taxonID	type	description	language	source
03CA8049FFABFFF13626FC3A5C3DFE46.taxon	description	(Figs. 2 - 3) Delailed by Kobayashi (1936), Ohfuchi (1937) and Blakemore (2012 a; 2013 a; 2013 b) (cf A. pingi described below). DNA data (Fig. 1) indicates a new sub-species as next described.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFABFFF73626FCE45B9CFD07.taxon	materials_examined	Material examined. NIBRIV 261262 an anomalous mature specimen from Naribunji, Ulleung-do (37 ̊ 30 ′ N 130 ̊ 52 ′ E); dissected and providing DNA sample w 54 (Appendix).	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFABFFF73626FCE45B9CFD07.taxon	etymology	Etymology. Named for its type locality on Ulleungdo, although there is no implication that it is an endemic, more likely it is introduced as with all the island’s other earthworms.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFABFFF73626FCE45B9CFD07.taxon	description	Description. Size 215 mm. Colour a darker brown pigmentation dorsally. First dorsal pore 12 / 13. Spermathecal pores in 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 each with pre-intersegmental hemispherical arcs (spermathecal papillae) anterior to interseg- 5 10 15 20 1 mm ments. Male pores superficial on 18 with disc-like GMs posterio-median to male pores. Setae about 17 - 18 between male pores. Septa 8 / 9 / 10 aborted. Last hearts in 13. Septal glands pronounced from 15 on dorsal blood vessel. Intestinal caeca simple.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFABFFF73626FCE45B9CFD07.taxon	discussion	Remarks. Otherwise complying within broad description of A. carnosus, the current specimen was originally noted by Blakemore (2013 a: 60) in a provisionally restor- ed A. pingi (Stephenson, 1925), the next available synonym of A. carnosus then A. kyamikius (Kobayashi, 1934) from Seoul. DNA data is unequivocal that A. carnosus naribunji is intermediate between A. carnosus carnosus from Japan and Korea and A. carnosus roki from both Incheon and Busan (see Blakemore and Lee, 2013, fig. 1). That no similar taxon is yet reported on GenBank provides supporting justification for its consideration as unique, albeit as a mostly molecular taxon (Appendix). Other A. carnosus carnosus proper specimens on Ulleungdo tended to be slightly smaller and paler and, significantly, either had no other GMs or had a pair of markings anterio-median to the male pores and thus mostly complied with Kobayashi’s (1936) Types I & I - the most common manifestation. Song & Paik’s (1969), “ Pheretima sp. 1 ” from Ulleungdo - that was named as A. baemsagolensis Hong & James, 2001 but is yet another synonym of A. carnosus - similarly has Kobayashi’s (1936) Types I & I form. In contrast, A. carnosus roki typically has Kobayashi’s (1936) Types II & I form - a combination that should now be excluded from A. carnosus carnosus (see Blakemore and Lee, 2013). For A. carnosus naribunji sub-sp. nov., the GMs comply with Kobayashi’s (1936) Types I & II markings that should similarly be considered for exclusion from A. carnosus. That is, those specimens with GMs posterio-median to male pores. It is important to note that this arrangement is particularly similar to those occurring near the male pores in A. pingi as describ- ed below and shown to be a synonym of A. carnosus carnosus proper. The issue now is defining the scope and relationships of all A. carnosus sub-species in Japan, Korea and adjacent countries as well as any transported specimens.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFADFFF93626FE1C595DF9A3.taxon	description	(Figs. 4 - 7) A partial annotated synonymy from (Blakemore, 2012 d) with discussion in Remarks.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFADFFF93626FE1C595DF9A3.taxon	description	1 mm Amynthas corticis (NZ & ROK) Nilgiris, India. Types?].	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFADFFF93626FE1C595DF9A3.taxon	description	? Perichaeta ijimae Rosa, 1891: 402. [Type locality Japan. Types Vienna?]. [Spermathecae adiverticulate in 5 / 6 / 7 / 8, cf A. gracilis, A. micronarius].	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFADFFF93626FE1C595DF9A3.taxon	description	[? Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925: 891 (cf A. carnosus) description below].? Pheretima indica var. cameroni Stephenson, 1932: 47, fig. 4. [From Cameron Highlands, Malaya. Type in London, possibly missing? Not found in BMNH pers. obs. RJB VI. 2013]. [A single poorly preserved specimen with spermathecae in 5 / 6 - 8 / 9 no nephridia on ducts; no markings - probable syn. nov. of corticis].? Pheretima sheni Chen, 1935: 38. [From Hong Kong, eight specimens three of them aclitellate and all lacking spermathecae. Type described in the Museum of Fan Institute of Biology, Peiping (Beijing) but also claimed in US National Museum]. [Cf Amynthas robustus, A. illotus].? Pheretima directa Chen, 1935: 47. [From Hong Kong; three specimens, the type described in the Museum of Fan Institute of Biology, Peiping but also claimed in US National Museum: 20183]. [Because some genital markings are lateral to the male pores it is possible that this is a valid species but cf A. hatomajimensis as described below].	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFADFFF93626FE1C595DF9A3.taxon	description	August 2013 BLAKEMORE-HISTORICAL EARTHWORM TYPES 107 spermathecae are adiverticulate and GMs only on 18, exactly as he shows for his subsequent redescription of Ph. divergens but caeca are simple and smooth. Cf A. carnosus as an adiverticulate morph?].	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFADFFF93626FE1C595DF9A3.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Amynthas with four pairs of spermathecal pores ca. 0.3 body circumference apart in furrows 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 [all, or just posterior pair (? or anterior pair) rarely lacking]; genital markings small paired and variable near spermathecal and male pores, often widely paired. Intestinal caeca simple with smooth margins (or incised with age in older specimens cf A. divergens?) originating near segment 27. Prostates often aborted, sometimes present. Parthenogenetic and parasitized morphs common (eg lacking prostate glands and / or with partially or wholly aborted or adiverticulate spermathecae).	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFADFFF93626FE1C595DF9A3.taxon	distribution	Distribution. According to Gates (1972) its synonym occurrence is “ everywhere, including Europe ”. It is the most widely distributed of the allochthonous species of the pheretimoid group, having been recorded from temperate and tropical regions throughout the world.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFADFFF93626FE1C595DF9A3.taxon	discussion	Remarks. Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) type-locality was in Oahu and it was also from Hawaii that Beddard (1900: 415) claimed “ Amyntas peregrinus Fletcher ” [= A. peregrinus (Fletcher, 1896 / 7) originally from Sydney] and placed in synonymy his own P. molokaiensis Beddard, 1896 that seems indistinguishable from his subsequent description (Beddard, 1900: 416) of “ Amyntas heterochaeta Mich. ” (sic) [= Amynthas heterochaetus (Michaelsen, 1891)] from there. These four taxa are identified as having spermathecal pores in 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 and either having or lacking posterior GMs and prostate glands and have since been placed under A. corticis. Their superficial male pores and lack of copulatory sacs qualifies them for Amynthas and, moreover, they thus comply within the range of characters allowed for in Ohfuchi’s (1937: 42) detailed account of Pheretima heteropoda (Goto and Hatai, 1899) that should also be considered at least a partial synonym due to his “ variations ” with many arrangements, including total absence, of anterior GMs (Ohfuchi, 1937: text-figs. 5, 6). This situation may be compared to Blakemore (2013 a: fig. 2) where anterior markings in an A. corticis are present or unilaterally absent making use of this distinction for taxa separation irrelevant. Ohfuchi (1937: 108) was inconsistent when he described prior P. nipponica (Beddard, 1893) that seems indistinguishable from his A. heteropoda (Goto & Hatai, 1899) since he claimed both lacked markings around male pores - the only difference was in length of spermathecal diverticula, but these he described as highly variable in P. nipponica. Thus, Ohfuchi’s concept of P. heteropoda should have been subsumed under P. nipponica. All these taxa are now included in A. corticis as indicated by Easton (1981) and remain so unless proven otherwise, except perhaps for P. divergens (Michaelsen, 1892) with its serrate caeca. Michaelsen (1900: 264, 314 - 317) redescribed his Pheretima divergens with possible synonyms P. fuscata, campestris, kamakurensis, parvula, heteropoda, obscura, scholastica, decimpapillata, flavescens, producta, and micronaria - all by Goto & Hatai (1898) and all from Japan (and all ignored by Ohfuchi, 1937!); and all but the latter one, at least, doubtfully separate, even to this day. Ohfuchi (1937: 100, text-fig. 23, 3 - 5) differentiated his specimens of Pheretima divergens (Michaelsen, 1892) from other taxa due to their serrate (or at least deeply indented) intestinal caecal ventra. On this latter basis alone the taxon Amynthas divergens is apparently separable from both A. corticis and A. diffringens, as well as from A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) which Ohfuchi (1937: 56; text-fig. 9) also describes in some detail (he retained it because he found it to have markings around the male pores, as in his A. divergens, but to lack the serrate caeca). Gates (1972) kept P. divergens in synonymy of P. diffringens, although Ohfuchi’s (1937: 67 - 108) detailed redescription showed divergens to have great variation in GMs and wide distribution in Japan. It is likely this taxon, herein restored, also occurs in Korea (and elsewhere?) either as a native or an introduction. A more complete descriptions of A. corticis, its synonymy, distribution and bibliography are found in Blakemore (2012 d; 2013 a; 2013 b) where some DNA data are also presented (but unfortunately not from historical primary types). Korean specimens providing DNA samples WM 9, WO 4, WO 5, WO 6 and WO 56 (from Jeju) all had mega BLAST agreement of 100 % along with other A. corticis specimens from Biwa (JET- 120 - 121) and Mishima (JET 138 - 139) in Japan. These differed substantially from other specimens identified as “ A. corticis ” or “ A. cf. heteropodus ” that provided DNA samples w 59 (from Incheon), WM 7 from NZ plus other specimens from Biwa (JET- 122 - 123) and Mishima (JET 140 - 141) in Japan (in Appendix but without repeats). There seems to be at least two genetically distinct A. corticis lineages sharing the same name (Fig. 1). Further work is required to resolve this issue of identity of the two groups under the taxonomic Principal of Priority. Samples providing DNA codes JET 153 - 154 from NSW Australia that I tentatively labeled as A. cf. corticis differ substantially and are most likely closer related to A. gracilis (Kinberg, 1867); it is a small concern that the single specimen (Tokyo An- 477) provided the two samples that gave slightly different results from PCR analysis (Fig. 1; Appendix).	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA3FFFE358DFBBD58FFFAE1.taxon	description	(Figs. 8 - 10)	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA3FFFE358DFBBD58FFFAE1.taxon	description	“ Body consisting of about 86 rings, which are more distinct at the two extremities than in the centre. The 11 or 12 rings at each end, have an acute ridge or keel in the centre; those of the middle portion of the body have the keel flattened. The body of the rings is finely striated. Setae short, of a dark colour at the posterior extremity, rather distant from each other. In the centre of the body and at the anterior extremity they appear (in the specimen from which this description was drawn up) retracted, leaving only a mark where they are situated. The first 7 or 8 rings, at the anterior extremity, are strongly rugose or wrinkled. Length from 1 inch and 9 lines to 3 inches. Hab. High ground at St. Helena, J. C. Melliss, Esq. ”]. [Type locality St Helena. Type in British Museum: BMNH 1869: 6: 16: 5. Held incertae sedis by Michaelsen (1900: 518) with which I now concur]. Pheretima divergens var. yunnanensis Stephenson, 1912: 274. [Type locality: Tengyueh, Yunnan; type in Indian Museum according to Gates (1939: 430 - 431) and “ quite clearly ” a synonym of P. diffringens hence its inclusion here, now questionable]. Note. Gates (1939: 340) also inspected Pheretima barbadensis BMNH 1904: 10.5.1219.1228 from Hong Kong that he later (1939: 446, 454) said also contained specimens of P. hawayana and P. morrisi; Pheretima morrisi 1904: 10.5.453 also from Hong Kong that he also later listed (1939: 446, 454) as containing P. hawayana!; from US National Museum Pheretima corrugata Chen, 1931 (part. - a paratype from Szechuan inspected by Gates, 1939: 340, not holotype). Therefore the name is debatably a junior synonym, although the paratype was “ rather obviously to be referred to P. diffringens ”.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA3FFFE358DFBBD58FFFAE1.taxon	materials_examined	Material examined. Types in Natural History Museum, London: BMNH 1869: 1: 2: 1, inspected by RJB 24. IV. 2012 and 17 - 20. VI. 2013 compared to Baird (1869 a) “ Description of a new species of earth-worm (Megascolex diffringens) found in North Wales ”. Syntypes labeled: “ 1869. 1.2.1 TYPE Plas Machynlleth Montgomeryshire, N. Wales ”. The jar (not original) contained nine mature specimens (four previously dissected dorsally), one juvenile and three portions; all were in good condition, flexible but rather macerated. The largest specimen was figured and is redescribed in detail here. Baird (1869 b: 387) in “ Additonal remarks on the Megascolex diffringens ” had specimens sent from Lady Cullum’s hothouse at Hardwick House near Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk where the gardener says it resided for about 14 years although for 20 years he knew it from Glevering Hall near Woodbridge, Suffolk - these latter two localities unconfirmed and material not located. Also Megascolex sanctae - helenae (sic) Baird “ 1869.6. 16.5 TYPE Island of St Helena I. C. Melliss Esq. ” a single brittle subadult (inspected).	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA3FFFE358DFBBD58FFFAE1.taxon	distribution	Distribution. From hothouses in Wales and possibly England from original descriptions, and from Japan and probably Korea from subsequent descriptions of a (partial?) synonym A. heteropodus (Goto & Hatai, 1899). Original description (in full). Length 4 - 5 inches (100 - 125 mm) and “ 3 lines in circumference ” [secondary annulations], with 104 - 105 segments. Lives in compost, nocturnal wanderer, very active when disturbed and readily breaks into fragments (hence its name). Clitellum from 14. Setae about 60 per segment. Darkly pigmented dorsum and pale ventrum.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA3FFFE358DFBBD58FFFAE1.taxon	description	Redescription of Syntypes. Longest complete specimen 120 mm (others smaller). Prostomium open epilobous. First dorsal pore in 11 / 12 (a non-funtional dot in 10 / 11). Setae fewer in anterior ventrum but more numerous posteriorly, numbering approximately 40 on 10 and ca. 56 on 20. Spermathecal pores in 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9. Often with smaller ancilliary markings in 6 - 8 just prior (anterio-median) to spermathecal pores as seen in several specimens. Other GMs mostly widely paired papillae, presetal in 7 - 9 (in five of nine specimens), in 7 & 8 in two (one with other markings behind the male pores, the other without these), just in 8 in another, and indeterminate in the final specimen. Some variability manifest, with some markings missing. Male pores superficial with approximately 14 setae intervening (GMs present behind male pores as noted in one specimen). Internally septa to 7 / 8 are thin, 8 / 9 is thick but incomplete to base of gizzard, or absent in some specimens; 8 / 9 is aborted. Spermathecae as figured in 6 - 9. Glands associated with GMs. Holandric with seminal vesicles in 11 & 12. Ovaries in 13; ovisacs not seen. Last hearts in 13. Intestine commences in 14 in some, but wider in 15 or 16 in other specimens; intestinal caeca are simple from 27. Prostates with racemose glands on 18 lhs in two specimens but mostly the glands absent and only duct present.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA3FFFE358DFBBD58FFFAE1.taxon	discussion	Remarks. Amynthas diffringens (Baird, 1869) was first put under A. corticis (Kinberg, 1876) (misspelt as “ corticus ”) by Easton (1981: 49) for which he has synonymy of: “ diffringens Baird, 1869: 40; (syn. divergens, heterochaeta, heteropoda, indica, nipponica, oyamai, tajaroensis [sic, lapsus tajiroensis],? torii) Gates, 1972 c: 18 ”; several other synonyms now probable (see Blakemore, 2012 d). Also claimed as “ syn. nov. ” of corticis by Easton (1982: 726) and by Sims & Gerard (1985). Amynthas corticis is a widely distributed cosmopolitan species-complex (eg by Blakemore, 2003: 14, 2012 d) having accrued a large number of synonyms. The problem is that the extant type of A. corticis from Hawaii is an immature form. Thus the definition is somewhat vague and, in its broadest definitions at least, it encompassed earlier A. diffringens definitions. Here the redescription of the syntypes allows a more precise characterization of A. diffringens and its resurrection is proposed based mainly on its greater number of genital markings anteriorly, especially those in front of spermathecal pores (and fewer, or none, near the male pores) compared to what is most often found in a A. corticis that is seemingly now restricted in its definition to exclude these markings anteriorly of spermathecal pores (although they may occur posteriorly to spermathecal pores as in specimen NIBRIV 249906 providing DNA WO 4). It should be noted that A. corticis often has markings near the male pores and that the male pores may be entirely missing with only the marking remaining. Related to this is the usual absence of the glandular portion of the prostate, if not deletion of the entire organ. Specimens that are degraded or immature require DNA to determine their identity. Since no specimens were retrieved from the UK type-locality, the task now is to find live specimens from the unknown original Asian homeland agreeing with A. diffringens and to extract DNA to unambiguously define boundaries of this taxon. Those from Fukuura, Japan described by Ohfuchi (1937: 45) are perhaps closest thus far known. Ohfuchi (1937) did not consider and was probably unaware of P. diffringens when he produced his detailed accounts - although his associate Kobayashi (1938) knew of diffringens and included Ohfuchi’s nipponica in synonymy (see its synonymy above). However, Ofushi’s description of P. heteropoda (Goto & Hatai, 1899) seems to overlap the current redescription of the types since he showed (Ohfuchi, 1937: text-fig. 4 B; 5 A’ - F’) GMs preceding some or all the spermathecal pores as well as the presence or absence of prostate glands (Ohfuchi, 1937: text-fig 7 A). Thus his concept of Amynthas heteropodus should go partly under A. corticis and partly under A. diffringens as currently defined herein. The present description of A. diffringens also compares to those of other earlier workers, especially Kobayashi (1938: 158), Gates (1972, 1982) and Chen (1959: 9) that similarly overlap somewhat what has since been accepted as A. corticis s. lato.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFFE358FF87E5C86FE46.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Length 73 - 94 mm by 3 - 4.5 mm with 75 - 93 segments. Spermathecal pores in 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9. GM in a cross-shape internal to, above and below male pores on 18, plus another pair anteriomedian and postsetally on 18. Intestinal caeca simple in 26.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFFE358FF87E5C86FE46.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Hatoma-jima island, Ryukus. Collected 1 st April, 1936.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFFE358FF87E5C86FE46.taxon	discussion	Remarks. Said to resemble A. pingi its lack of spermathecal papillae and cross-shaped GMs indicate its propable separation from both A. corticis / diffringens and A. carnosus / pingi although combined as a possible synonym of A. corticis by Easton (1981: 49 - 50). Now separated is Metaphire yamadai (Hatai, 1930) that has spermathecae in 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 and possibly includes A. pectiniferus (Michaelsen, 1931) both of which Gates (1935; 1939) implicated in P. pingi as discussed in Blakemore (2012 a). However, similar taxa now are A. hongkongensis (Michaelsen, 1910) from China and A. cruxus Tsai & Shen in Tsai, Shen, Tsai and Lee, 2007: 357 from Taiwan that seem to belong to the A. corticis group and similar to current Incheon specimens of A. corticis and so these taxa should be reevaluated.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFE33628FCD95C27FE06.taxon	description	(Fig. 11)	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFE33628FCD95C27FE06.taxon	description	? [Pheretima fornicata Gates, 1935: 9. [From “ Tatsienlu, Szechwan ” now called Kangding or Dardo (from the Tibetan name Darzedo) in the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in western Sichuan. Types in US Natl. Mus. no. 20099]; Chen, 1936: 296 (examined type); Gates, 1939: 434. [It lacks genital markings but is otherwise stated to be similar to P. hongkongensis that has only a pair of small marking immediately median to male pores on 18 - see fornicata description below].	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFE33628FCD95C27FE06.taxon	materials_examined	Material examined. London type a single previously dissected mature specimen, labeled: “ Pheretima pingi 1924.11.29.5 HOLOTYPE (sic) Nanking, China Don. Prof C. Ping ”; the sample jar contained a smaller vial containing a spermatheca (8 rhs) with a note “ Spermatheca from new Chinese worm (Prof. Ping) ” in Stephenson’s hand.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFE33628FCD95C27FE06.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Amynthas with spermathecal pores in 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 [as in A. corticis and A. carnosus cf A. pingi chungkingensis (Chen, 1936) with spermathecal pores in 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 now separated at species level]. Genital markings paired ventrally on 8, 9 and 18 (sometimes in 19 too) (as also in A. carnosus). Intestinal caeca simple from 27 (as in A. carnosus cf A. divergens).	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFE33628FCD95C27FE06.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Nanking, plus one (dubious?) specimen from Kuatun, Fukien at 3000 - 5000 ft (Gates, 1943) and another dubious report from Japan (see Blakemore, 2003). Abundant in Nanking constituting ~ 30 % of worms there [Stephenson (1931: 56) on information from Dr Chen] where it was found with Metaphire houlleti. Occurrence elsewhere now suspect. Lengths: Type 132 mm [for pingi Gates gave range as “ 140 - 340 mm ” which was to the higher end and should perhaps be revised for carnosus to 130 - 340 mm or, when A. fornicatus was included (see below) to 78 - 340 mm]. Width: ca. 4 - 9 mm. Segments: 126 or 127 in type. Colour: Dark slate dorsally, paler ventrally; clitellum darker; type bleached to a uniform buff in preservative (alcohol?). Prostomium: Broad closed epilobous. First dorsal pore: 11 / 12 or 12 / 13 (indeterminate in type as previously dissected, presumably by Stephenson, thus Gates could not be as categorical and gave range of 11 / 12 - 13 / 14). Setae: Usually 35 - 60 per segment (eg in the type I counted 36 on segment 5 and 60 on segment 12), those of segments 2 - 9 fewer but enlarged. Cf Gates (1939: 466) who had 17 - 66, but appears not to have included the count from the types. Clitellum: Annular 14 - 16, no setae visible. Male pores: On 18 on elliptical porophore. Female pores: Single on 14. Spermathecal pores: 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 ca, 0.3 circumference apart at posterior of translucent areas in 5 - 8. Cf. Gates (1939) pre-intersegmental in 5 - 8, this erroneous. Genital markings: Paired discs just median to lines of male and spermathecal pores (or sometimes shifted more ventrally) presetal on 8, 9 (and sometimes on 18 and 19 too?); typically with a presetal pair in 8 & 9 and a postsetal pair on 18. Septa: 5 / 6 - 7 / 8 strong, 8 / 9 lacking (in type or membranous in other specimens), 9 / 10 thin (or also lacking in other specimens), 10 / 11 and 11 / 12 considerable, 12 / 13 and thereafter thinning. Lymph glands dorsally on intersegments, large, paired from 15 in type (pers. obs.) or said to be from 19 by other workers. Dorsal blood vessel (dbv): Single. Hearts: 9,10 - 13; Gates (1939) says hearts in 10 are present except in type, this possibly wrong as from my inspection there were thin commissurals paired anteriorly in 10 just behind septum 9 / 10 and connecting directly to dorsal blood vessel (dbv), rather than posteriorly and connecting to dbv via thin constrictions that traverse posterior septa in 11 - 13. Gizzard: Single in 8 - 9. Calciferous glands: Absent; but oesophagus dilated and vascularized in type in 12 and 13 (pers. obs.). Intestine origin (caeca, typhlosole): In 15 and / or 16 (in type in 15 lhs and 16 rhs) sometimes given as from 19 by other workers; caeca simple smooth from 27; thin lamellar typhlosole present from after 27 (type pers. obs.). Nephridia: Meroic. Male organs: Testes / funnels in 10 and 11 in sacs; seminal vesicles large in 11 and 12; pseudovesicles paired in 13 in type (pers. obs.). Ovaries: In 13 as usual; ovisacs small in 14 in type (pers. obs.). Prostates: Racemose glands in 17 - 19, duct muscular. Spermathecae: Four pairs, the ampulla oval, duct almost as long; the diverticulum from near body wall reached to half the height of ampulla with slender stalk and wider seminal chamber. Several tubercules were described on spermathecal duct walls by Stephenson, and each spermatheca in the type has these, which are probably parasitic artefacts (as also suggested by Gates, 1939: 468). Gut contents: Silty soil and coarse leafy organic remains (type, pers. obs.).	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFA4FFE33628FCD95C27FE06.taxon	discussion	Remarks. Mistakes in Gates’ (1939) redefinition of Pheretima pingi are that the setal counts are much lower than occur in the actual type (see note below on Gates’ mistakes); he also mistook the septa and hearts and, quite importantly, provided genital markings that comply with A. carnosus and had spermathecal pores that he insisted were posterior in segments 5 - 8 but that are now shown to be in the intersegmental furrows of 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 in the types of both A. pingi and A. carnosus. The ‘ characteristic’ tubercules on the spermathecal ducts are not nephridial and probably are due merely to Monocystis infestation as was also suggested by Gates (1939: 468), thus removing any justification for retaining pingi separately from A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899). Thus its abundance in Nanking may be indicative of a possible endemic range for A. carnosus, as was suggested by Chen (1936: 275) and as concluded by Kobayashi (1936) from Korean work. Slight reticence on merging these taxa by Blakemore (2012 a; 2013 b) was due to supposed larger size in A. pingi - now known to be false as the type is only 132 mm long - and a later onset of intestine origin and septal glands, now also proven false. It is possible, nevertheless, that Amynthas chungkingensis with spermathecae in 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 (as found in two of Kobayashi’s 204 Korean specimens) be retained as a separate species, this dependent on access and inspection of its types now that A. pingi is resolved. Gates (1939: 469) compared his concept of A. pingi to Pheretima diffringens (cf. A. corticis proper) and differentiated it on these points: � Larger setal numbers (but he undercounted those in his concept of A. pingi). � Posterior location of first dorsal pore (now known to be irrelevant and overlapping). � Segmental location of spermathecal pores (now known to be mistaken). � Post-clitellar GMs (irrelevant when lack of markings permissible). � Presence of complete septum 8 / 9 (variable and also mistaken by Gates in the type). Gates (1939: 436) further claimed that his P. fornicata Gates, 1925 from Tatsienlu, Tibet was distinguished from P. hongkongensis Michaelsen, 1910, by the dorsal gap in the setal circle of segment 2 (hardly significant), the absence of genital markings (ditto), and the exclusion of the anterior seminal vesicles from the testis sac of segment 11 (ditto). Thus P. fornicata possibly qualifies for synonymy of P. hongkongensis but the question remains: how separate are these two taxa from A. pingi? The former, P. fornicata, complies with A. pingi except for its lack of genital markings, i. e. it is within the ambit of Kobayashi’s (1936) definition of A. carnosus. The latter, P. hongkongensis, also redescribed by Gates (1939: 446) from its type, differs mostly on its making near the male pores which is similar to but not explicit in Kobayashi’s description of A. carnosus. This issue is discussed further in the next section on ‘ Pheretima fornicata ’. The current lectotype of P. pingi (= A. carnosus) then, agrees morphologically with two Hikone, Shiga specimens from Japan that provided DNA samples (JET 112 - 114 | An- 460 - 461). The DNA of these Shiga specimens agrees (100 %) with that of Korean specimens from Jeju and the Korean mainland that provided DNA samples WO 34, WO 67, WO 32, WO 24, w 57 (Blakemore, 2013 a) and slightly less so (> 99 %) for w 37 and w 55 samples, respectively, from Geoman and Incheon specimens. These specimens differ inconsequentially from the description given above of ‘ P. pingi ’ further solidifying the definition of A. carnosus proper that now surely includes pingi as a junior synonym. DNA was not extractable from types of either A. carnosus nor of A. pingi. However, megaBLAST of both A. carnosus from Hikone (Tokyo An- 460 DNA JET- 112) and A. carnosus from Geoman (NIBR IV 261234 DNA w 37) comply 99 % with A. carnosus non-type specimens from Japan (eg GenBank AB 542452) and, moreover, both sequences also agree 99 % (656 / 658) with each other by BLASTn. Since the Hikone specimen resembles (and was first though to be) A. pingi, and the Geoman specimen is the same morphologically as the A. carnosus neotype, thus both specimens provide a de facto link uniting the neotype of A. carnosus with the lectotype of A. pingi to support their merger. Two anomalous specimens were described as “? Amynthas pingi ” from Ulleungdo (Blakemore, 2013 a: 60) and as “ A. carnosus ” from Incheon that provided DNA samples w 54 and w 56, respectively. While the Incheon specimen (along with a paratype from Busan) was named as Amynthas carnosus roki Blakemore, 2013 in a complementary paper in the current issue; the Ulleungdo specimen also deserving sub-specific status and is nominated above as A. carnosus naribunji. As part of this revision of A. carnosus, it may be noted its erstwhile synonym, A. fornicatus is sometimes maintained by some Chinese workers (eg Shen et al., 2003; Wang & Qiu, 2005; Sun et al., 2012) and it is now beholden on them to similarly clarify and define their taxonomic concepts. Nevertheless, I here briefly consider this taxon for clarity.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFB9FFE23626FF195C50F85C.taxon	description	(Figs. 12, 13)	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFB9FFE23626FF195C50F85C.taxon	description	Description. The original description in full in quotes with Gates’ (1939) amendments added in square braces that yet ignore Chen’s (1936) additional and contradictory data from reinspection of Gates’ types [data from Shen et al. (2003: tab. 1) bolded and also put in square braces but presumably not from types]: - “ PHERETIMA FORNICATA, n. sp. Length 78 to 90 mm [100 mm], diameter 4 to 6 mm. [Segments 90 - 105]. Setae: vi / 17 - 24 [16 - 26] [43 - 50], vii / 19 - 21 [19 - 23], viii / 18 - 23 [18 - 27] [42 - 52], [xii / 42 - 52], xvii / 13 - 14 [13 - 19], xviii / 9 - 14, xix / 12 - 15, [x, 56,] xx / 56, [xxv 45 - 55]; a wide dorsal gap in the setal circle of ii. First dorsal pore in 12 / 13 [with pore like marking in 11 / 12]. [Clitellum annular, 13 / 14 - 16 / 17]. Spermathecal pores minute and superficial, four pairs, in 5 / 6 - 8 / 9 [on tiny, grayish, transversely oval markings]. Male pores superficial, on circular to transversely oval, disk-shaped porophores [that are about 0.5 mm wide]. No genital markings. Septum 8 / 9 present but membranous [9 / 10 laking]. [Intestine from 15]. Intestinal caeca simple. [Hearts in 9 - 13 to ventral blood vessel, those in 10 and 11 within testis sac]. Testis sacs of x and xi unpaired and horseshoe-shaped. [Seminal vesicles are in 11 & 12, pseudovesicles in 13 and sometimes 14]. [Spermathecal duct as long as the ampulla, diverticulum longer than duct and ampulla]. Spermathecal diverticulum with a long, slender stalk and a spheroidal or asymmetrical seminal chamber. Type. - U. S. N. M no. 200099, from Tatsienlu, Tibet. Distinguished from P. hongkongensis by the gap in the setal circle of ii, the exclusion of the seminal vesicles of xi from the posterior testis sac, and the absence of genital markings. ” [None of these latter three characters seems sufficient justification for their separation in context with the current revisions of A. carnosus].	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
03CA8049FFB9FFE23626FF195C50F85C.taxon	discussion	Remarks. Chen (1936: 298) said P. fornicata “ is probably identical with P. pingi Steph. ” but Gates (1939: 436) responded tersely with “ P. fornicata is, on the contrary, clearly distinguished from P. pingi by the horseshoe-shaped testis sacs of x and xi. ” However, I think this is an unreliable character for separation and am obliged to combine them. Gates (1935) had implicated his fornicata as being closest to P. hongkongensis Michaelsen, 1910: 107 based on a probable immature and abnormal type that has only a pair of small marking immediately median to male pores on 18 which is all that separates it from A. carnosus as redescribed by Blakemore (2012 a) based on its neotype, and on Kobayashi’s (1936) excellent redescription in a publication that Gates (1939: 469) was clearly aware of but rejected for unsound reasons. Thus differences of P. fornicata from A. pingi (= A. carnosus) as reinspected here from its type, are mainly a lack of genital markings which is irrelevant for A. carnosus, and the uncertainty about spermathecal papillae. However, the name fornicata is complicit with the redescription of A. carnosus based on its neotype by Blakemore (2012 d) and on subsequent records: in particular it agrees with Kobayashi’s (1936) absent GMs form types I & I. Thus fornicata should probably be included in pingi as Chen suggested and both now seemingly merit inclusion in synonymy of the prior A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899). Another recently described taxon, Amynthas taiwumontis Shen et al. (2013) was compared by those authors to A. fornicatus. However its description appears to comply with A. carnosus having Kobayashi’s spermathecal pores type I or II and male pores type I, as redescribed by Blakemore (2012 a) (this overlooked despite my sending a copy to Dr Huei-Ping Shen) and thus this name too is another probable inclusion in the long synonym list of A. carnosus presented in the Abstract above. However, any of these specimens with spermathecal pores in 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 not on papillae / porophores described for A. carnosus probably equate more to A. corticis, as indeed does A. penpuensis Shen et al., 2003 as syn. nov. since all that currently separates it is its dorsal pores slightly more in advance (from 5 / 6 or 6 / 7 rather than from 11 / 12 abouts), this single character is doubtfully adequate for species level separation.	en	Blakemore, Robert J. (2013): Megascolex (Perichaeta) diffringens Baird, 1869 and Pheretima pingi Stephenson, 1925 types compared to the Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867) and A. carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899) species-groups (Oligochaeta: Megadrilacea: Megascolecidae). Journal of Species Research 2 (2): 99-126, DOI: 10.12651/JSR.2013.2.2.099, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12651/jsr.2013.2.2.099
