Systematics and palaeoecology of a new fossil limpet (Patellogastropoda: Pectinodontidae) from Miocene hydrocarbon seep deposits, East Coast Basin, North Island, New Zealand with an overview of known fossil seep pectinodontids

Abstract

'Serradonta' kimberleyae n. sp. is described from Miocene-age hydrocarbon seep deposits in northern Hawke's Bay, North Island, New Zealand. Pectinodontid limpets from fossil and modern hydrothermal vents and hydrocarbon seeps are reviewed and shell morphological distinctions are outlined between the two pectinodontid genera known from seeps: Bathyacmaea and Serradonta. It is suggested that the diagnosis of Bathyacmaea be emended to be more consistent with the shell morphology of the species currently included in it. The shell microstructure of 'Serradonta' kimberleyae is similar to that of modern pectinodontid shells from the Hikurangi margin seeps, which may be congeneric. The palaeoecology of the new Miocene species is found to be similar to other fossil vent-seep patellogastropods, as well as species of Pectinodontidae that inhabit these environments today.