Superfamily SCAPULATAE Stiasny, 1921

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Introduction

The superfamily Scapulatae comprises two families, Rhizostomatidae and Stomolophidae. It is represented in Australian waters by a single species from the family Rhizostomatidae. Members of the Scapulatae are easily identified by the presence of conspicuous scapulets on the upper portions of the oral arms and separated subgenital cavities.

In Rhizostomidae, the oral arms are coalesced in the proximal portion only, there is no primary mouth opening, and the oral arms usually have a terminal club. In the Stomolophidae, the oral arms are coalesced throughout their entire length, there is a permanent primary mouth opening, and the oral arms are generally without terminal clubs.

Diagnosis

Dactyliophorae with eight pairs of scapulets on upper arms; with or without ring canal; with 16 radial canals all extending to umbrella margin; with four separated subgenital cavities.

Diagnosis References

Kramp, P.L. 1961. Synopsis of the medusae of the world. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 40: 1-469 [377]

History of changes