An Antarctic flock under the Thorson's rule: Diversity and larval development of Antarctic Velutinidae (Mollusca: Gastropoda)
In most marine gastropods, the duration of the larval phase is a key feature, strongly influencing species distribution and persistence. Antarctic lineages, in agreement with Thorson's rule, generally show a short pelagic developmental phase (or lack it completely), with very few exceptions. Among them is the ascidian-feeding gastropod family Velutinidae, a quite understudied group.