Mud I., Moreton B., 28.1.1942, V. F. Collin, Qd Mus. W1465. Female (27 mm), Mud I.,
Moreton B., 1.i1.1942, V. F. Collin, Qd Mus. W1472. Female (42 mm), trawled off Otter Rock beacon,
6.i11.1967, L. Woodland, Qd Mus. W2661. Male (18-5 mm), Mud I., Moreton B., 12.x.1942, V. F.
Collin, Qd Mus. W3032. Male (38 mm), Mud I., Moreton B., 26.v.1944, V. F. Collin, Qd Mus.
W3033.
ADDITIONAL MATERIAL: Male (44 mm), Observation I., Gulf of Carpentaria, N.Qd, W.
Paradice, Aust. Mus. P6793.
This species has been redescribed and figured by Campbell (1969).
DISTRIBUTION: Queensiand coast from Gulf of Carpentaria to Moreton B.
Genus Ommatocarcinus White
Ommatocarcinus macgillivrayi White
(Figs. 4, 6D.)
Ommatocarcinus Macgillivrayi White, 1852, pp. 393-4, pl. 5, fig. 1.
Ommatocarcinus macgillivrayi: Sakai, 1934, p. 314, fig. 22; 1939, p. 564, pl. 102, fig. 5; 1965,
p. 170, pl. 84, fig. 3.
Ommatocarcinus sp.: Yokoya, 1933, pp. 198-9, fig. 65.
[non] Ommatocarcinus macgillivrayi: Miers, 1886, pp. 247-8. Chilton and Bennett, 1929, pp.
757-8. Bennett, 1964, pp. 74-5, figs. 79-83, 135. (= O. huttoni Filhol).
152 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
MORETON BAY MATERIAL: Four males (56-61 mm), Woody Pt., 3A, 4.vi.1926, J. Askew,
Qd Mus. W3039. Male (59 mm), Woody Pt., 3A, 16.xii.1941, N. Adams, Qd Mus. W1445.
The present specimens agree well with White’s (1852) figure of this species, but
differ markedly from illustrations of Japanese specimens (Yokoya, 1933; Sakai 1934,
1965) in the length of the chelipeds. In Yokoya’s 14 mm specimen the chelipeds nearly
equal the carapace width, in Sakai’s 32mm specimen they are 1-3 times as long, and in
our 56 mm specimen they are 2:5 times as long. An equivalent elongation of the chelipeds
with growth is mentioned in the New Zealand species by Bennett (1964). The palps of
the third maxillipeds as figured by Yokoya appear too small but in other respects—the
obtuse transverse ridge across the carapace, the anteriorly widening buccal area, the
length of the eye-stalks, and the fine spinulation of the ambulatory meri—the Japanese
specimens agree well with the present specimens, and there is no reason to consider
them specifically distinct as was suggested by Bennett (1964, p. 74).
Fic. 4: Ommatocarcinus macgillivrayi, male 61 mm, Qd Mus. W3039. A, carapace; B, male abdomen;
C, third maxilliped.
Scale divisions | mm.
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY 153
This species, while quite close to the New Zealand O. huttoni, differs from it in the
following particulars:
(1) The eye-stalks of the adults are longer, so that the exorbital spine does not
reach to the base of the cornea.
(2) There is a distinct, obtuse, transverse ridge running across the carapace on the
anterior third.
(3) The male abdomen is broader, and composed of seven distinctly separate
segments.
(4) The lateral borders of the buccal area are subparallel, not narrowing
anteriorly.
(5) The merus of the ambulatory legs is less distinctly spinose, with the subdistal
spinule very small.
(6) The orbital margins are less arcuate.
(7) The lateral carapace spine is more slender.
(8) The carpus of the cheliped bears a distinct spine on its inner angle.
Neither Chilton and Bennett nor Bennett mention the strong milled ridge which
runs below, and parallel to, the suborbital border and which, together with the short
ridge on the base of the merus of the cheliped, forms a stridulatory mechanism in the
Australian species. It is quite possible that this was overlooked and that it is, in fact,
present in O. huttoni.
DISTRIBUTION: Queensland from Port Curtis (type locality, White, 1852) and
Moreton Bay; Japan (Yokoya, 1933; Sakai, 1934, 1965).
Family PINNOTHERIDAE
Genus Xenophthalmus White
Xenophthalmus pinnotheroides White
(Figs. 5, 6E.)
Xenophthalmus pinnotheroides White, 1846, p. 178, pl. 2, fig. 2. Adams and White, 1848, p. 63,
pl. 12, figs. 2, 3a. H. Milne Edwards, 1853, p. 221. Stimpson, 1858, p. 107. Sluiter, 1881,
p. 162. Henderson, 1893, p. 394. Rathbun, 1910, p. 338, fig. 22. Tesch, 1918, pp. 272-4.
Shen, 1937, pp. 301-4, fig. lla-g; 1948, pp. 113-4, fig. 4. Stephensen, 1945, pp. 186-7,
fig. 54.
Xenophthalmus pinnoteroides: Alcock, 1900, pp. 332-3.
MORETON BAY MATERIAL: Female (12:5 mm), ? mile W. of Toorbul Pt. beacon, 1A, 3 fms,
gritty sandy mud, 14.viii.1967, W.S., Qd Mus. W2858. Female (17 mm), 1 mile S. of Bribie beacon,
1A, 3 fms, clean fine sand, 14.viii.1967, W.S., Qd Mus. W2853. Female (14-5 mm), 1 mile SE. of
Skirmish Pt., 1B, 2 fms, sand ripple, 14.viii.1967, W.S., Qd Mus. W2856. Male (9 mm), 54-6 miles
ENE. of Scarborough, 1B, dredged 24 fms, 6.vii.1962, W.S., Qd Mus. W2908. Male (10 mm), | mile
SE. of Redcliffe Jetty, 2A, 34 fms, mud with shell and grit, 15.xii.1964, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2804.
Three males, two females (9-17-5 mm), 1 mile offshore E. of Redcliffe water tower, 2A, 3 fms, mud
154 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
Fic. 5: NXenophthalmus pinnotheroides, male 16 mm, Qd Mus. W2906. A, dactyl and propodus of
right first ambulatory leg; B, last three segments of right second ambulatory leg; C, third
makxilliped; D, chela: E, male abdomen.
Scale divisions | mm.
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY 155
Fic. 6: Male first pleopods of A, Rhizopa gracilipes, Qd Mus. W1475; B, Typhlocarcinops tonsurata,
holotype; CC, Xenophthalmodes dolicophallus, Qd Mus. W2815; D, Ommatocarcinus
macgillivravi, Qd Mus. W3039; E, Xenophthalmus pinnotheroides, Qd Mus. W2905.
a = abdominal, | = lateral,
m = medial, s = sternal faces.
Scale lines | mm and 0-5 mm (broken line).
156 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
and shell, 15.xii.1964, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2801, W2809. Four males, four females (ovig.) (11-16 mm,
smallest ovig. female 11 mm), 200 yds S. of Scarborough blinker, 2A, dredged 3 fms, 29.x.1962, W.S.,
Aust. Mus. P15789. Male, five females (6-5-10 mm), 100 yds NW. of Scarborough blinker, 2A,
dredged 34 fms, sandy grit, 29.x.1962, W.S., Qd Mus. W2907. Five males, ten females (9-23 mm),
4+ mile NE. of Old Pile Light, 3B, 15.v.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2814. Male (10 mm), female
(15 mm), 4 mile N. of Mud I., 3C, dredged 3 fms, mud, 19.iv.1961, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2716. Two
males, two females (12-5—16 mm), 4 mile E. of St. Helena I., S. beacon in line with middle of Green I.,
4C, dredged 4 fms, 13.xii.1962, W.S., Qd Mus. W2906. Male (15-5 mm), S. end of St. Helena I. in
line with Nazareth House, 4C, dredged 54-6 fms, 3.xii.1962, W.S., Aust. Mus. P15790. Two males,
female (5-5-8 mm), 2 miles NNW. of Wellington Pt., 5B, dredged 4 fms, sandy mud. 12.11.1968,
Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2962. Male (6:5 mm), | mile NE. of Hanlon Light, 5D, dredged 34 fms,
muddy sand, 12.11.1968, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2960. Seven males, four females (6-5-8 mm), | mile,
ENE. of Cleveland Light, 6C, dredged 64 fms, gritty sand, 12.11.1968, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2961.
Ten males, four females (11-15 mm), 2+ miles SW. of Garden I., 7C, 14 fms, sandy mud, 13.x.1967
Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2904. Male (12°5), two females (12, 12:5 mm), 4 mile SE. of Snipe I., 7C, 3 fms,
muddy sand, 13.x.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2905.
Additional records of specimens which were identified but not retained by the collecting party:
Six, 2 miles ESE. of Beachmere, 1A, 2 fms, shelly mud, 6.vi.1967, W.S. Four, 4 mile ENE. of Toorbul
Pt. red buoy, 1B, 34 fms, muddy sand, 13.vi.1967, R. Maloney. One, 14 miles N. of North Reef
beacon, 2A, 3} fms, mud with shell, 6.vi.1967, W.S. Twelve, 3 mile NNE. of Cribb I., 4A, 2 fms, mud
with shell, 15.v.1967, W.S. Six, ? mile NNE. of Serpentine Ck., 4A, 2 fms, mud with shell, 15.v.1967,
W:S.
Two males, female (5-6-16-3 mm), between Peel I. and Cleveland, old collection, Aust. Mus.
P11442.
The specimens agree well with Tesch’s detailed description, except that he describes
the ischium and merus of the third maxillipeds as having a faint longitudinal groove
Jaterally—in our specimens the groove is very deep. In addition, the chelae in the
largest males are stout and the palms are widest distally. The specimens examined by
Tesch and by Rathbun were smaller than the largest in the present series. The abdomen
in adult females is very broad and subovate as illustrated by Adams and White.
DISTRIBUTION: Gulf of Siam (Rathbun, 1910); “* eastern seas ’”’ (Adams and White,
1848); east coasts of Java and Sumbawa (Tesch, 1918); Rameswaram, India (Henderson,
1893); Philippine Islands (White, 1846; Milne Edwards, 1853); Hong Kong (Stimpson,
1858); Tandjong Priok, Java (Sluiter, 1881).
Genus Pinnotheres Latreille
Pinnotheres spinidactylus Gordon
(Figs. 7, 8.)
Pinnotheres spinidactylus Gordon, 1936, pp. 169-71, figs. la, 2a-e (not 3-52 mm male, not figs.
lb, c.)
[?] Pinnotheres modiolicola Birger, 1895, p. 370, pl. 9, fig. 9, pl. 10, fig. 9. Tesch, 1918, p. 253
(in key).
MORETON BAY MATERIAL: Female (6 mm) from Modiolus sp., 4 mile W. of ‘‘ House ”’ on
Macleay I., 7D, 34 fms, muddy sand with shell, 13.x.1967, Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W2910. Male (3-1 mm),
female (7-2 mm) from Modiolus sp., 4 mile NW. of Pat’s Pt., 6D, dredged 5 fms, gritty mud, 13.x.1967,
Z.D.U.Q., Qd Mus. W3038, W3037 respectively.
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY 157
DESCRIPTION OF FEMALE
CARAPACE: Approximately 1-15-1-2 times as broad as long, smooth and convex;
front considerably advanced beyond anterior border, obscurely bilobed; shoulders
distinct but rounded: posterior border straight or slightly concave; eyes visible in dorsal
aspect, subcircular and with small subterminal triangular or subcircular pigmented
area in frontal view.
EXTERNAL MAXILLIPEDS: Dacytl arising one third to half way along propodus,
reaching just short of blunt apex of propodus.
CHELIPED: Almost as long as third walking leg and much more massive. Merus,
measured along outer margin c. twice as long as wide; carpus abruptly bent inwards
and wider than proximal end of palm; dactyl as long as maximum height of palm, 0-75
dorsal length of palm; palm 1-5 times length of dactyl.
TABLE 1
RELATIVE LENGTHS OF LEG SEGMENTS OF FEMALE P. spinidactylus
—_——_ oe ee ee nad. o_o
| Left legs | Right legs
—— | Specimen — _— —_ | = Se
| 2 3 4 | 2 3 4
Se ee, ee | rea a oa
Relative lengths |= W2910 — — — 1-00 1-09 1-47
of dactyls W3037 «11:00 | s«1-41 1-81 1-00 | 1:15 | 1-84
Propodus 1. | |
ae | W3037 1-93 1-55 1-00 1-84 1-74 1-00
dactyl 1.
WALKING LeGs: First two subequal, third longest, fourth shortest; right third
leg shorter than left; third left dactyl c. $ longer than second; fourth dactyl equal to
propodus in length. Spinulation of inner margin of dactyls variable and asymmetric * ;
first dactyl without spinules; second dactyl with 6-4 spinules on both sides of W3037,
10 on right side and left dactyl missing on W2910; third dactyl with 7-10 spinules on
right side of both specimens, no spines on left side of W3037, left dactyl missing on
W2910; fourth dactyl with 5-8 long subterminal spines and a series of c. 20 spinules
on both sides of W2910, 2 spinules on right side and none on left side of W3037.
* These spines are minute and require critical microscopy for their detection on the entire
specimen; immersion in glycerine and substage illumination are helpful, but correct orientation of the
dactyl to view the spines in profile is still necessary.
158 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
Fic. 7: Pinnotheres spinidactylus, female. A-Q, Qd Mus. W3037. A-—D, dactyli of first to fourth
left ambulatory legs respectively, A in anterior view, B—D in dorsal view; E-F, dactyl and
propodus of first and second left legs respectively; G—H, third and fourth left legs respectively ;
I-J, dactyl and propodus of first and second right legs respectively; K-—L, third and fourth
right legs respectively; M, N, dactyl of fourth right leg; O, carapace; P, chela: Q, third
maxilliped.
R, carapace of Qd Mus. W2910, with front enlarged.
Scale lines 1 mm and 0-5 mm (broken line).
GONEPLACIDAE AND PINNOTHERIDAE OF MORETON BAY ho?
DESCRIPTION OF MALE
CARAPACE: Little broader than long (1:05 times); front considerably produced
beyond anterior border, bilobate; shoulders distinct but rounded, separated from orbit
by c. half frontal width; posterior border straight; eyes visible in dorsal view, orbits
small.
EXTERNAL MAXILLIPEDS: Similar to those of female.
CHELIPEDS: Propodus height half total length, slightly greater than length of
dactyl; tip of dactyl markedly hooked.
WALKING LeGs: Second and third legs with dense fringes of long setae on ventral
border of propodus and running from upper surface of carpus to, and along dorsal
border of propodus; dactyls subequal; first to fourth propodi in ratio 1:1-15:1-25:0-85.
MALE ABDOMEN: Much broader than in other species of this genus (see fig. 8B).
The male pleopods are undeveloped and this broadened abdomen is probably due to
immaturity.
MALE PLEOPODS: Immature, two pairs of biramous appendages.
Fic. 8: Pinnotheres spinidactylus, male, Qd Mus. W3038. a, with the fourth pair of eyes in a,a, and v
is strongly 2-annulate above but the furrow a,a./ag extends only to the level of the
submarginal sensillae so that a,a, forms the lateral portion of the margin of the sucker
but medial to this v is uniannulate and forms the ventral margin of the sucker. Somite
vi is 3-annulate dorsally a, 4s, the fifth pair of eyes being in a,; a,/a, is weak,
may not show in the median field but only at the margins, and is lacking below where
vi is 2-annulate and a,a,>a3. Somite vii is fully 3-annulate with a,a,.>>b;—b,. The lesser sensillae in vili a, are
slightly posterior in the annulus. The first pair of nephridiopores are posterior in vill a;
and just medial to the line of the ventral intermediate somital sensillae. Somite 1x is
5-annulate with b,;= b.b;= b, which is the same also in x to xiii but behind this
the annuli are more or less subequal with a, if anything little longer than the other
annuli back to and including xx. In xxi b,=b,.b;=bg as also in xxii, and xxiil
which is the last 5-annulate somite. Accordingly there are 15 5-annulate somites. In xxiv,
b,=b.=a,ag>a, and xxv a, is the last annulus which is complete on the venter.
Somite xxvi is 2-annulate, a,;a,>a, and with the somital sensillae posterior in a,ay.
Somite xxvii is uniannulate and forms the dorsal and lateral margins of the anus. The
dorsum of the posterior sucker variously shows indications of four to five rows of
somital sensillae.
The genital pores are at xi b;/b, and xiib;/b,. There are no indications of copu-
latory glands or other similar accessory reproductive structures in this vicinity and the
annulation is undisturbed. The nephropores are 17 pairs as usual, small, in some obscure
but in most mounted on low-mounded cutaneous papillae.
ALIMENTARY CANAL: (Figs. |[D-F, 2G.) The three jaws are small. about 0-75 mm
long, a little taller (0-4 mm) than wide (0-35 mm), low in profile and armed along the entire
edge with a single row of about 48 acutely conical sharp spaced teeth, the tallest (0-04 mm)
at the medial end and diminishing in height very gradually so that the fortieth tooth
is about 0-028 mm high and only the last one or two teeth are granular. Along the sides
of the jaw there are many openings of salivary ducts which might be termed salivary
papillae but in general they are so low as to hardly disturb the profile of the jaw and are
seen as small rounded barely elevated white areas not arranged in any obvious pattern.
The acini of the salivary glands extend through vii to x ay. They are relatively large,
semitranslucent, whitish, not crowded but showing more as distinct individual bodies
in loose, not compacted, aggregations. The individual ducts are minute, almost trans-
THE REDISCOVERY OF HIRUDO ELEGANS 199
parent, and those on the dorsal aspect of the pharynx and first crop compartment
aggregate into main right and left trunks separated by a row of extrinsic muscles of the
pharynx, almost concealing the body of the pharynx but quite readily separated and raised
from it, and the two trunks enter the median dorsal jaw at vii a,. The individual ducts
appear to follow a tortuous course in these trunks.
The pharynx commences at the mouth proper at the base of the jaws at vii/viil, is
thin-walled so that the intrinsic muscle layers are not individually obvious, and internally
it shows only six very low narrow longitudinal folds. The radial extrinsic muscles are
mostly comparatively short, spaced, and are located in vii to 1x.
The pharynx terminates at vili/ix. The crop commences in ix with a complete
compartment of the full length of this somite, carrying a single pair of short simple
caeca which originate half-way along the compartment, the length at their origin is about
one third of the length of the compartment and they penetrate the array of dorsoventral
muscles at the side of the compartment so that this compartment with its caeca is fully
equivalent morphologically to the compartments in x and xi, these also having only a
single pair of simple caeca each. In xii to xix, the compartments of the crop increase
progressively in length and the caeca at the mid-level of each compartment perforate
the dorsoventral muscles and then extend posteriorly to the level of b./a, in the following
somite excepting those of xix which extend back to xxv/xxvi. These large caeca are
simple. In addition to the large caeca, the compartments in x11 to xix also carry a pair
of small anterior simple caeca which are confined within the paramedian longitudinal
array of dorsoventral muscles but are laterally plicated and could be expected to expand
in the partly fed leech to show as the small anterior simple lobed caeca known in several
genera. The compartment in xix narrows behind the origin of the main pair of caeca to
form a narrow tube the wall of which is of the same nature as that of the crop. This
tube joins the ventral face of the intestine shortly beyond its anterior end at xix/xx so
that a short slightly bilobed intestinal caecum, wider than the intestine, is formed.
The intestine is thin-walled. tapering, tubular, only slightly constricted at the
intersomital levels, and reduced to a narrow tube at xxii/xxiil which is loosely folded in
Xxlil and enters the rectum in xxiv so as to form a short rectal caecum narrower in
diameter than the main portion of the rectum which terminates at the anus.
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM: (Fig. 2H.) The female reproductive system is situated
between xii a, and xili ag. The ovaries are slightly flattened small white bodies pear-
shaped in profile just anterior to xii/xili, ventral to the crop, medial to the paramedian
longitudinal row of dorsoventral muscles, and resting near the medial face of the
posterior third of the epididymis. The oviducts are short, little longer than the ovary,
with a few initial open coils and then straight, the left passing ventral to the nerve-cord
immediately behind ganglion xii to enter the common oviduct independently from the
right oviduct. The common oviduct does not show a distinct oviducal atrium, but in
these specimens it 1s thin-walled and enlarged nearly to the diameter of the penis sheath
and an atrium might be anticipated otherwise. It shows indications of a slightly tortuous
path and is surrounded for its full length by a transparent gelatinous structureless
200 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
material which would seem to be an extensive albumin gland. The common oviduct
extends from the floor of the body cavity along the anterior face of the vagina which it
enters shortly before the end so forming a small but distinct vaginal caecum. Accordingly
the common oviduct is almost of the length of the vagina. The vagina stands sub-erect
lateral to the crop between the major caeca of xii and xiii, and is swollen simple fusiform
below the entry of the oviduct, narrowing briefly before entering the body-wall at xii
b,;/b, giving the appearance of a very short vaginal duct. The caecum, vagina, and the
‘duct’ are all of the one nature, opalescent, covered with a compact layer of fine circular
fibres and accordingly to describe this organ as divided into distinct vagina and duct
may be morphologically incorrect.
Fic. 2: Goddardobdella elegans. G, Dissection from the dorsal aspect showing pharynx and crop
compartments with caeca (ca.) in ix to xi, dorsoventral muscles (d.v.m.); H, Dissection of
reproductive system from the dorsal aspect with the vagina, epididymis and bulb turned to
show the medial aspect, c.od. common oviduct, ej.b. ejaculatory bulb, epi. epididymis, ov.
ovary, pe.s. penis sheath, pr.gl. prostate glands, t. testis, va. vagina, va.c. vaginal caecum,
v.d. vas deferens. Scales in mm.
THE REDISCOVERY OF HIRUDO ELEGANS 201
The male reproductive system is mature in these specimens, the testes, vasa
efferentia, vasa deferentia and epididymi are swollen, enlarged and opaque white. There
are 10 pairs of testes which are ventral to the crop and intestine and medial to the
paramedian longitudinal row of dorsoventral muscles on either side of the alimentary
canal. The vasa efferentia are short, the length less than the diameter of the testis,
and pass laterally through the dorsoventral muscles of the paramedian longitudinal
row to join the vas deferens on each side. The anterior pair of testes is at xili/xiv, the
posterior pair at xxi1/xxiiil. The vas deferens is slightly wider in diameter than the penis
sheath and tortuous in its path, extending anteriorly to about xii b;/b, which is
apparently the end of the glandular region for at this level it diminishes to a narrow tube
which turns posteriorly to about xii b, to enter the posterior end of the compactly
coiled tapering mass of the large epididymis which is situated for the greater part in
xiii by to xi/xil, lateral to the paramedian longitudinal row of dorsoventral muscles and
ventrolateral to the crop. The terminal anterior portion of the epididymis is a short
enlarged tube in a few compact coils which turns posteriorly to enter from below the
posterior vertical limb of the small, opalescent, muscular ejaculatory bulb extending from
xii by to Xi ay and so is anterior to the epididymis excepting for the terminal portion
which alone is ventral to the bulb. The ejaculatory bulb is wider but not greatly wider
than the penis sheath. It passes anteriorly into a vertical descending tapering limb
which narrows into the delicate, short, muscular ejaculatory duct which passes through a
cleft in the prostate gland to enter the male atrium independently from its fellow. The
right duct passes ventral to the nerve cord. The prostate glands form a bulbous mass
tapering onto the penis sheath and both are ventral to the crop and medial to the rows of
dorsoventral longitudinal muscles on each side of the crop. The penis sheath is muscular,
opalescent, extending from xi a, to xii b, before curving back to enter the body-wall at
x1 b;/b,. A minute filamentous penis is extruded in one specimen. It is 0-06 mm in
diameter and 0-8 mm long.
DISCUSSION
The above description is based on the specimens from Mount Lizard, Rockhampton,
being the original area for Hirudo elegans. This then enabled me to recognise with
confidence that leeches taken from Alumy Creek, Grafton, N.S.W. are of the same
species.
The agreement in detail between the Grafton and Mount Lizard specimens is
excellent. The colour patterns are the same saving that in two of the Grafton specimens
the median light stripe is a darker brownish grey for the width of the median field, with
the paramedian sensillae included in a light yellowish brown stripe forming a narrow
light margin to the median area, and the more obvious in contrast to the black line
lateral to them. In this phase, the pattern appears to be one of three pairs of light stripes,
the paramedian the narrowest, lateral to it a slightly wider stripe, and the outer stripe
obviously wider than the other two.
202 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
After several weeks in a glass jar in moderate light, a dark phase of colouration
developed. The median stripe is blackish brown and of the width of the median field.
It is bordered by a narrow stripe which is light green with brown maculations. The
lateral paired stripes are a dark blackish brown with yellowish brown maculations.
The black marginal lines are replaced by dark brown, and in the pregenital region and
from xx posteriorly, the lateral stripes are solid brown. The intervening bands are all
brightly darkish green with black and dark brown maculations. The margin is light green
and does not continue onto the venter which is slightly reddish brown.
In contraction, the annuli of the posterior somites become sharply keeled and there
is some suggestion of many small papillae, but there is nothing regular or persistent.
The leeches from Alumy Creek, Grafton, were taken by High School Students on
Sept. 21, 1967, from a mud bottom in standing water some six inches deep and also in
submerged vegetation. They reported them as extremely abundant, in the order of 8 to
a square yard. This suggests a possible mass-movement or migration such as I have
reported for Canadian hirudinids (Richardson, 1942). I visited the location the
following day but there were no leeches in the open at this point, nor could I see them
elsewhere on the stream, which is in agreement with the sudden disappearance of the
leeches in the instances seen in Canada. The only specimens I found were concealed
in the axils of bull-rush, and these were few, much less common than an erpobdellid
of similar size, a glossiphonid, and a Placobdella.
G. elegans is an essentially aquatic leech, a graceful rapid swimmer, swimming
with the body in extension, mostly horizontal but equally well with the body on its side.
Removed from water, they rapidly lose the ability to hold with the suckers on a dry
surface and become helpless. They seem incapable of biting on the dry skin. Held
in a jar, they frequently leave the water for long periods but remain little more than an
inch above the surface of the water and occasionally lower the anterior half of the body
into the water. This does not szem to be related to any essential requirement since
while one may do so, others rest quietly on the bottom of the jar.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I am most grateful to the members of the Rockhampton Field Naturalists Club for
their efforts in supplying me with leeches from their area; to Dr. R. E. Barwick,
Australian National University, Dr. J. C. Yaldwyn, Australian Museum, and Professor
M. C. Meyer, Orono Me., for assisting me to obtain certain literature; to Mr. P. Strong
and students of the Grafton High School for leeches from Alumy Creek, Grafton; and
the Science and Industry Endowment Fund for the loan of microscopic and other
equipment.
THE REDISCOVERY OF HIRUDO ELEGANS 203
LITERATURE CITED
Benuam, W. B., 1904. On a new species of leech (Hirudo antipodum) recently discovered in New
Zealand. Trans. N.Z. Inst, 36 (21): 185-192.
1907. Two new species of leech in New Zealand. Trans. N.Z. Inst. 39 (16): 181-193.
Gopparb, E. J., 1909. Contributions to our knowledge of Australian Hirudinea. Pt. iil. Proc. Linn.
Soc. N.S.W. 34 (3): 467-486.
Grube, Ed., 1867. Jahr. Ber. Schles. Gesellsch. f. Vaterl. Cultur. 44: 61.
1871. Beschreibungen einiger Egel-Arten. Arch. Naturgesch. 37: 87-121.
JOHANSSON, L., 1911. Hirudinea. Die Fauna Sudwest—Australiens. Michaelson & Hartmeyer. Bd. 111
(12): 409-431.
RICHARDSON, L. R., 1942. Observations on the migratory behaviour of leeches. Can. Field Nat.
46 (5): 67-70.
1968. An annotated list of Australian leeches. Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W, 92 (3): 227-245.
1969. A contribution to the systematics of the hirudinid leeches with descriptions of new families,
new genera and species. Acta Zool. Acad. Sci. H..ng. (in press).
Soos, A., 1968. A new leech genus: Richardsonianus gen. nov. (Hirudinoidea: Hirudinidae). Acta
Zool. Acad. Sci. Hung. 14 (3-4): 455-459.
VAILLANT, L., 1890. Histoire naturelle des annelees marin et d’eau douce. Vol. 3, part 2, Hirudiniens,
pp. 477-542. (Roret: Paris).
A NEW SUBSPECIES OF THE WESTERN GRASS-WREN, 4AM YTORNIS
TEXTILIS (DUMONT) IN NORTH-WESTERN QUEENSLAND
H. T. CoNDON
South Australian Museum
Until lately, real evidence of the occurrence of the desert genus Amyrornis Stejneger
in Queensland has been lacking, although Keast (1958) referred to a possible record
of an unidentified species in the far south-west, near Bulloo Lake. Further reports of
a grass-wren in the Cloncurry-Mount Isa district have given rise to speculation concerning
the identity of all these birds.
The genus is characterised by the occurrence of numerous small, isolated populations,
which have undergone morphological differentiation partly as a result of such isolation.
In some instances, these relict populations, or “isolates” (Keast, 1958, p. 34) have attained
species rank; in others, the differences are subspecific. It could be expected, therefore,
that grass-wrens in Queensland would differ from those found elsewhere and, following
the taking of museum specimens, such has proved to be the case. The Bulloo birds
belong to a new species of the “‘ striatus type’ (Favaloro and McEvey, 1968) whilst those
obtained near Mt. Isa can be assigned to an undescribed race of Amytornis textilis
(Dumont), the so-called Western Grass-Wren of the Official Checklist (1926). The
two specimens from the Mount Isa area, obtained by Mr. R. K. Carruthers, had been
tentatively determined by Mr. D. P. Vernon of the Queensland Museum as Amytornis
textilis. Subsequently, they were submitted to the writer for further examination.
Amytornis textilis ballarae subsp. nov.
MATERIAL EXAMINED
Ho.otype: Adult female, Qd Mus. 010692. Collected July 17, 1966, R. K. Carruthers. Wing,
60 mm; tail, 75; culmen (exposed) 10-4; culmen (total) 14; tarsus, 23; total length, 147; wing span,
180. Gonads not enlarged (4 x 2-5 mm). Iris, * dark brown’; bill, upper and lower, * horn brown ”’;
base of lower mandible, “ dark grey’’; legs and feet, ‘ dark brown”’.
PARATYPE: Adult female, Qd Mus. O11011. Collected October 27, 1966, R. K. Carruthers. Wing,
60 mm; culmen (exposed) 10-4; tarsus, 23; tail worn; total length, 159; wing span, 171; weight,
19 gm. In partial moult (tail), gonads not enlarged.
Type LocALIty: Six miles south of Mary Kathleen, near Ballara copper mine, east-southeast of
Mount Isa, north-western Queensland.
DIAGNosIS: Sides of body and flanks deep reddish brown (“Liver Brown” of
Ridgway, 1912, plate XIV); edgings of buffy-white feathers of throat and upper breast
deep reddish brown; general colour of back and rump about the same as that of flanks
but becoming somewhat paler in worn plumage.
206 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
DISTRIBUTION: So far as known, restricted to the Mount Isa area, specimens having
been taken at the type locality and at Sybella Creek.
REMARKS: 4.1. ballarae isa small, short-tailed rufous form which resembles members
of related populations in the Macdonnell Ranges (purnelli), Everard Ranges (everardi)
and near Tennant Creek. It differs in being much deeper rufous brown below: the
ventral coloration of the two last-named is towards cinnamon (““Wood Brown” of
Ridgway, 1912, pl. 50).
The single specimen from near Tennant Creek, a male collected on May 22, 1962
is rather pale but for the present may be referred to purne/li. As mentioned by Storr
(1967), reports of “‘purnelli’”” from Barrow Creek and Coniston, Northern Territory
require confirmation. If one followed the nomenclature of the current Official Check-
list, all these birds would comprise the central Australian “‘species’’ Amytornis purnelli,
Dusky Grass-Wren. However, Keast (1958) has shown that the purne//i group of popu-
lations is merely a geographical representative of the Western Grass-Wren, Amytornis
textilis, whose known range extends from Eyre Peninsula, South Australia (subspecies
myall) through the interior of Western Australia to coastal regions near Point Cloates
in the north (subspecies fexti/is) and inland in the southwest (subspecies macrourus).
In all subspecies females are more rufous on the flanks than males. General body
coloration shows little rufous in the nominate form and in macrourus Gould, which are
dull brown above and below. In the last-named, the tail is exceedingly long (91-100 mm,
according to Keast), the head is rather dark and the abdomen not pale but brownish
like the breast. The race named myal/ by Mathews is distinguished by its shorter tail
(83 mm), whitish throat and abdomen, and slightly more rufous dorsal coloration than
in textilis and macrourus.
Keast has drawn attention to the slightly greater dimensions of the bill and tail in
everardi, viz. 10-7 and 80 mm.
The discovery of the Western Grass-Wren in north-western Queensland has increased
our knowledge and understanding of the former distribution of the species, which must
have been fragmented by the ecological changes arising from the climatic fluctuations
during and since the Pleistecene. North-south shifts of the desert belt would have
resulted in the disappearance of suitable habitats over a wide area and such changes,
catastrophic to sedentary forms, would account for the present “‘spotty”’ distribution.
LITERATURE CITED
FAVALORO, N. J. and A. R. McEvey, 1968. A new species of Australian Grass-Wren. Mem. Nat.
Mus, Vict. 28: 1-9, pls. 1-4.
Keast, A., 1958. Speciation in the genus Amyrornis Stejneger (Passeres: Muscicapidae, Malurinae)
in Australia. Aust. Zool. 6: 33-52.
RipGway, R., 1912. ‘“* Color Standards and Color Nomenclature.’’ (Washington, D.C.).
RoyaAL AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS UNION (CHECKLIST COMMITTEE), 1926. ‘‘ Official Checklist of
the Birds of Australia (second edition).*” (Government Printer: Melbourne).
Srorr, G. M., 1967. List of Northern Territory Birds. Spec. Publ. W. Aust. Mus., No. 4, pp. 1-90.
207
ON THE ALLEGED QUEENSLAND MOA, DINORNIS
QUEENSLANDIAE DE VIS
R. J. SCARLETT
Canterbury Museum, Christchurch, New Zealand
ABSTRACT
Examination of the holotype of Dinornis queenslandiae De Vis, a part
left femur, has shown that it is from a Pachyornis elephantopus (Owen) derived
from a Moa-hunter Maori midden from the South Island of New Zealand
and it must therefore be expunged from the list of Australian fossil birds.
In 1884 C. W. De Vis, then Director of the Queensland Museum, described the
holotype femur as Dinornis queenslandiae. In his first paper he stated that it “‘was recog-
nised in a collection of bones from King’s Creek, presented to the Queensland Museum
by Mr. J. Daniels, late of Pilton’’. Subsequently (De Vis, 1891) he stated more specific-
ally that it was “‘picked up in King’s Creek, on the Darling Downs, by Mr. Daniels
and by him presented with other contemporaneous fossils to the Queensland Museum’’.
I shall show later that the bone did not belong with the other King’s Creek material.
It is certain that De Vis did not at any time question its derivation and in his original
description he realised its close resemblance to “‘ Dinornis elephantopus” and to “‘ Dinornis
crassus” (= Euryapteryx gravis of modern classification). In De Vis’ day there was great
confusion between what today are known as Euryapteryx, Emeus, and Pachyornis as
few, if any, skeletons were available for comparison and classification was done mainly
on leg bones). It is all the more to his credit that with very little comparative material,
if the Moa collection in the Queensland Museum today is any guide, he realised the
affinities of the fragmentary bone which he was examining. Lydekker (1891) and Jack
and Etheridge (1892) accepted the bone as a Queensland Moa without question. In 1893
F. W. Hutton, working from a rather poor cast (still in the Canterbury Museum),
compared it with Euryapteryx gravis and “Euryapteryx ponderosus” (= Pachyornis
elephantopus) and concluded that it was not a Moa and placed it among the Casuariidae,
stating “it probably represents the ancestors of the Emus and Cassowaries’’.
There the matter rested until 1949 when Dr. W. R. B. Oliver, who had had the
holotype bone for examination rightly recognised it as belonging to the genus Pachyornis
but, accepting the Queensland derivation, published it as Pachyornis queenslandiae.
In 1963 Alden H. Miller, working from the five excellent photographs published by
Oliver, but accepting Hutton’s arguments, called it Dromiceius queenslandiae.
208 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
From examination of the cast and from Oliver’s photographs, I had already had
my suspicions about the bone in question and on 10 April 1967, through the courtesy
of Mr. J. T. Woods, Director of the Queensland Museum, and Mr. A. Bartholomai,
Research Curator (Geology), was able to examine it at the Queensland Museum and
subsequently at Canterbury Museum. Messrs. Woods and Bartholomai were already
suspicious of the bone because of its great difference in colour and general appearance
from the other King’s Creek material—a difference which was strikingly apparent when
I also looked at bones from King’s Creek. With many years of experience of handling
thousands of Moa bones from caves, swamps, sandhills and Moa hunter middens, |
recognised the holotype as a bone from a South Island, New Zealand, midden and that
it was almost certainly Pachyornis as Oliver had stated.
It is significent that both De Vis and Oliver, who had handled the actual bone, as
well as myself, recognised its resemblance to Pachyornis elephantopus.
Pachyornis elephantopus (Owen, 1856)
Dinornis elephantopus Owen, 1856, p. 54.
Dinornis queenslandiae De Vis, 1884, pp. 23-8, pls. 3 and 4. Lydekker, 1891, p. 222. Etheridge,
1892, p. 662.
Pachyornis elephantopus (Owen): Archey, 1941, pp. 36-9.
Pachyornis (Pachyornis) elephantopus (Owen): Oliver, 1949, pp. 74-80, figs. 53-61.
Pachyornis queenslandiae (De Vis): Oliver, 1949, pp. 80--3, 88, fig. 61 A—E.
Dromiceius queenslandiae (De Vis): Miller, 1963, p. 417.
The holotype of Dinornis queenslandiae is the partial proximal end of a left femur.
It is broken transversely across the upper shaft 9-7 cm from what remains of the head,
or upper condyle. Much of the great trochanter (trochanter major) and the proximal
portion of the head, are missing. De Vis considered ‘‘ These have been lost by abrasion
while projecting above the surface of the creek bed”. However, this bone has been
removed much more recently than when the shaft was broken and has the appearance
of having been cut by a sharp instrument, probably a ploughshare, which has exposed
the cancellous tissue (which, incidentally, agrees perfectly with that exposed in other
moa bones broken in similar places).
De Vis used Dinornis in the sense of Owen who placed all Moas in the one genus.
De Vis wrote “this bone is in much the same peculiar state of mineralization as the
great majority of the Darling Downs fossils ’’, a strange statement, as it is on this point
that the bone differs very strongly from the Darling Downs bones whereas in this
particular the holotype agrees strongly with many bones from Moa-hunter middens.
His excellent original description reads, in part: “* The shaft at its place of fracture
is rather more rounded than in D. crassus... Its section is a full, irregular oval, as in
D. elephantopus, very dissimilar to the pure oval of Dromornis, but somewhat less
unlike that of the emu’s femur, in which the inner side is rather more convex than the
outer. The base of the head presents a strong annular constriction . . . which, as in
THE ALLEGED QUEENSLAND MOA 209
Dinornis, renders the head quite distinct from the neck . . . and contrasts it with the
subsessile heads of Dromaeus and Dromornis ... In Dinornis crassus there is a sub-
central pit nearer to the hinder part of the periphery of the head and excavated to a
moderate depth. In the fossil... it is in a similar position, but deeply sunken, and its
hinder edge is raised into a rough ridge. In neither D. crassus nor in the fossil is there a
concave slope behind the ligament pit. The neck ... of our subject is distinctly longer
and narrower than in D. crassus, and consequently more divergent in both respects
from that of Dromaeus. The neck at its junction with the epitrochanterian surface . . . is
far more deeply hollowed than in the emu, and therefore conspicuously unlike that of
Dromornis, in which the upper outline is nearly horizontal. The saddle so formed is
in fact more deeply seated than in D. crassus. The outer surface of the trochanter
is nearly flat, devoid of the sub-marginal convexity shown in Dromaeus, and the muscular
_ attachments . . . are in two shallow depressions raised above the level of the bone by
two tubercular outgrowths, as in Dinornis, instead of into two excavations from the
surface, separated by a bridge, as occurs in the emu. The mode of origin of the great
trochanter of the fossil strongly resembles that of the moa—it rises abruptly from the
shaft, and forms immediately a prominence, which curves over towards the inner aspect
of the bone, and overlooks the markedly concave interior surface between it and the
head”’.
Hutton (1893) disagreed strongly with De Vis’ attribution of the bone to the Moa
group, and published figures, outline drawings, viewed end on from the top of the
holotype bone and ‘‘Euryapteryx ponderosus’’ (= Pachyornis elephantopus) to show
the differences which he thought existed. Pachyornis is a genus which varies greatly in
size and shape from one skeleton to another, and Hutton must have used an abnormally
shaped femur for comparison, for, as I shall show later, the holotype bone agrees very
well with Pachyornis and Euryapteryx in this particular, as Oliver also realised.
For comparison I have used four left femora of Pachyornis elephantopus and four of
Euryapteryx gravis (the latter equating with ‘‘Dinornis crassus’’ in the sense in which
De Vis used this name) all from more or less complete skeletons from Pyramid Valley
swamp, North Canterbury, New Zealand, so that there can be no doubt as to their
correct attribution to genera and species, as well as other femora from cave, swamp and
midden deposits. As stated above Pachyornis elephantopus is a variable species and so
is Euryapteryx gravis. Although the two genera are not closely related the leg bones,
by convergent evolution, often resemble each other, and it requires careful study, when
dealing with an odd bone or fragment thereof, to decide to which of the two genera
it belongs. Oliver (1949) discussing the holotype states: ‘‘The depression on the head
for the round ligament is deep and angular with several large perforations. In moas
this depression is shallow on the surface level’’. While this statement is in general true,
there are exceptions. In the femur of Pachyornis elephantopus AV8382 from Pyramid
Valley, the depression is almost as deep as in “‘ Dinornis queenslandiae”’ and is surrounded
by a “lip” of bone outgrowth. This skeleton is of a very mature bird. A left femur,
from Kapua Swamp, Waimate, AV9170, also of a very mature Pachyornis, again has
this depression almost as deep as in the bone under consideration. It is probably a
210 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
sign of age. It certainly varies greatly in Pachyornis but much less so in Euryapteryx.
The neck of the holotype is well defined below by an irregular transverse groove. This
is characteristic of Pachyornis. In Euryapteryx, usually, this groove is broader and not
quite so clearly defined. The rear portion of the trochanter of the holotype projects
as in all the genera of Moa. Ironically, this is a feature which Hutton considered
distinguished ‘“‘queenslandiae”’ from the Moa. The trochanter is markedly produced
forward. Although much of the cnemial crest thus produced is absent, being removed
when the proximal portion of the trochanter was sheared off, sufficient—3-9 cm—
remains to form an important diagnostic feature in distinguishing the bone as Pachyornis
rather than Euryapteryx. It is one of the few features remaining on the bone which
can be used for this purpose. In Dromiceius and Casuarius the cnemial crest, in profile,
is a smooth curve. In all the genera of Moa it is irregular in outline and particularly
so in Pachyornis and Euryapteryx. In both genera the crest begins as a “‘bulge”’ near
the shaft, dips inward, then curves outward around the proximal end of the trochanter.
It is the shape of the remaining lower portion of the crest which places the holotype
definitely as Pachyornis rather than Euryapteryx, more clearly than any other feature
remaining on the bone. There is always a little intra-specific variation, but this is not
nearly as marked as the inter-specific differences in this particular. In Euryapteryx the
cnemial crest begins with a much more gradual slope from the shaft to form the “‘bulge”’
than in Pachyornis, where the cnemial crest begins abruptly. In the holotype the “bulge”’
would originally have been even more pronounced than it is now as abrasion has
slightly reduced the edge. This feature is shown well in Oliver’s fig. 61C. Viewed from
the front of the bone (the dorsal aspect) it begins slightly below the level of the roughened
surface which forms the attachment for the iliacus internus muscle. (This muscular
attachment, or scar, varies in position in both the genera under consideration. In some
femora it is nearly level with, in others well above, the beginning of the cnemial crest
and it also varies considerably in size, shape and position in relation to the neck; it
cannot be used as a diagnostic feature.) The dorsal pretrochanteric surface is concave,
agreeing well with both Pachyornis and Euryapteryx. A ridge running from close to
the trochanter diagonally from right to left towards the shaft (cf. Oliver’s fig. 61B) can
be paralleled in some, but not all, Pachyornis femora. This again is a variable feature
and along with the pronounced blood vessel markings and the roughened surface of
the pretrochanteric region, fairly prominent in the holotype, is probably a sign of age.
They occur in varying degress on some, but not all, of the femora used for comparison.
(Blood vessel markings on tibio-tarsi, although varying a little intra-specifically, form
consistently differing patterns between the genera and are a good diagnostic feature.)
On the ventral and outer faces the muscle scars and other markings are variable in
both shape and position in Pachyornis and Euryapteryx. Those on the holotype fit
well into the Pachyornis pattern. Oliver considered the muscular impressions on the
holotype bone more prominent than in Pachyornis elephantopus but they can be
paralleled in very mature examples of the latter. Measured transversely across the
pretrochanteric face, at the lowest point where it is possible to get a complete
measurement, the shaft measures 5-75 cm and from front to back at the same relative
position 4-5 cm. Measured in the same position, six Pachyornis elephantopus femora
THE ALLEGED QUEENSLAND MOA 211
were: 5-15/4-3 (=1-20); 5-3/5-0 (=1-06); 5-4/4-75 (=1-14); 5-55/4-8 (=1-16); 5-8/4-6
(=1-26); and 6-1/4-95 (=1-23) while five Euryapteryx gravis were: 4-9/4:1 (=1-20);:
5-4/3-9 (=1-38); 5-5/4-3 (=1-28); 5-5/4-6 (=1:20); and 5:55/4-7 (=1-18) respectively.
It is obvious that the lower range of Pachyornis cannot be separated from
Euryapteryx by measurement at this point. Most Pachyornis and Euryapteryx femora,
where sectioned specimens are available for measurement, have densely solid, thick
walls and the holotype is no exception. The lumen, or hollow centre, measures
1-1 x 0-9 cm, the walls varying from 1-3 to 2-2 cm. Very occasionally in both species
one finds a large lumen and comparatively thin walls, e.g. a lumen of 2-1 x 1-6 cm, walls
from 1-0 to 2-4 cm in Euryapteryx, but the holotype is in the usual range of thickness
and density of bone for both genera. There is not one feature on it which cannot be
paralleled in Pachyornis elephantopus when a sufficient range of the latter is examined
and while it in general appearance also closely resembles Euryapteryx gravis, the
differences in the groove defining the neck, and more particularly in the shape of the
cnemial crest, separate it from that species. My conclusion, therefore, is that ‘‘ Dinornis
queenslandiae”’ is a New Zealand Pachyornis elephantopus.
There remains the question of its midden derivation. When | first saw the bone
I was impressed by the shaft break as typical of that made by human agency when the
bone was “green’’. I have handled thousands of moa bones from caves, swamps and
sandhills, and have not found one instance where sub-fossil bone was broken in the
same way that fresh, green bone breaks. The difference is not easy to convey in words.
Figs. 61A, B, C and D in Oliver show the shaft break from four angles. Even though
the surface of the break on the holotype is now partly obscured by traces of plaster left
when casts were being made, it has all the appearance of a man-made break. Sub-fossil
Moa limb bones when broken accidentally or purposely usually, although not always,
fracture longitudinally. When they do break across the shaft the appearance differs
considerably from “green”? breaks. I have made many experiments breaking and
cutting Moa bone from various sub-fossil sources and whether it is comparatively light
bone from sandhills or “ivory” from swamps, the appearance is very different from
“sreen’? bone broken or cut. Mr. L. Lockerbie, of Otago Museum, independently
made similar experiments, with the same results. In my opinion the shaft break on the
holotype was made by man when the bone was green.
The reasons for concluding that the holotype came from the South Island and not
the North Island of New Zealand are as follows: Pachyornis elephantopus is very rare
in the North Island, where it is known from two localities only—Waipukurau (skeletons
were found here buried with other genera under an ash-shower) and a cave in the
Mahoenui area (a single tibio-tarsus was found in October 1967). In the North Island
P. elephantopus has not so far been discovered in human association. It is not parti-
cularly common in the Moa-hunter middens in the South Island, being known from
those at Papotowai, Pounawea, Hawkesburn, Tai Rua and Shag River (Southland
and Otago sites) and Redcliffs, Sumner, a few miles from Christchurch, Canterbury.
The Pachyornis found in North Island middens belong to the much smaller P. mappini
212 MEMOIRS OF THE QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
and P. septentrionalis. Euryapteryx gravis, very common in South Island middens, was
a very rare bird in the North Island, being confined to the East Coast, and there 1s only
one midden record, a single part femur from a midden in the Wellington area, where
it could possibly have been taken across Cook Strait from the South Island.
It is improbable that we shall ever know from which South Island midden the
holotype was derived. Very few were known when De Vis described it. As Miss Eleanor
Crosby has suggested (pers. comm.), Shag River is a distinct possibility. It may have
been ploughed up from an unrecorded site. This is all speculation, probably profitless.
The most that can be said with certainty is that the bone was derived from a South
Island Moa-hunter Maori midden.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I wish to thank Mr. Jack Woods and Mr. Alan Bartholomai for the opportunity
of examining the bone, and Dr. Roger Duff, Director of the Canterbury Museum, for
discussing various points with me.
LITERATURE CITED
ARCHEY, G., 1941. The Moa. Bull. Auckland Inst. 1: 1-145.
De Vis, C. W., 1884. The Moa (Dinornis) in Australia. Proc. Roy. Soc. Qd. 1: 23-8, pls. 3, 4.
1891. The Moa in Australia. N.Z.J/. Sci. 1 (3): 97-101.
ETHERIDGE, R., 1892. Jn Jack, R. L., and ETHERIDGE, R., “ The Geology and Palaeontology of
Queensland and New Guinea.” pp. 1-708, 68 pls. (J. C. Beal: Brisbane; Dulau & Co.:
London).
Hutton, F. W., 1893. On Dinornis (?) queenslandiae. Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W. 8: 7-10, 1 fig.
LypEKKeER, R., 1891. ‘* Catalogue of the Fossil Birds in the British Museum (Natural History).
pp. 1-398. (British Museum: London).
Miter, A. H., 1963. Fossil ratite birds of the Late Tertiary of South Australia. Rec. S. Aust. Mus.
14 (3): 413-420.
OLIVER, W. R. B., 1949. The Moas of New Zealand and Australia. Bull. Dom. Mus. N.Z. 15: 1-206.
Owen, R., 1856. On Dinornis (Part VII); containing a description of the bones of the leg and foot
of the Dinornis elephantopus Owen. Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. 24: 55-61.
THE ALLEGED QUEENSLAND MOA PLATE 15
Fic. 1: Right femur of Euryapteryx sp., AV27579, Moa-hunter midden, Old Neck , Stewart I., N.2Z.
Fic. 2: Right femur of Euryapteryx gravis (Owen), AV17651, Moa-hunter midden, Tairua, Otago, N.Z.
Fic. 3: Left femur of ‘“* Dinornis queenslandiae *’ Dz Vis, holotype, F1116.
Front face upwards in all cases.
CONTENTS
CAMPBELL, B. M.
The Genus Eucrate (Crustacea: Goneplacidae) in Eastern
Australia and the Indo-West Pacific rr :
GrirFFiIn, D. J. G. and CAMPBELL, B. M.
The Sub-littoral Goneplacidae and Pinnotheridae ae
Brachyura) of Moreton Bay
Davis, J. J.
Studies of Queensland Tetranychidae (Acarina: Prostigmata)
New Genus and Five New eens of ees Mites
from Native Plants
Davis, J. J.
Neotetranychus victoriae sp. nov. (Acarina: Tetranychidae),
a Spider Mite found on ‘me elas sampadiael F. Muell.
in Victoria
RICHARDSON, LAURENCE R.
The Rediscovery of Hirudo elegans Grube, 1867
ConpDon, H. T.
A New Subspecies of the Western Grass-wren, Amytornis
textilis (Dumont) in North-Western Queensland :
SCARLETT, R.
On the Alleged Queensland Moa, Dinornis queenslandiae De Vis
Page
117
14i
165
185
191
205
207