Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 November 2009
Despite the increase in the number of deep-sea studies, little is known about the hadal molluscs. For Brazil, only a few studies have treated the Septibranchia. This contribution is part of an effort to increase the knowledge of this group off the Brazilian coast, although it is focused only on the Campos Basin (22°S), State of Rio de Janeiro. Four species of the family Verticordiidae are recognized here. For Spinosipella tinga Simone & Cunha, 2008, the known depth distribution is extended to 1050 m. For Verticordia woodii Smith, 1885, previously reported from Brazil, the known distribution is extended southwards to the Campos Basin. Verticordia quadrata Smith, 1885, is reported from Brazil for the first time. A previously unknown species, Verticordia ouricuri sp. nov., is described. The presence of small spines, typically with a hexagonal column and a stellate structure at their distal end emerges as an additional taxonomic character for the verticordiids.