The anatomy and relationships of Emblanda emblematica (Hedley) (Mollusca: Mesogastropoda: Emblandidae n.fam.)

Abstract

A new monotypic family is created for Emblanda emblematica (Hedley), a minute rissoacean gastropod from south-eastern Australia. It is unique in the Rissoacea in possessing a triseriate radula and a penial sheath behind the hypobranchial gland. The alimentary canal is modified for specialized feeding on Foraminifera, especially the wide, simple oesophagus, the spacious stomach with an elongate posterior chamber and the very reduced crystalline style. The female has a glandular section of the oviduct behind the albumen gland, which is of importance in separating Emblanda from the related family, Barleeidae.