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The morphology of phosphate sclerites Tannuolina pavlovi Kouchinsky, Bengtson et Murdock, 2010 from the Kostinskaya Formation section of the Siberian Platform (right bank of the Sukhaya Tunguska River) was studied. The microstructure of the studied sclerites with a two-layered wall has been described for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports three new records of soft corals, viz. Sarcophyton boletiforme Tixier-Durivault 1958; S. cinereum Tixier-Durivault 1946; and S. turschi Verseveldt 1976, from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. The specimens were collected from coral reef regions, to a depth of 25 m. Species identification involved a detailed analysis of colony morphology, sclerite structures, and measurements taken from various parts of the colony. Sarcophyton boletifome features club-shaped sclerites (up to 0.38 mm) on capitulum and stalk surfaces, and spindle-shaped sclerites (up to 1.10 mm) in the stalk interior; S. cinereum exhibits warty club-shaped sclerites, in the capitulum surface layer (0.17–0.27 mm) and in the base surface layer (0.10–0.55 mm); and stalk interior features curved or straight spindles (up to 1.77 mm). The capitulum of S. turchi bears club-shaped surface sclerites, ranging in size from 0.09 to 0.38 mm, while the stalk interior contains spindle-shaped structures ranging from 0.35 to 0.75 mm. In a time when octocorals are threatened, it is refreshing to find octocoral species that are new to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These islands remain amongst the most ecologically significant in the Indo-Pacific region and should be protected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The male genital, pregenital skeleton, musculature of male terminalia, and the ovipositor were studied in Synthesiomyia nudiseta (Wulp). A comparison was conducted between the terminal segments and muscles of S. nudiseta and previously studied species of the subfamily Azeliinae. Notable differences were found between previously studied species of the subfamily Azeliinae and Synthesiomyia + Muscina. These differences correspond to apomorphic character states in Synthesiomyia + Muscina, including the large size of the ejaculatory apodeme and the powerful constrictors of the ejaculatory apodeme M 23; the completely membranous sternite VI; the membrane connection of the muscle ISM 5 (lower); the small size of pregonites and postgonites; and the joints of the phallapodeme muscles М 21 at the base of the hypandrial arms. Based on these differences, Synthesiomyia + Muscina can be assigned to the subfamily Reinwardtiinae, as has been confirmed by recent molecular studies. However, similarities in the set of pregenital muscles and the set of phallapodeme muscles between Synthesiomyia + Muscina and the Azeliinae were also noted. These similarities may be considered as plesiomorphic character states, indicating their phylogenetic relationship. It can be argued that Reinwardtiinae + Azeliinae constitute sister groups and occupy the basal position within the family Muscidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular systematic studies of the anthozoan class Octocorallia have revealed widespread incongruence between phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic classification at all levels of the Linnean hierarchy. Among the soft coral taxa in order Malacalcyonacea, the family Alcyoniidae and its type genus Alcyonium have both been recognised to be highly polyphyletic. A recent family-level revision of Octocorallia established a number of new families for genera formerly considered to belong to Alcyoniidae, but revision of Alcyonium is not yet complete. Previous molecular studies have supported the placement of Alcyonium verseveldti (Benayahu, 1982) in family Cladiellidae rather than Alcyoniidae, phylogenetically distinct from the other three genera in that family. Here we describe a new genus, Ofwegenum gen. nov. to accommodate O. verseveldti comb. nov. and three new species of that genus, O. coronalucis sp. nov., O. kloogi sp. nov., and O. colli sp. nov., bringing the total number of species in this genus to four. Ofwegenum gen. nov. is a rarely encountered genus so far known from only a few locations spanning the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. We present the morphological characters of each species and use molecular data from both DNA barcoding and target-enrichment of conserved elements to explore species boundaries and phylogenetic relationships within the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of arthropod remains from ardiaeological contexts has the potential to reveal. information about the past thot may not necessarily nonbe readily forthcoming from faunal, botanical or artefact miatyses. Yet, iii southern Africa the field of archaeoentomology is practically non-existent. Here, 1 explore the application of excitation (fluorescence) light microscopy to an experimental sample of cruslied arthropod remains of 14 conimon species. It is shown thrit di#crent lighting pathways can reveal -valitable inforination about arthropod sclerites (pieces of their chitinous exoskeleton). and that liltraviolet light iii particular is itseful for distinguishing certain features, some of which appear to be taxon -specific, mid hence helpful for identifying highly fragmented arthropod remains recovered from archaeological settings. Furthermore, excited light can be used effectively to distinguish arthropod reinains from inert sediments and botanical fibres. While a lot of work remains to be dotte, not least of which includes the establishment of a useful arthropod reference collection and the scouring of sedinient samples. Foin excavated sites that have not had the benefit of an archaeoentomological assessment, I hope tliat this paper highlights the potential of excited light microscopy for arthropod identification and will stimulate further research on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abdominal and pregenital segments and genitalia were studied in males of Zaphne barbiventris (Zetterstedt, 1845) and Delia fabricii (Holmgren, 1872) (Anthomyiidae). The examined species are very similar in the structure of the sclerites and muscles of their terminal segments. Differences between Delia Robineau‐Desvoidy, 1830 and Zaphne Robineau‐Desvoidy, 1830 were found only in the structure of the pregenital segments and their muscles. Delia has well‐developed and well‐identified tergite VI, while tergite VI of Zaphne is fused in syntergosternite VI + VII + VIII as indicated by the insertion of muscles of ITM 5 running from tergite V. Within members of the muscoid grade, the skeleton and musculature of male terminalia of the Anthomyiidae were similar to that in the subfamily Azeliinae of the Muscidae and the Scathophagidae. The complete set of phallapodeme muscles, as well as the complete set of muscles of the pregenital sclerites and the position of cercal muscles M 26, has shown that the Anthomyiidae have more plesiomorphic character states than other members of the muscoid grade. Descriptions and figures of the terminal sclerites and muscles of Zaphne barbiventris are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously studied the musculature of the male genitalia in one species of Psilidae—Chyliza vittata Meigen, 1826. Here, we describe for the first time the male genital muscles of Imantimyia nigrifrons (Macquart, 1835), Loxocera aristata (Panzer, 1801), Chamaepsila humeralis (Zetterstedt, 1847), Psilosoma audouini (Zetterstedt, 1835), and Psila nigripalpis Shatalkin, 1983. It is shown that Psilidae are characterized by secondary symmetry of the pregenital and genital sclerites and muscles, and by reduction of the syntergosternite VII + VIII, which is correlated with reduction of the ejaculatory apodeme (apomorphy); the muscles M25 are also absent. The family shows compaction of the pregenital and genital skeleton and muscles realized in different ways. Clades [[[Chyliza] + [[Imantimyia + Loxocera] + [Chamaepsila + [Psilosoma + Psila]]] are supported by several synapomorphies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genital and pregenital skeleton and musculature were studied in males of the following species of the muscid subfamily Phaoniinae: Helinaluteisquama (Zetterstedt, 1845), H. bohemani (Ringdahl, 1916), Phaoniameigeni Pont, 1986, Ph. hybrida (Schnabl, 1888), and Ph. lugubris (Meigen, 1826). The examined species are very similar in the structure of the sclerites and muscles of their terminal segments. The structure of pregenital muscles in Phaoniinae is similar to that in the subfamily Azeliinae, which occupies the basal position within Muscidae. The fewer muscles of the phallapodeme, surstyli, and subepandrial sclerites in Phaoniinae constitute the apomorphic character states and do not allow this subfamily to be placed at the base of the Muscidae branch. In general, the structure of the male pregenital musculature in Phaoniinae is most similar to that in Mydaeinae, and both Phaoniinae and Mydaeinae occupy an intermediate position between the basal Azeliinae and the derived Muscinae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new genus and species Monoshanitesdentatus gen. et sp. nov., consisting of asymmetrical sclerites of problematic animal organisms belonging to the family Siphogonuchitidae is described from the Khevte-Tsakhir-Nuruu section of Western Mongolia (Tommotian Stage, Beds with Halkieria amorpha, Bayangol Formation). The microstructure of sclerites with a double wall was studied: the inner layer is lamellar; the outer layer is columnar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abdominal and pregenital segments and genitalia were studied in males of Tachina nupta Rondani, 1859. The examined species is very similar in the structure of the sclerites and muscles of their terminal segments to Calliphoraerythrocephala Meigen, 1826 previously studied by R. Salzer. Despite the same set of pregenital muscles, a completely membranous tergite VI was found in Tachina in contrast to Calliphora. The discovery of membranous tergite VI in Tachina nupta indicates that it was not included in the syntergosternite VII +VIII. The membranous tergite VI, as well as the reduced set of muscles of the phallapodeme (absence of muscles of postgonites) in Tachina compared with Calliphora, indicates the result of apomorphic reduction in Tachina. Descriptions and figures of the genital sclerites and muscles of Tachina nupta are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corals are ecosystem engineers whose tree-like structures give three-dimensional complexity to the habitat. Their population dynamics are affected by recruitment and juvenile survival. Therefore, several defense strategies, such as the formation of hard skeletons and/or spicules, have evolved to protect these vulnerable stages. The family Coralliidae, to which “precious corals” belong, represent an exception in the order Scleralcyonacea, as they form hard CaCO3 skeletons and small CaCO3 structures, the sclerites. The skeletogenesis of Corallium species is relatively well documented in adult colonies but remains poorly known in the early stages of the development of new colonies. To shed light on the timing of Corallium rubrum’s early skeleton formation and the role of sclerites, we focused on the first 4-years of life, applying different techniques, from scanning electron microscopy to synchrotron tomography and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Our results show that: 1) the first visible sclerites in the primary polyp appear at least 12 days after larval settlement, which is associated with a high CaCO3 production rate (4.5 ± 2.3 μg of CaCO3 per day). Furthermore, growth rings are visible in the sclerites, showing that fully matured sclerites grow fast, probably in 3 to 4 days. 2) Sclerites are the only biomineral product in the first year of life of C. rubrum’s colonies. 3) The evidence of a consolidated axial skeleton, intended as the inner part of the skeleton characteristic of the adult red coral (the medullary zone, MZ), is recorded for the first time in 2-year-old colonies. 4) The annular zone (AZ) around the medullary zone starts forming not before four years after settlement. Thus, primary polyp builds a deformable armor made of only sclerites during the first year. This shelter provides mechanical protection from abrasion and predation to early settled colonies. After two years, settlers are firmly and mineralogically attached to the substratum, which makes them less vulnerable to predation than younger recruits that are not anchored by the skeleton.

Octocorals possess sclerites, small elements comprised of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) that are important diagnostic characters in octocoral taxonomy. Among octocorals, sea pens comprise a unique order (Pennatulacea) that live in a wide range of depths. Habitat depth is considered to be important in the diversification of octocoral species, but a lack of information on sea pens has limited studies on their adaptation and evolution across depth. Here, we aimed to reveal trends of adaptation and evolution of sclerite shapes in sea pens with regards to habitat depth via phylogenetic analyses and ancestral reconstruction analyses. Colony form of sea pens is suggested to have undergone convergent evolution and the loss of axis has occurred independently across the evolution of sea pens. Divergences of sea pen taxa and of sclerite forms are suggested to depend on habitat depths. In addition, their sclerite forms may be related to evolutionary history of the sclerite and the surrounding chemical environment as well as water temperature. Three-flanged sclerites may possess the tolerance towards the environment of the deep sea, while plate sclerites are suggested to be adapted towards shallower waters, and have evolved independently multiple times. The common ancestor form of sea pens was predicted to be deep-sea and similar to family Pseudumbellulidae in form, possessing sclerites intermediate in form to those of alcyonaceans and modern sea pens such as spindles, rods with spines, and three-flanged sclerites with serrated edges sclerites, as well as having an axis and bilateral traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sapygidae is a small family of Aculeata (Hymenoptera), which is divided into two subfamilies Fedtschenkiinae and Sapyginae. The morphology of the skeleton of the sting apparatus in some European species of Sapyginae, which are kleptoparasites of wild bees from the families Megachilidae, Apidae and Colletidae, was examined. Significant differences in its skeletal structure were noted between Sapygina decemguttata and representatives of the genera Sapyga and Monosapyga. The sting of Sapygina belongs to the decurved type, while Sapyga and Monosapyga have a sting close to the coiled type. A comparison of the structure of the skeletons of the sting apparatuses of Sapygina and Sapyga with that of Fedtschenkia (according to other authors) was made. The similarity of the structure of the sting apparatuses of Sapygina and Fedtschenkia was noted. The possibility of using the Sapyginae sting as an ovipositor is discussed. • The morphology of the skeleton of the sting apparatus in four European species of Sapyginae was examined. • Significant differences in the structure of the sting apparatus is between Sapygina and three species of Sapyga -group. • Some structures of the sting apparatus of Sapygina are closer to Fedtschenkia. • The representatives of Sapyginae use the sting as an ovipositor, but the egg does not pass through the sting canal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As sessile marine organisms, soft corals may use chemical or/and physical factors of defense against fish predators for their survival and growth. In Vietnam, corals of the speciose genus Sarcophyton are abundant on reefs. However, little is known about their defensive traits and strategies. In the study of feeding deterrence, experiments in the field and in an aquarium were conducted using only crude extract, only sclerites, and a mixture of both from Sarcophyton cinereum, S. glaucum, S. serenei, S. trocheliophorum and Sarcophyton sp. For all species, pellets containing a mixture of crude extract and sclerites were consumed by reef fishes from 0.8 to 14.6% (in the field, F) and from 0.3 to 13.3% (in aquarium, A); crude extract was consumed from 5.2 to 42.6% (F) and from 7.4 to 64.0% (A); and sclerites were consumed from 34.6 to 100% (F) and from 30 to 83.3% (A). The consumption of pellets containing S. serenei sclerites was significantly reduced both in the field assays with reef fishes and in the aquarium assays with the moon wrasse Thalassoma lunare (P < 0.05), which showed sclerites as a dominant physical factor in the S. serenei feeding deterrence. Overall, in Sarcophyton soft corals, the effect of fish predation prevention was most pronounced in the combination of both chemical and physical defense factors, followed by the chemical and then the physical factor alone. Hence, both chemical and physical factors of defense against predation may contribute to the Sarcophyton abundance on reefs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The process of calcium carbonate biomineralization has arisen multiple times during metazoan evolution. In the phylum Cnidaria, biomineralization has mostly been studied in the subclass Hexacorallia (i.e. stony corals) in comparison to the subclass Octocorallia (i.e. red corals); the two diverged approximately 600 million years ago. The precious Mediterranean red coral, Corallium rubrum, is an octocorallian species, which produces two distinct high-magnesium calcite biominerals, the axial skeleton and the sclerites. In order to gain insight into the red coral biomineralization process and cnidarian biomineralization evolution, we studied the protein repertoire forming the organic matrix (OM) of its two biominerals. Results We combined High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry and transcriptome analysis to study the OM composition of the axial skeleton and the sclerites. We identified a total of 102 OM proteins, 52 are found in the two red coral biominerals with scleritin being the most abundant protein in each fraction. Contrary to reef building corals, the red coral organic matrix possesses a large number of collagen-like proteins. Agrin-like glycoproteins and proteins with sugar-binding domains are also predominant. Twenty-seven and 23 proteins were uniquely assigned to the axial skeleton and the sclerites, respectively. The inferred regulatory function of these OM proteins suggests that the difference between the two biominerals is due to the modeling of the matrix network, rather than the presence of specific structural components. At least one OM component could have been horizontally transferred from prokaryotes early during Octocorallia evolution. Conclusion Our results suggest that calcification of the red coral axial skeleton likely represents a secondary calcification of an ancestral gorgonian horny axis. In addition, the comparison with stony coral skeletomes highlighted the low proportion of similar proteins between the biomineral OMs of hexacorallian and octocorallian corals, suggesting an independent acquisition of calcification in anthozoans.

Velvet ants (Mutillidae) are one of the largest families of solitary wasps in the Aculeata (Hymenoptera) and divided into eight subfamilies. Their larvae are ectoparasitoids of the larvae or pupae of other Aculeata, females use the sting for arresting the development of the host, as well as for defense. The sting apparatus of Mutillidae consists of the same sclerites as in other aculeates but has certain features peculiar to this family. Here, we focus on the shape of sclerites, their relative positions and articulations in representatives of some mutillid subfamilies. Some morphological adaptations are described for the first time in the subfamily Myrmosinae. The anterior bridge and 2nd valvifer articulation are apomorphic features of Myrmosinae and the coiled sting and some associated features are apomorphic for Dasylabrinae, Myrmillinae and Mutillinae. The structure and movements of the sting apparatus are discussed as well as some aspects of function evolution of the differences between the subfamilies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The process of calcium carbonate biomineralization has arisen multiple times during metazoan evolution. In the phylum Cnidaria, biomineralization has mostly been studied in the subclass Hexacorallia (i.e. stony corals) in comparison to the subclass Octocorallia (i.e. red corals); the two diverged approximately 600 million years ago. The precious Mediterranean red coral, Corallium rubrum, is an octocorallian species, which produces two distinct highmagnesium calcite biominerals, the axial skeleton and the sclerites. In order to gain insight into the red coral biomineralization process and cnidarian biomineralization evolution, we studied the protein repertoire forming the organic matrix (OM) of its two biominerals. Results: We combined High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry and transcriptome analysis to study the OM composition of the axial skeleton and the sclerites. We identified a total of 102 OM proteins, 52 are found in the two red coral biominerals with scleritin being the most abundant protein in each fraction. Contrary to reef building corals, the red coral organic matrix possesses a large number of collagen-like proteins. Agrin-like glycoproteins and proteins with sugar-binding domains are also predominant. Twenty-seven and 23 proteins were uniquely assigned to the axial skeleton and the sclerites, respectively. The inferred regulatory function of these OM proteins suggests that the difference between the two biominerals is due to the modeling of the matrix network, rather than the presence of specific structural components. At least one OM component could have been horizontally transferred from prokaryotes early during Octocorallia evolution. Conclusion: Our results suggest that calcification of the red coral axial skeleton likely represents a secondary calcification of an ancestral gorgonian horny axis. In addition, the comparison with stony coral skeletomes highlighted the low proportion of similar proteins between the biomineral OMs of hexacorallian and octocorallian corals, suggesting an independent acquisition of calcification in anthozoans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically the taxonomy of the genus Timarcha has been, and continues to be, quite confusing and largely erroneous. The confusion is mainly due to the absence of reliable traits that aid in precise identification; the lack of study of types at species-level has also contributed to the difficulty in the taxonomy. To improve this situation, we propose techniques for the dissection and study of three useful diagnostic characters such as the vestiture of the sole of female tarsi, and the morphology of the endophallus and its sclerites in males. These features combined are distinctive for each of the species and can help to resolve the taxonomy of the genus.

The genus Paramuricea is present in the Mediterranean Sea with two species, P. clavata and P. macrospina. These species have similar bathymetric distributions and can live in sympatry. P. macrospina shows morphological plasticity leading sometimes to an erroneous classification as P. clavata. Studying four ambiguous morphotypes of P. macrospina collected in different localities of the Mediterranean Sea, we provide new insights on both the taxonomy and the distribution of this species. Our analyses reveal high morphological plasticity within the sampled colonies, which in two cases were characterised by a peculiar pigmentation and a morphological pattern resembling that of P. clavata. After having confirmed the genetic identity of the samples, we tested the validity of traditional taxonomic characters, and found that the most reliable character to discriminate between P. macrospina and P. clavata is the number of rows of spindles in the collaret of the polyps. All other features are highly variable and therefore do not allow a correct identification. The bathymetric and geographic distribution of P. macrospina is here updated, showing, with the exception of the south-eastern side, broad preference in the whole basin. Moreover, further studies are needed to investigate the gene flow among and within the Mediterranean populations of P. macrospina and to assess whether the morphological plasticity is driven by adaptive genetic processes of populations exposed to different environmental, climatic and bathymetric conditions.

The male genital and pregenital skeleton and musculature were studied in males of the following species of the Muscidae subfamily Azeliinae: Drymeia firthiana (Huckett, 1965), Drymeia longiseta Sorokina & Pont, 2015, Drymeia segnis (Holmgren, 1883), Thricops nigritellus (Zetterstedt, 1838), Thricops hirtulus (Zetterstedt, 1838), Hydrotaea dentipes (Fabricius, 1805), Muscina stabulans (Fallén, 1817), and Muscina levida (Harris, 1780). Descriptions and figures of the genital sclerites and muscles of D. firthiana and M. stabulans are given. A comparison was made between the genital segments and muscles of previously studied species of Mydaeinae and Muscinae and those of the Azeliinae. Based on the structure of the skeleton and muscles of syntergosternite VII + VIII and the phallapodeme muscles, significant differences were found between the subfamily Azeliinae and the subfamilies Mydaeinae and Muscinae. The basal position of the Azeliinae within the family Muscidae was confirmed. A comparison of the genital segments and muscles of the Muscidae with those of the Scathophagidae (Scathophaga stercoraria (Linnaeus, 1758)) and Anthomyiidae (Delia platura (Meigen, 1826)) was made. Tendencies in reduction of the pregenital segments and musculature, as well as of the phallapodeme muscles in the evolution of the Muscoidea have been revealed. The complete set of phallapodeme muscles in the Scathophagidae and Anthomyiidae corresponds to the basal state, and therefore the structure of the genital sclerites and muscles in the Muscidae shows a certain degree of reduction. The progressive changes in the Muscidae from the Azeliinae through the Mydaeinae to the Muscinae were traced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Possible variants of systematic position of Cambrian problematic fossils of the family Mobergellidae are discussed. An affinity between mobergellids and Sipuncula, a phylum of marine benthic worm-like lophotrochozoans possibly related to annelids, is proposed for the first time. The mobergellid discoidal sclerites are interpreted as caudal shields of sipunculans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abdominal and pregenital segments and genitalia were studied in males of Spilogona Schnabl, 1911: S. tundrae (Schnabl, 1915), S. sanctipauli (Malloch, 1921), and S. zaitzevi (Schnabl, 1915) (Muscidae, Coenosiinae). The examined species are very similar in the structure of the sclerites and muscles of their terminal segments, and more strongly resemble the previously studied members of Mydaeinae (especially the genus Graphomya) than Muscinae. The well-developed pregenital sclerites and muscles in Spilogona indicate the basal position of this genus within Muscidae relative to Muscinae and probably Mydaeinae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A remarkable characteristic of katydids (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae) is the elongated ovipositor, which is associated with oviposition behavior. The high degree of complexity of both sclerites and muscles arrangement of the ovipositor, is only similar to the ovipositor of Hymenoptera. Here we describe the morphology of the ovipositor within Tettigoniidae, and add descriptions of known oviposition behavior. Fifteen skeletal structures can be recognized, of these, three pairs of muscles are new while nine pairs were already described in the literature. The new muscles are ap2vf, anterior projection of second valvifer; bcov, blade complex of the ovipositor; and dbl, dorsal blade. The morphology of the ovipositor blade complex (bcov), the shape of the first valvifer (1vf), posterior intervalvular sclerite (piv), tergite IX (T9), anterior projection of the second valvifer (ap2vf), and the second valvifer (2vf), and their related muscles affect oviposition in Tettigoniidae. This contribution helps to understand katydid's oviposition behavior. Additionally, the new descriptions help in the search for new characters in Tettigoniidae. • This work is focused in better understand the ovipositor of katydids, which is associated with the oviposition behavior. • We explored the morphology of the ovipositor within Tettigoniidae, including all known oviposition habits. • 15 skeletal structures were recognized, from this, three described as new, and nine pairs of muscles. • We related the morphology of sclerites and muscles to oviposition habits. • This contribution can help to understand the evolutionary features of katydid's oviposition behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides descriptions of two new species of Calcigorgia gorgonians collected from the Sea of Okhotsk between 1973 and 2008. The new species are Calcigorgia herba sp. nov. and С. lukini sp. nov., belonging to the deep-water coral fauna of the temperate Northern Pacific. The taxonomy structure of the genus is reviewed and a comparative table is provided for all known species of Calcigorgia. The following taxonomic changes are made: the diagnosis of the genus was corrected from that given in Matsumoto et al. (2019); synonymization of C. simushiri Dautova, 2018 with C. spiculifera Broch, 1935 and inclusion of additional specimens in C. japonica Dautova, 2007 (both performed by Matsumoto et al. 2019) are assumed erroneous. The finding of previously undescribed species emphasizes the need for further surveys, particularly in deeper waters, to improve knowledge of the Octocorallia fauna in Far East seas. The distribution of Calcigorgia (Octocorallia, Acanthogorgiidae) is reviewed and presented based on field and collection studies published since 1935 as well as miscellaneous data from previous literature.

Molecular systematic studies of the anthozoan class Octocorallia have revealed widespread incongruence between phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic classification at all levels of the Linnean hierarchy. Among the soft coral taxa in order Malacalcyonacea, the family Alcyoniidae and its type genus Alcyonium have both been recognised to be highly polyphyletic. A recent family-level revision of Octocorallia established a number of new families for genera formerly considered to belong to Alcyoniidae, but revision of Alcyonium is not yet complete. Previous molecular studies have supported the placement of Alcyoniumverseveldti (Benayahu, 1982) in family Cladiellidae rather than Alcyoniidae, phylogenetically distinct from the other three genera in that family. Here we describe a new genus, Ofwegenum gen. nov. to accommodate O.verseveldti comb. nov. and three new species of that genus, O.coronalucis sp. nov. , O.kloogi sp. nov. , and O.colli sp. nov. , bringing the total number of species in this genus to four. Ofwegenum gen. nov. is a rarely encountered genus so far known from only a few locations spanning the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. We present the morphological characters of each species and use molecular data from both DNA barcoding and target-enrichment of conserved elements to explore species boundaries and phylogenetic relationships within the genus., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Catherine S. McFadden, Yehuda Benayahu, Kaveh Samimi-Namin.)

Phosphatic sclerites Torellella gracilenta Esakova, 1996 from the Lower Cambrian Khatyng Member are studied from the Byd'yangaya Section (Tommotian Stage, D. regularis zone, Siberian Platform). The microlayered microstructure of the sclerites of T. gracilenta is studied for the first time. It is suggested that the organisms studied have a polychaete affinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most Alcyonacea (subclass Octocorallia) have skeletons made up of small calcareous pieces called sclerites that are difficult to both preserve and recognize, which explains the scarce and irregular fossil record of the group. In this work, we study 56 geological samples bearing Syringoalcyon, a genus constituted by Alcyonacea represented by sclerites encrusting the outer walls and stolons of a syringoporoid coral. These samples come from 18 Silurian to mostly Carboniferous localities in Canada, USA, Mexico, Morocco, Algeria, Spain, Iran, and China. A morphological and numerical study was carried out to determine the main morphological and palaeobiological features of the sclerites and the Alcyonacea itself and to establish a new genus for these sclerites. The study facilitated distinguishing four sclerite morphotypes (spindle, elongate spindle, club, and arrowhead). Live sclerites can be attached through biotic or abiotic linkages to biotic substrate patches by insertion or cementation. Spindle sclerites arranged in vertical fences are the most common model, but other arrangements such as stacking or short horizontal fences have been observed even in a single specimen. The morphotypes, dimensions of the sclerites, substrates, and types of arrangement observed are well known in Recent Alcyonacea. According to the arrangements of the sclerites, the alcyonacean morphology was different depending on the shape and dimensions of the substrate. This Syringoporidae–Alcyonacea association is a good example of ecological engineering, but several data suggest that the relationship between these two corals was closer than hard substrate colonization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• La survenue d'une atteinte inflammatoire ophtalmologique est un évènement qui doit être pris en charge de façon conjointe par l'ophtalmologue et le rhumatologue/interniste. • Les atteintes cornéo-sclérales des rhumatismes inflammatoires sont nombreuses : il faut distinguer le syndrome sec, les épisclérites, des sclérites et des PUK qui sont des localisations potentiellement sévères. • En cas d'atteinte isolée ophtalmologique sans diagnostic de maladie inflammatoire systémique préalable, le rôle du rhumatologue/interniste sera de conduire les explorations nécessaires pour identifier cette maladie. • L'intensification du traitement systémique devra être reconsidérée devant l'apparition d'une sclérite ou d'une PUK, car il s'agit d'un toujours d'un marqueur de sévérité. Les atteintes cornéo-sclérales des rhumatismes inflammatoires chroniques comprennent un spectre d'affections de fréquence et gravité variables. Le syndrome sec, l'atteinte la plus fréquente, avec ses complications, et les épisclérites demandent d'habitude un traitement local. En revanche, les sclérites, dans leurs différentes formes, et la kératite ulcérative périphérique nécessitent souvent une corticothérapie systémique et la mise en route, ou l'intensification, d'un traitement immunomodulateur. Rarement l'atteinte cornéo-sclérale peut être la première manifestation d'un rhumatisme inflammatoire chronique. La fréquence des atteintes cornéo-sclérales graves n'est pas estimée de façon directe, et se base sur des extrapolations à partir de séries ou cohortes, souvent historiques. De même, du fait de l'absence d'essais thérapeutiques contrôlés, leur prise en charge est basée surtout sur l'expérience clinique des centres de référence et sur des séries limitées de malades. Une collaboration étroite entre le rhumatologue et l'ophtalmologue est essentielle pour la prise en charge rapide et optimale de ces conditions potentiellement graves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetraonchidae is a small and relatively monomorphic family of dactylogyroid monogeneans. Since the morphology of sclerites of the attachment organ (haptor) is one of the primary criteria in tetraonchid taxonomy, the confocal study of sclerites and associated musculature may provide valuable taxonomic information. The aim of this study was to examine the haptoral sclerites and musculature in Tetraonchus monenteron (Wagener, 1857), a common parasite of pike. Haptoral musculature of T. monenteron was studied using phalloidin staining and confocal microscopy, with sclerites visualized in the reflection confocal mode. Haptoral armature of T. monenteron consists of ventral and dorsal pairs of anchors, a ventral bar, eight pairs of marginal hooks and at least three pairs of accessory sclerites. Anchors are operated by 14 muscles, of which the most prominent are extrinsic muscles, the transverse muscle interconnecting the ventral anchors, three muscles connecting the ventral anchor to the ventral bar, and four muscles of the dorsal and ventral anchors inserting on the haptoral wall. The extrinsic muscles are attached to the braceshaped sclerites, which in turn are connected to the dorsal anchors via muscle bundles. The gaffing action of the dorsal anchors is likely to be achieved by the extrinsic muscles and the transverse muscle that clamps the extrinsic muscles against the body wall. The ventral anchors are probably held in attached position by the transverse muscle and four muscles inserting on the ventral bar and haptoral wall. The haptoral musculature may have potential utility for tetraonchid taxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Paramuricea is present in the Mediterranean Sea with two species, P. clavata and P. macrospina. These species have similar bathymetric distributions and can live in sympatry. P. macrospina shows morphological plasticity leading sometimes to an erroneous classification as P. clavata. Studying four ambiguous morphotypes of P. macrospina collected in different localities of the Mediterranean Sea, we provide new insights on both the taxonomy and the distribution of this species. Our analyses reveal high morphological plasticity within the sampled colonies, which in two cases were characterised by a peculiar pigmentation and a morphological pattern resembling that of P. clavata. After having confirmed the genetic identity of the samples, we tested the validity of traditional taxonomic characters, and found that the most reliable character to discriminate between P. macrospina and P. clavata is the number of rows of spindles in the collaret of the polyps. All other features are highly variable and therefore do not allow a correct identification. The bathymetric and geographic distribution of P. macrospina is here updated, showing, with the exception of the south-eastern side, broad preference in the whole basin. Moreover, further studies are needed to investigate the gene flow among and within the Mediterranean populations of P. macrospina and to assess whether the morphological plasticity is driven by adaptive genetic processes of populations exposed to different environmental, climatic and bathymetric conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of manual dissection of the musculature of the male genitalia in Nothybus kuznetsovorum are fully confirmed by the modern methods of Micro-CT. A comparative analysis of Neria commutata and Cothornobata sp. shows that an increase in the flexion in the genitalia of males and the displacement of syntergosternite VII to the ventral side in Cothornobata sp. caused the disappearance of the muscles ITM6-7r and ITM7-8r. In addition, this increase in flexion apparently caused the fusion of the M18 muscles into one bundle. The muscle ISM5-6c goes on to moving the second segment of the forcipate appendages of sternite V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The females of the spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) hunt spiders to provision their larvae. The genital structures of pompilid females are modified in a sting that is used for paralyzing the prey (spiders) and defense. The skeleto‐muscular structure of the sting apparatus of a typical representative of the family (Cryptocheilus versicolor) is examined. The shape of sclerites, their relative positions and articulations are described. Some morphological adaptations are described for the first time. The wide anal arc of the tergum IX provides a stiff support for the muscles that move the valvulae. The resilin structures in the areas of articulation support the work of muscles and in some cases replace them. The 1st valvulae form a venom duct along their entire length, which provides the delivery of the venom to a specific point. An unpaired flap in the venom duct provides a dose of venom in the sting. This mechanism probably enhances the speed and accuracy of the wasp's sting movements. Functions of muscles and interactions of the structures of the sting apparatus of C. versicolor are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The roles of gorgonian sclerites as structural components and predator deterrents have been widely studied. Yet their role as barriers against microbes has only recently been investigated, and even less is known about the diversity and roles of the chemical compounds associated with sclerites. Methods Here, we examine the semi-volatile organic compound fraction (SVOCs) associated with sclerites from healthy and diseased Gorgonia ventalina sea fan corals to understand their possible role as a stress response or in defense of infection. We also measured the oxidative potential of compounds from diseased and healthy G. ventalina colonies. Results The results showed that sclerites harbor a great diversity of SVOCs. Overall, 70 compounds were identified, the majority of which are novel with unknown biological roles. The majority of SVOCs identified exhibit multiple immune-related roles including antimicrobial and radical scavenging functions. The free radical activity assays further confirmed the anti-oxidative potential of some these compounds. The anti-oxidative activity was, nonetheless, similar across sclerites regardless of the health condition of the colony, although sclerites from diseased sea fans display slightly higher anti-oxidative activity than the healthy ones. Discussion Sclerites harbor great SVOCs diversity, the majority of which are novel to sea fans or any other corals. Yet the scientific literature consulted showed that the roles of compounds found in sclerites vary from antioxidant to antimicrobial compounds. However, this study fell short in determine the origin of the SVOCs identified, undermining our capacity to determine the biological roles of the SVOCs on sclerites and sea fans.

Dynamics of the linear sizes of the barfin plaice Liopsetta pinnifasciata has been considered during the life cycle. Two stages are distinguished: an intensive initial growth (35.9% of the maximum length for 6.0% of the life) and its subsequent gradual variation. The linear growth rate is shown to correspond to the rate of sclerite formation on the scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Techniques involving chemical treatment are suggested for discrimination of annual and seasonal rings in the otoliths of band-finned flounder Liopsetta pinnifasciata. In the first annual zone, three seasonal rings are discerned, and four seasonal rings are discerned in subsequent zones. It is supposed that these rings correspond to biological seasons. The annual rings on otoliths and scales are formed synchronously: the first ring in December-March, and the subsequent ones in December-February. The time of formation of the first annual zone is less than a year; accordingly, the age of Liopsetta pinnifasciata determined by registering structures is less than its calendar age. According to calculations, metamorphosis of Liopsetta pinnifasciata ends at the length approximately 20 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of taking into account parallelisms in the evolution of morphological characters is analyzed for the taxonomy of the class Holothuroidea. The establishment of the order Dactylochirotida and classification of the order Elasipodida serve as examples to illustrate insufficient appreciation of parallelisms in Holothuroidea. The following characters, evolving independently in different groups of sea cucumbers, are considered: a stout skeleton, reduction of the calcareous ring and the body wall sclerites; similarity of body shape; similarity in the shape of tentacles; reduction in the number of tentacles from 12 to 10 in different fam-ilies and subfamilies of the order Synaptida. Based on the analysis of morphological and molecular data, the family Deimatidae is transferred from the order Elasipodida to the order Aspidochirotida. It is hypothesized that the concave cup-shaped sclerites with three to five rays occurring in the family Laetmogonidae (order Elasipodida) are of paedomorphic origin and correspond to the early growth stages of the laetmogonid wheels; the concave cross-shaped sclerites of the families Elpidiidae and Psychropotidae may have originated from laetmogonid concave cup-shaped sclerites. Emended diagnosis of the order Elasipodida is proposed. The family Vaneyellidae previously synonymized by the author with the family Cucumariidae is reestablished, and its emended diagnosis is also proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sessile organisms such as octocorals cannot avoid threats such as predation, parasitism or fungal infections through evasive responses. Instead, they rely on strategies that deter or reduce the impact of these threats. One such strategy is the development of hard structures such as sclerites, which are minute calcium carbonate skeletal elements located on top of the ectoderm and within the mesoglea and gastrodermal tube walls. Sclerites have multiple roles, including structural support of the colony and protection from predators. The role of sclerites as a physical barrier that deters fungal infection, however, is unknown. This study examines the potential role of sea fan sclerites as protection from fungal infection. To accomplish this, four different fungi isolated from healthy sea fans were inoculated into 5 mL tubes filled with culture media and with sclerites from healthy and diseased fans placed on top. To determine whether chemical compounds in the sclerites impact infection, sclerites from healthy and diseased fans were extracted for several days with acetone prior to inoculation. Results showed that the sclerite layer delayed fungal infection from reaching the agar when compared to controls (tubes with agar but no sclerites). There was no difference between tubes with healthy and diseased sclerites, but there were differences among sclerites extracted with acetone. This study suggests that, in addition to the roles in structural support and predator deterrence, sclerites play a role as physical and chemical barriers against to fungal infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphology of the phosphatic sclerites of the species Mobergella radiolata that come from the Lower Cambrian sections is studied, and the stratigraphic distribution of the species is revised. The sclerite laminated microstructure of this species is described and is shown to be similar to that of some gastropods, bivalves, brachiopods, bryozoans, and corals. The species M. hexactina Skovsted, 2003 and M. sibirica Skovsted, 2003 are shown to be junior synonyms of M. radiolata based on sclerite morphology supported by the results of statistical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The sclerotized structures of monogeneans have traditionally been studied by light microscopy and different staining techniques. Recently, enzymatic digestion followed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has enabled the examination of structural details not visible with light microscopy. In order to obtain better, and more accurate, morphological information on sclerotized structures not affected by mounting medium or cover slip pressure, the sclerites of Cichlidogyrus philander Douëllou, 1993 (Monogenea, Ancyrocephalidae), collected from Pseudocrenilabrus philander (Weber, 1897), were redescribed using SEM. Parasites were collected from Padda Dam, Gauteng, South Africa and soft tissue was digested to release the sclerotized structures. The digested tissue also provided sufficient genetic material for molecular characterization of this species. Cichlidogyrus philander is characterised by a penis with a sharp, curved, lateral termination, an accessory piece with a hook-like extremity that may appear forked terminally, and lack of a visible vagina. The transverse bars have concave and convex surfaces with ribs on the concave surface. The dorsal bar bears fenestrations at the base of the auricles and the ventral and dorsal gripi are dissimilar. Furthermore, the large first pair of uncinuli shows lateral wings on the left side of the base. On top of this wing, a ball-like structure with a small fenestration is visible. Genetic characters derived from the 28S rDNA, the COI mitochondrial DNA and ITS1 rDNA regions distinguish C. philander from all other Cichlidogyrus sequenced species.

The musculature of male genitalia was studied hitherto only in two species of Tephritidae, one species of Platystomatidae, one species of Pallopteridae, and three species of Ulidiidae of the superfamily Tephritoidea. The split of the hypandrium from one structure into three (the hypandrium and two lateral sclerites) is traced. The hypandrial origin of the lateral sclerites of the hypandrial complex is shown based on the localization of muscle attachment sites. The subepandrial origin of the inner lobes of the surstyli is also confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of the study on the structure of scales in pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha performed in 1997 and 2011 in six reproduction regions on Sakhalin and Kuril islands are presented. The study revealed no statistically significant correlation between the fish body length and number of sclerites on scales, but the correlation between gain of the body length and width of intersclerite distance is significant. The latter finding allows for using the scales for studying the patterns of growth in pink salmon. Comparison of the scleritograms of the first year growth revealed statistically significant differences in the relative width of intercirculi distances in pink salmon from different reproduction regions. In all cases, the difference between the groups of sclerites characterizing fish growth in the sea coastal regions were more pronounced. The changes in configuration of the scleritogram fragments characterizing growth of the juvenile fish from the open waters of the Sea of Okhotsk suggest that isolation of the regions of active feeding of the fish of various local populations remains, to a certain extent, after migration from the sea coastal waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Boletín Científico Centro de Museos de Historia Natural is the property of Universidad de Caldas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)