New host for Dissodactylus crinitichelis (Decapoda, Pinnotheridae): first record of occurrence on Mellita quinquiesperforata (Echinodermata, Echinoidea)

Abstract

This paper presents the first report on the association between Dissodactylus crinitichelis Moreira, 1901 and Mellita quinquiesperforata (Leske, 1778) based on specimens found in Brazilian waters. Eighty-two specimens of sand dollars were collected and about 18 % harboured a total of 16 pea crabs. All crabs were found clinging underneath the oral surface of M. quinquiesperforata. The association found here suggests that the pinnotherid has a non-obligatory symbiotic association with M. quinquiesperforata.