<i>Acetes sibogalis</i> sp. nov. (crustacea: decapoda, sergestidae) from Cochin Backwaters with a note on its impregnation

Abstract

A new species belonging to the sergestid genus <i>Acetes</i> H. Milne-Edwards obtained from Cochin backwaters and named <i>Acetes sibogalis</i> is described in detail. A closely allied species <i>Acetes sibogae</i> Hansen has been recorded by Nataraj {Rec. Indian Mus., 45 (1947), 139} from Quilon waters. Although the present species has some affinities to <i>A. sibogae</i>, there are some clear differences especially in the genital characters, in which a combination of features of the two species, <i>A. sibogae</i> and <i>A. australis</i>, is seen. These differences, which justify the creation of a new species, are discussed in comparison with the two species as well as other known species of the genus. A detailed study of an impregnated female is also included.