Redescription of the freshwater amphipod Austrochiltonia australis (Sayce) (Crustacea: Amphipoda, Chiltoniidae)

Abstract

Austrochiltonia is an abundant yet taxonomically poorly known freshwater amphipod genus. With two species recognised, they are inadequately defi ned yet widely identifi ed throughout southern Australian freshwater systems. In an effort towards providing a clear diagnosis of Austrochiltonia, its type species, A. australis, is re-described from type material. Two distinct male morphotypes are described for the fi rst time and morphological variability within the species is discussed.