A redescription of Acanthonyx petiverii H. Milne Edwards, 1834, and designation of a neotype for Acanthonyx simplex Dana, 1852 (Brachyura, Majidae)

Abstract

The identity of the problematic spider crab species, Acanthonyx simplex Dana, 1852, originally described from Hawaii and never reported since, is resolved. It is here shown to be identical to Acanthonyx petiverii H. Milne Edwards, 1834, a species that is widely distributed on both sides of the American continent. The supposed type locality of Acanthonyx simplex is almost certainly wrong. Acanthonyx petiverii, nevertheless, is a highly variable species and, as such, is redescribed in detail. To ensure a stable taxonomy for these species and the genus, a neotype for A. simplex is designated. © 2007 Koninklijke Brill NV.