Müller, 1908
Diagnosis
A large species (>3mm). Carapace subrectangular in lateral aspect with ventral margin almost straight until it curves sharply but smoothly into the posterior margin (C. gaussi Habitus 1, C. gaussi Habitus 3). The medial gland small opening a little posteriorly of mid-length. Left asymmetrical gland opening at a third of height.
Male, first antenna (C. gaussi 3), "a" seta shorter than limb, the "b" and "d" setae are only slightly shorter than the "e" seta which has an armature of 44-49 pairs of short spines (C. gaussi 4),"b" seta also has an armature of a ridged pad and a few distally pointing spinules.
Remarks
Until Gooday, 1976 published his redescription of this species only ten specimens had been reported. Gooday recorded a further 43 from the Northeast Atlantic. Poulsen, 1973 erected a new genus, Gaussicia , in which he placed this species along with C. incisa (Conchoecia incisa) and C. dentata (Conchoecia dentata). However, he failed to designate a type species, and so technically the genus is invalid. C. gaussi is only likely to be confused with C. incisa (Conchoecia incisa) from which it is readily distinguished on the basis of its larger size, the relative smallness of the medial gland and the absence of anterior taper in the carapace's lateral aspect.
Distribution
The early records were predominantly from the Southern Hemisphere, but Gooday, 1976 recorded it from 11°-60°N in the Atlantic generally with a bathypelagic depth range of 800-2000m, but with one shallower record of 400-500m at 18°N. 1, 2, 3 (R.R.S. Discovery Map).
Type specimens
None designated, status of original specimen uncertain. Gooday, 1976 deposited dissected examples of his material at the British Museum (Natural History); BM(NH)1974.753 and 754.
Type locality
Original description based on a single male from 35°S 2°E.