Morphology and molecular identification of Heterocypris incongruens female from AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This study is concerned with screening new recordings of Heterocypris incongruens which belongs to the subfamily Cyprinotinae, a widely dispersed ostracod species, and can sustain its populations even in stressful environments such as ephemeral ponds and with low-quality foods such as debris. It is collected from the rainwater of the al-Ward Dam about 100 km from Al-Ula Governorate, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) of the valves of the investigated species is displayed. Among many traits that distinguish H. incongruens , are the more arched dorsal margin and the selvage concealing tiny tubercles on the frontal border of the right valve. In addition, the species’ sensory club Y of the antenna is two-segmented, and the coxa has six blunt teeth and three pilose sub-distal setae. DNA sequencing using 28S rRNA primer was done for molecular identification of H. incongruens . As concluded, the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and DNA sequencing confirm the identification of H. incongruens . This study provides the first comprehensive description of H. incongruens , including detailed illustrations of its valves and appendages, thus enhancing knowledge of Saudi Arabia’s poorly understood transient ostracods.