New archaeogastropod limpets from hydrothermal vents: new family Peltospiridae, new superfamily Peltospiracea

Abstract

Seven new species of limpets from hydrothermal vents are described in five new genera in the new family Peltospiridae (new superfamily Peltospiracea). Limpets in this family are known only from the hydrothermal vent community at two sites, near 21°N and 13°N, on the East Pacific Rise. New genera and species are: Peltospira , type species P. operculuta from both sites, and P. delicata from 13°N; Nodopelta , type species N. heminoda from both sites, and N. subnoda from 13°N; Rhynchopelta , type species R. concentrica from both sites; Echinopelta , type species E. fistulosa from 21°N; Hirtopelta , type specics H. hirta from 13°N. These limpets are associated with the Pompei worm Alvinella , except for Rhynchopelta, which is associated with the vestimentifcran worm Riftia .