Pontonides ankeri was originally described by Marin (2007) from Vietnam, where it was found on Cirrhipathes black whip corals. One key visible feature separating it from similar species of Pontonides is the presence of two wide light bands crossing the carapace posterior to the eyes and anterior of the abdomen. We have separated our specimens based on the presence of this banding, but there could be errors. Some of our specimens so banded were found on bushy branching black corals, which is more typical of some of the other species (e.g., P. unciger).
Some on bushy black corals.
Created 14 October 2021
Updated 1 May 2023