Identification and distribution of the polychaete family, Eunicidae, off the Namibian south coast

Abstract

Abstract by author:

The polychaete family Eunicidae is well represented by a number of subfamilies and genera off the Namibian south coast. However, analysis of grab samples, from all De Beers Marine (Pty) Ltd seabed surveys, has concentrated on family level identification and little attention was given to further identification to subfamily and/or genus and/or species level. The aims of this study were to, a) clarify identification of Eunicidae by using available literature on polychaeta identification and compare those specimens in the De Beers Marine collections, and b) to assist future identification of benthic survey collections by taking high quality digital images of the polychaete species present, and c) to investigate the distribution of Eunicidae off the Namibian south coast and d) provide information towards greater understanding of the biodiversity of this region.. The digital images will contribute to a photo database on all infaunal species that will be used for educational purposes and serve as a quick reference guide for taxonomic purposes