Abstract
The history, stllitus and composition of the genus Ammothea Leach, 1814 is discussed. The recent fragmentation into many genera and subgenera is rejeoted, and the earlier synonymy with Lecythorhynchus Böhm, 1879 is supported. The non-Antarctic species all have pinnate or molariform compound oviger spines, but on other grounds (number of scape segments, possession of auxiliary claws, and mid-dorsal tubercles ) are shown to be morphologically diverse. The genus is considered a single taxonomic entity. Ammothea uru n.sp. from North and South Islands of New Zealand, A. makara n.sp. from Makara near Wellington and the female of A. antipodensis are described. A. magniceps Thomson is clearly distinguished from A. australiensis Flynn. A key to species is provided.

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