An identification key for Chondrichthyes egg cases of the Mediterranean and Black Sea

Chondrichthyan egg cases are important elements for species-specific identification and also provide a valuable aid in determining species spatial distribution, as well defining spawning areas. Considering the absence of general key Mediterranean Chondrichthyes, this work aims to fill gap by presenting based on morphological features case. The was developed primarily analysing fresh dissected from oviduct, collected seabed or found dried lying seashore, after confirmation DNA analysis. Original data were integrated with information scrutinized literature. In order improve identification, protocol standardized acquisition morpho-biometric meristic is provided pre-requisite appropriate use key. total width length included horns, when they not broken, parameters that best explain assignment case specific species.