CUNHA, S.; PIRES, R.; COATES, K.; TRAPIDO-ROSENTHAL, H.; COSTA, M.J; University of the Azores; University of the Azores; Bermuda Biological Station for Research; Bermuda Biological Station for Research; University of the Azores: A contribution to the phylogeny of Hermodice carunculata based on DNA sequences of nuclear and mitochondrial genes

The polychaete Hermodice carunculata is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of the Atlantic, including several island environments (Macaronesia, Bermuda, and the Caribbean). It has a considerable impact on tropical marine environments, where it feeds on corals to such an extent that in some areas it is considered a pest species. Its distinguishing features are the flesh-red caruncule and the brittle, calcareous setae, which liberate poison after penetrating the victim’s skin. It is for this latter trait that H. carunculata is commonly known as the fireworm. The taxonomic characterisation of the species is incomplete: two morphotypes apparently exist and H. carunculata is seldom confused with another species of the same family – Eurythoe complanata. Despite offering interesting study topics, molecular data available for this species or genus, or even family (Amphinomidae) are presently very scarce, consisting of a few ribosomal RNA and histone gene sequences for E. complanata (GenBank AY040685 – 09/04/02). In order to redress this paucity of molecular data, sequences of both a nuclear gene (that for 18S ribosomal RNA) and a mitochondrial gene (that for cytochrome c oxidase I) were obtained from Azorean specimens of H. carunculata. This was accomplished after DNA extraction, followed by PCR amplification of the chosen genes and cloning of the resulting PCR products. The sequences will be used to assess the relationship of H. carunculata within its family and phyla (sponsored by the Luso-American Foundation – Proj 322/2000).