Bispira polyomma sp. nov. is described. The taxon was recently found on the SW coast of The Netherlands (NE Atlantic), and could not be referred to as any previously described species of the genus Bispira. The area has been thoroughly investigated in the past, therefore we hypothesize the species is a new introduction to The Netherlands. The tubeworm is able to settle massively on all kinds of hard substrates, is eurythermal and able to withstand slight pollution, and therefore wider dispersal is a possibility to reckon with. For this reason we give a taxonomic species description even though the genus needs further revision. Presently the taxon has been observed only near Yerseke, a centre of shellfish culture and trade with a marina. The taxon was found in 2010. Subsequent surveys revealed a very dense population had developed in 2011, with the presence of small individuals in summer 2011 suggesting successful reproduction. |
