Taxonomic insights into Panopeus lacustris Desbonne (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura) based on morphological and molecular data

Abstract

The genus Panopeus belongs to the family Panopeidae and comprises a group of brachyuran crabs native to the American continent (except for P. africanus). However, taxonomic problems related to the presence of cryptic species have made it difficult to recognize the species and advance the biological knowledge of this group. Herein, a detailed description based on morphological and molecular data is provided for the species P. lacustris for the first time. Additionally, new morphological characters are proposed for the discrimination of the species. It is strongly suggested to increase the knowledge of the gene pool of the group, explore new morphological characters, and update the species descriptions to advance the group’s knowledge. This proposal will serve as a reference for future studies aimed at clarifying the taxonomic, conservation and ecological status of the species of Panopeus.