Diversity and Mitogenomics of Chloeia Species (Amphinomidae) from two Biodiversity Hotspots.
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
4-2025
Abstract
This research aims to enhance biodiversity inventories of marine fireworms in the genus Chloeia (Annelida: Amphinomidae), renowned for their vibrant colorations and defensive urticating calcareous chaetae. Chloeia species inhabit a wide range of oceanic environments, yet misidentifications and incomplete taxonomic assessments have led to unresolved questions regarding diversity and distribution. This study employs an integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphology, mitochondrial genome reconstruction, and phylogenetic analyses to resolve cases of the “cosmopolitan syndrome”, where species like Chloeia flava have been reported across multiple ocean basins, potentially due to misidentification. Furthermore, many Chloeia species remain unevaluated with modern integrative taxonomic methods. This research focuses on specimens collected from the Mozambique Channel (Madagascar) and the Sea of Bismarck (Papua New Guinea) to refine species records and improve taxonomic resolution. The outcomes will contribute to the development of mitogenomic species diagnostics workflow for Amphinomidae, enhancing taxonomic accuracy and supporting biodiversity conservation.
Recommended Citation
Mbithi, Bernard, "Diversity and Mitogenomics of Chloeia Species (Amphinomidae) from two Biodiversity Hotspots." (2025). Student Research Symposium 2025. 20.
https://digitalcommons.tamusa.edu/srs_2025/20
Comments
2:15-3:15 p.m.
BLH 262
Studies in Water Science & Ecology
Elizabeth Borda, Moderator