Ophiotypa Koehler 1897

Genus Ophiotypa Koehler, 1897

Fig. 21M–P

Type species

Ophiotypa simplex Koehler, 1897.

Examined species

Ophiotypa simplex.

Oral GP

Absent.

Adradial GP

Cup-shaped convex, smaller than lateral arm plate to which it attaches. Articular structure a flat distal surface.

Abradial GP

Absent.

Oral shields

Not examined.

Radial shield

Single large plate above each arm base with two flat articular structures separated by a depression.

Remarks

Ophiotypa simplex is the only species in its genus and strongly paedomorphic. Its disc consists of few large plates. Pairs of radial shields appear to have been fused into a single large plate or are replaced by the radial primary plates functioning as radial shields, but individuals with a pair of plates on one or several radii have been observed (unpublished data, Stöhr & Martynov). The ventral disc is covered by the large oral shield, genital slits are not visible and the abGP appears to be absent.