Prionospio and Paraprionospio (Polychaeta: Siphonidae) from southern Australia

Abstract

Eight new species of prionospio are described from southern Australia: P. coorilla, P. kirrae, P. kulin, P. nirripa, P. pilkena, P. tatura, P. wambiri and P. yuriel, Prionospio steenstrupi Malmren is removed from the Australian fauna and P. dubia Day is recorded from Australia for the first time. A key is provided to all species of Prionospio known from southern Australia. The type species of Paraprionospio Caullery, P. pinnata (Ehlers) is redescribed from the type material and a lectotype designated. All Australian records of Paraprionospio pinnata are referred to a new species, P. coora. The distribution of species of Prionospio complex in south-eastern Australia is discussed and a distinct fauna is shown to be present on the continental shelf