Systematics and Distribution of Callianassa (Crustacea, Decapoda, Macrura) from Port Phillip Bay, Australia, with Descriptions of Two New Species

Abstract

Two new species of Callianassa are described from Port Phillip Bay subtidal sediments. Their systematic position and their status within the genus are briefly discussed. The distribution of the four species known from Port Phillip Bay correlates with that of sediment type and depth. C. arenosa n. sp. was distributed on silty sand sediments and was most dense between 13-19 m depth. C.limosa n. sp. was most dense (over 1,000 individuals per m2) on silty clay sediments below 15 m. C. ceramica Fulton & Grant occurred at low densities on sandy sediments less than 10m depth and has previously been reported from intertidal muddy flats along with C. australiensis (Dana).