Leptochiton seishinmaruae Saito, 1997

(Figs. 17, 18)

Leptochiton seishinmaruae Saito 1997: 42, figs 1F, 6, pl. 1. fig 6.

Type material. Holotype (NSMT-Mo 70650)

Type locality. Japan, Suruga Bay, off Heda, 870–950 m.

Material examined. Philippines, Sulu Sea, R / V Vitjaz, cruise 54, stn 6721, 4000 m, 1 spm (ZISP 2377), BL 11.0 mm, 1973.

Distribution. Japan, Suruga Bay, and now Philippines, Sulu Sea, (950–4000 m). The Philippine specimen extends the distribution and depth of this species considerably.

Remarks. The studied specimen is the second find of this species. It is very similar to the holotype by having elongated, oval granules in the central areas of intermediate valves, and dorsal scales with two riblets. The specimen has five pores of aesthetes in each granule, nine gills arranged from valve VII to near the anus, a radula that is 2.8 mm long with 25 transverse rows of mature teeth. Its gut contained several foraminifers. This species belongs to the group of L. belknapi .