Unlocking Mediterranean bryozoan diversity: seven new species unveiled after fixing a neotype for <i>Fenestrulina malusii</i> (Audouin & Savigny, 1826) (Cheilostomatida, Fenestrulinidae).

ABSTRACT: Fenestrulina malusii (Audouin & Savigny), the type species of Fenestrulina Jullien, is among the most widely reported bryozoans globally. Following the loss of the original type material, presumed Mediterranean in origin based on Savigny's depiction on Sargassum, we designate a neotype from a colony on deep Laminaria blades off Ustica Island (Tyrrhenian Sea). Additionally, seven new species are described from various habitats across the Mediterranean: F. cavernicola sp. nov., from the semi-dark and dark zones of a submarine cave in Lesvos Island (NE Aegean Sea); F. communis sp. nov., from beach-cast plastic near Palermo (NW Sicily); F. foveolata sp. nov., from Ile-Rousse Bank (Corsica); F. granulosa sp. nov.

SUBMITTER: Rosso A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12504986 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature