Algebraic benchmark for prolate-oblate coexistence in nuclei

We present a symmetry-based approach for prolate-oblate and spherical-prolate-oblate shape coexistence, in the framework of the interacting boson model of nuclei. The proposed Hamiltonian conserves the SU(3) and $\overline{\rm SU(3)}$ symmetry for the prolate and oblate ground bands and the U(5) symmetry for selected spherical states. Analytic expressions for quadrupole moments and $E2$ rates involving these states are derived and isomeric states are identified by means of selection rules.