An annotated checklist of marine caridean and stenopodidean shrimps (Malacostraca: Decapoda) of the Caribbean coast of Panama

Abstract A checklist of caridean and stenopodidean shrimps of the Caribbean coast of Panama is presented, based on material collected during two local workshops (2005, 2008) as well as extensive sampling during 2006-2010. This material is augmented by an annotated list of previously recorded species, amounting to a total of 157 species, including 20 new records. Doubtful records are discussed. The current checklist is however considered relatively incomplete as older records could not always be verified and more taxa remain to be described. Despite the deficiencies of the present list, the Caribbean coastline of Panama is clearly one of the most species rich areas in the entire Atlantic Ocean for caridean shrimps.