Basal articulation of the palps and ovigers in Antarctic Colossendeis (Pycnogonida; Colossendeidae)

Abstract

Selected sea spider specimens of Antarctic Colossendeis species collected during the Italica XIX cruise and the Polarstern cruise ANT XXIII/8 were examined to provide new information about the external and internal anatomy of the basal parts of the palps and ovigers. The presence and insertion of the muscle bands, as well as the arthrodial membrane are illustrated and discussed. The results obtained in this study show that the basal parts of the palps and ovigers have a similar internal structure. This is in agreement with the currently established 10-articled status for the ovigers (the basal element is not considered an article). Despite the currently established 10-articled status for the palps, our results suggest that the palp should be considered as being 9-articled.