Neoliomera moana, a new cavernicolous species of xanthid crab from the Marquesas Islands (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura)

Scientists have discovered Neoliomera moana, a new species of cavernicolous xanthid crab endemic to the Marquesas Islands, part of Te Henua Enata. This unique crab, characterized by its double crest on the chela palm and distinctive red-spotted carapace, was found in submarine caves at depths of 6–28 meters. Belonging to a group of six cristate species within the genus Liomerinae, this discovery highlights the Marquesas Islands' rich biodiversity and potential for harboring additional endemic marine life. The findings were based on hand-collected specimens, offering new insights into the region's subterranean ecosystems.

POUPIN, J., & STARMER, J. (2013). Neoliomera moana, a new cavernicolous species of xanthid crab from the Marquesas Islands (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura). Zootaxa, 3737(5). https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.3737.5.5