6 - Sphaeromatidae::“Cute As Buttons”

244 MICROCERBERIDEA • MICROCERBERIDAE
The microcerbcrideans were often classified with the Anthuridea, mainly
because of the similarity in body shape. Wagele (1983) however, has con­
vincingly demonstrated the asellotan affinities of the group.
Key to genera of Microcerberidae
1. MaxilHpedal palp articles 2 and 3 enlarged; basis of pereopods lacking
spinous process Yvesia
MaxilHpedal palp articles 2 and 3 not markedly enlarged; basis of
pereopods with spinous process Microcerberus
Microcerberus Karaman, 1933b
DIAGNOSIS MaxilHpedal palp articles 2 and 3 not enlarged. Articles 2 and 3
of antennal peduncle with spinous process. Basis of pereopods with spinous
process. Propodus of pereopod 2 with two denticulate proximal spines.
Microcerberus syrticus Kensley, 1984
Figure 105A-E
DIAGNOSIS (5 1.1 mm, 9 1.1 mm. Tergal lobes of pereonites 2—4 rounded.
Apical lobe of 6 pleopod 2 acute.
RECORDS Carrie Bow Cay, Belize, interstitial in intertidal sand bar.
REMARKS In addition to M. syrticus, six species of Microcerberus have been
recorded from the Caribbean area: M. littoralis Chappuis and Delamare De-
boutteville, 1956, from the Bahamas; M. minutus Coineau and Botosaneanu,
1973, from Cuba; M. mirabilis Chappuis and Delamare Deboutteville, 1956,
from the Bahamas; M. nunezi Coineau and Botosaneanu, 1973, from Cuba;
M. renaudi Chappuis and Delamare Deboutteville, 1956, from the Bahamas;
M. simplex Coineau and Botosaneanu, 1973, from Cuba. The reader is re­
ferred to the original descriptions for separation of the species.