Multilocus phylogenetics of smooth clam shrimps (Branchiopoda, Laevicaudata)

Laevicaudatan branchiopods, also called ‘smooth clam shrimps’ or ’pea shrimps’, are rare crustaceans found exclusively in temporary, small freshwater bodies, which stay dry most of the year. Only 42 laevicaudatan species have been described so far, 90% belong to genus Lynceus. The first multilocus phylogeny group is provided here, based on 15 Lynceus from North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia New Caledonia using nine molecular markers (two mitochondrial seven nuclear genes, including newly designed primers). Genetic data suggest populations brachyurus Europe America represent a complex cryptic sister all other laevicaudatans. Species Thailand, Japan, Mongolia China formed distinct East Asian clade. A Southern Hemisphere (Gondwanaland) clade, composed Chilean, Australian Caledonian taxa, was weakly clustering with an African species. Relaxed clock analyses indicate Pangean origin Laevicaudata, further diversification due vicariance continued splitting continents. Rostrum characters, particularly relevant for systematics, were re-evaluated provide morphological evidence supporting clades. Our worldwide overview Laevicaudata evolution highlights that recent sampling Africa scarce, DNA efforts should focus Paralimnetis Lynceiopsis