Genetic and geometric morphometric methods revealed a cryptic species of Ensis (Bivalvia: Pharidae) from the Southeastern Pacific coast.

JAVIER H. SIGNORELLI; BERENICE TROVANT; FEDERICO MÁRQUEZ

Congreso; XI CLAMA. Congreso Latinoamericano de Malacología; 2020

A new cryptic species of Ensis from the Southern Pacific coast of South America based on genetic and geometric morphometric methods is revealed. Ensis macha is one of the most important shellfish resources in South America. It was historically reported from San Matias gulf, Argentina in the Atlantic Ocean to the Peruvian coast in the Pacific. A recent study analyzed the intraspecific variation of this species along its distribution range and the genetic results indicated the presence of criptic diversity. Two evolutionary units were found: a Southern unit (from cold-temperate waters) and a Northern unit (from warm-temperate waters). Based on the type locality of E. macha, the Southern unit retain the name, whereas the Northern clade is formally recognized as a new species. In addition, new results based on geometric morphometrics supported the description of a new species for the Northern unit. The description of a new species of razor clam for the southeastern Pacific Ocean has important implications for future studies focused on fisheries management and biogeographical radiation of the group.