New record, with a summary of the distribution and an appraisal of the conservation status of the stone crab <i>Myomenippe fornasinii</i> (Bianconi, 1851) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Menippidae) in Mozambique, Western Indian Ocean

Abstract Myomenippe fornasinii (Bianconi, 1851) is a poorly known species of brachyuran crab previously recorded from northern Australia. We provides the first genetically validated record of M. fornasinii from Mozambique, southwestern Indian Ocean. Morphological identification and DNA barcoding using the COI and 16S rRNA genes confirmed 100% genetic similarity with low intraspecific divergence (&amp;lt; 1%) with Australian populations. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed species boundaries and extended the known range of the species. These findings suggest a broader or underestimated range, possibly influenced by anthropogenic or natural dispersal, and highlight the ecological importance of estuarine habitats. The study reinforces the value of integrative taxonomy for conservation planning and biodiversity assessment in coastal ecosystems in the western Indian Ocean.