Hypotheses on Southern Ocean peracarid evolution and radiation (Crustacea, Malacostraca)

Abstract

A short summary of some the most important hypotheses on the evolution of Southern Ocean peracarid crustaceans and some of the potential reasons for the high biodiversity of this taxon is presented. Besides the knowledge of horizontal and vertical distribution patterns of Southern Ocean peracarids, the importance of the evolution of the notothenioid fishes on the evolution of the Peracarida is discussed. Key questions for a better understanding of evolutionary biology of Southern Ocean Peracarida are highlighted.