Systematics and phylogenetic interpretation of a new bathyal spatangoid echinoid from the Eocene of Spain: Habanaster itzae nov. sp
Résumé
A new echinoid belonging to the genus Habanaster is described from the Western Pyrenees (Pamplona basin, Spain). Definition of Habanaster itzae nov. sp. is based on 16 well-preserved specimens that were collected from Lutetian levels (middle Eocene) of the Anotz Formation. These levels have been interpreted as deposited in low energy, hemipelagic conditions. Habanaster itzae nov. sp. is older than the single formerly known Caribbean species H. sanchezi that occurs in Priabonian (late Eocene) levels from the Consuelo and Jabaco formations. A phylogenetic analysis places Habanaster among the Ovulasteridae. The family is part of a clade, including also the Aeropsidae, that gathers micrasterid spatangoids adapted to offshore or bathyal muddy environments.