In search of Marionina (Clitellata, Enchytraeidae): A taxonomic history of the genus and re-description of the type species Pachydrilus georgianus Michaelsen, 1888

Abstract

An approach towards a systematic revision of Marionina Michaelsen, 1890 is made through an historical overview of its nomenclature and definition, and a thorough characterization of its type species, the South Georgian marine littoral Pachydrilus georgianus Michaelsen, 1888. Relevant sections of early enchytraeid literature provide the background for appreciating the complex taxonomic history of the genus and giving a final word as to the controversial validity of its name, authority and date. Marionina in its current acceptation comprises about 100 nominal species, but the paper documents how, since its establishment, the genus has been an artificial assemblage of unrelated taxa, whose taxonomy cannot be sorted out (1) without finding new morphological characters and improving the standard of descriptions, and (2) without using a total evidence approach (morphology and molecules) within a phylogenetic framework. Confusion about the identity of the type species, originally briefly described and only partially figured, is unravelled upon examination of the syntypes available in Hamburg and Berlin. Since neither series proved to be monospecific, a lectotype is designated to assure correct and consistent application of the name in the future.