On the identity of Solecurtus scopula (Turton 1822) and the establishment of S. candidus (Brocchi 1814)

The genus Solecurtus in British and Irish waters is represented by two species S. scopula (Turton 1822) and S. candidus (Brocchi 1814). Solecurtus candidus (Brocchi) is conspecific with S. scopula sensu auct. when applied to Mediterranean and Lusitanian shells, and the synonymy presented in current checklists is revised. Solecurtus multistriatus (Scacchi 1835), S. albus de Blainville 1827, S. gallicus (Chenu 1843) and Adasius loscombeus Leach 1852 are all considered junior synonyms of S. scopula (Turton). Solecurtus scopula sensu auct. and the unavailable name S. candidus (Renier 1804) are replaced by S. candidus (Brocchi 1814),for which a lectotype is designated. Diagnoses and revised distributions are given; S. scopula ranges through the Mediterranean and European Atlantic north to Shetland; S. candidus ranges through the Mediterranean and European Atlantic north to the Celtic Sea.