The systematics and ecology of a new genus of sand beach isopod (Sphaeromatidae) from Kenya

Abstract
Quantitative sampling of sand beaches at Watamu, Kenya, has revealed the presence of a new eubranchiate sphaeromatid isopod. A detailed description of this isopod is given together with details of its vertical distribution, ecology, and behaviour. Sphaeromopsis amathitisgen. et sp. n. appears to be herbivorous and is fossorial in habit prefering fairly exposed, coarse grained beaches, where it occurs most abundantly at the MLWN level. Comparison is made with eurydicid isopods from the same habitat.