Deconstructing the crustacean squat lobster genus

Unravelling the evolutionary history of taxa requires solid delimitation traits characterising these. This can be challenging especially in groups with a highly complex taxonomy. The squat lobster family Munididae contains more than 450 species distributed among 21 genera, Munida being most speciose (~300 species). Previous phylogenetic studies, based on small part diversity group, have suggested polyphyletic origins for and paraphyly Munididae. Here, we use an integrative approach multi-locus phylogenies (two mitochondrial three nuclear markers) paired 120 morphological characters, to resolve taxonomic relationships within Our study covers ~60% family’s known (over 800 specimens 291 belonging 19 genera collected from Atlantic, Indian Pacific oceans). Using this information, confirm validity proposing new ones cases where genetic analyses are compatible characters. Four well-defined munidid clades were recovered, suggesting that should erected currently recognised (three genus Agononida eleven Munida), Grimothea is resurrected. A key all presented. Molecular clock estimates ancestral biogeographic area reconstructions complement profiles suggest some explosive diversification during Cretaceous Palaeogene. Further anagenetic events narrow sympatry accounting changes distribution indicate limited dispersal capacity previously considered. unravels how may occur deep waters further highlights importance accurately delineating understanding factors driving evolution. ZooBank LSID: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:16A61C4A-8D96-4372-820F-8EBDF179B43C