Caspia valkanovi (Golikov & Starobogatov, 1966)

*1966 P. [yrgula] (Caspia) baeri [sic] valkanovi Golikov & Starobogatov: 354-355, fig. 1(9).

2006 Caspia valkanovi (Golikov & Starobogatov, 1966). - Kantor and Sysoev: 88, pl. 41, fig. N.

Status. Pontocaspian species, identity uncertain.

Type locality. Off Crimea, station 18, sample 173.

Distribution. Endemic to the Black Sea Basin.

Taxonomic notes. The identity and status of this subfossil taxon, described from phaseoline silt, are somewhat uncertain. The holotype illustrated in Kantor and Sysoev (2006) is poorly preserved and does not allow a proper assessment of its validity. The general shape and size are indicative of the genus Caspia and it looks like a variety that might even be a synonym of C. baerii . Furthermore, we are not entirely certain as to the stratigraphic age of the stratigraphic origin of this species. The phaseoline silt is a marine Holocene unit, yet it contains reworked Late Pleistocene Neoeuxinian (Pontocaspian) species (FW, pers. obs.).

Conservation status. Not assessed.