DNA-based diversity assessment reveals a new coral barnacle, Cantellius alveoporae sp. nov. (Balanomorpha: Pyrgomatidae) exclusively associated with the high latitude coral Alveopora japonica in the waters of southern Korea

A new coral barnacle species, Cantellius alveoporae sp. nov., has been discovered exclusively associated with the high-latitude coral Alveopora japonica in southern Korea. This specialist species was identified through DNA-based diversity assessment, including COI and 12S DNA sequencing, revealing it as distinct from previously described Cantellius euspinulosum and other cryptic species. The study also confirmed that C. euspinulosum, a generalist barnacle found across the Indo-Pacific, is morphologically and genetically distinct from its Korean counterpart. Additionally, the research identified at least five cryptic species within the C. euspinulosum complex, some of which are also specialists on specific coral genera. The findings highlight the importance of molecular studies in unraveling hidden biodiversity, particularly in marine ecosystems like the Ogasawara Islands.

Kim, H. K., Chan, B. K. K., Song, S. J., & Khim, J. S. (2021). DNA-based diversity assessment reveals a new coral barnacle, Cantellius alveoporae sp. nov. (Balanomorpha: Pyrgomatidae) exclusively associated with the high latitude coral Alveopora japonica in the waters of southern Korea. PeerJ, 9, e11284. Portico. https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.11284