The Tardigrada Fauna of Mongolia (Central Asia) with a Description of Isohypsibius altai sp. nov. (Eutardigrada: Hypsibiidae)

 

Łukasz Kaczmarek1 and Łukasz Michalczyk2,*

 

1 Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, A. Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-614 Poznań, Poland

E-mail: kacztar@poczta.fm

 

2 Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland

E-mail: agnostic@poczta.fm

 

(Accpeted April 26, 2005)

 

*Present address: Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.

 

Łukasz Kaczmarek and Łukasz Michalczyk (2006) The Tardigrada fauna of Mongolia (Central Asia) with a description of Isohypsibius altai sp. nov. (Eutardigrada: Hypsibiidae).  Zoological Studies 45(1): xxx-xxx.   The Tardigrada fauna of Mongolia was analyzed on the basis of the historical literature, specimens collected in 1980 by A. Pacyna, and the present research (conducted in 2000).  In this paper, a list of 62 species known from Mongolia is given.  During the study, 15 species were identified as new to Mongolia and 6 as new to science.  Five of the new species (Itaquascon mongolicus Kaczmarek et al., Platicrista horribilis Kaczmarek and Michalczyk, Bryodelphax asiaticus Kaczmarek and Michalczyk, Isohypsibius archangajensis Kaczmarek and Michalczyk and Minibiotus weglarskae Michalczyk et al., 2005) are described in separate papers, and the 6th species, Isohypsibius altai sp. nov. is described herein.  It differs from the most-similar I. macrodactylus (Maucci) and I. irregibilis Biserov by the presence of only 2 macroplacoids in the pharynx and a narrower buccal tube.  It also differs from I. irregibilis by the presence of microplacoids and the lack of a projection on the upper part of the internal claws.  Diphascon sexbullatum Ito was recorded during the present research.  This is only the 2nd record of this species, and the 1st microphotographs of this species are provided in this paper.  A key is provided for determining the species currently reported from Mongolia. 

Key words: New species, New records, Taxonomy, Faunistics.

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Introduction

The phylum Tardigrada consists of small (50~1200 µm), bilaterally symmetrical micrometazoans commonly called “water bears”.  Tardigrada are divided into 3 classes: Heterotardigrada (armored), Eutardigrada (unarmored) and Mesotardigrada (with only 1 dubious species, Thermozodium esakii Rahm, known from Japanese thermal springs).  Currently, more than 800 terrestrial and/or freshwater species are known (McInnes 1994 and later descriptions).

Papers on Mongolian tardigrades were first published by Iharos (1965 1968 1973) and Maucci (1988).  These papers reported a total of 43 taxa, including: Echiniscus filamentosus mongoliensis Iharos and E. filamentosus f. aspinosa Iharos which are now considered synonyms of Echiniscus testudo (Doyére), and Macrobiotus mongolicus Maucci which was new to science.  Another species mentioned in Iharos (1973) as Hypsibius sp. was an unidentifiable exuvium that could have been either a Hypsibius or Diphascon.  In 1980, Prof. Anna Pacyna (Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland) collected environmental samples in the Altai Mountains, some of which were analyzed by Prof. Barbara Węglarska (Jagiellonian University), but the results of that investigation were never published.  We have reexamined this material using modern taxonomic methods.  An additional 75 moss and lichen samples were collected during a scientific expedition to Mongolia in 2000 in which the 1st author participated.

In this paper 62 species of Mongolian tardigrades are reported.  The list is based on earlier papers published by Iharos (1965 1968 1973) and Maucci (1988), slides made by Prof. Węglarska, and specimens found in the samples collected from northern Mongolia in 2000.  During the study, 15 species were identified as new records for Mongolia and 6 were new to science.  Five of the new species: Itaquascon mongolicus Kaczmarek et al., Platicrista horribilis Kaczmarek and Michalczyk, Bryodelphax asiaticus Kaczmarek and Michalczyk, Isohypsibius archangajensis Kaczmarek and Michalczyk, and Minibiotus weglarskae Michalczyk et al., 2005 were described in separate papers (see Kaczmarek and Michalczyk 2003 2004, Kaczmarek et al. 2002, Kaczmarek and Michalczyk 2004, Michalczyk et al. 2005).  The 6th new species, Isohypsibius altai sp. nov., was found in the collection of Prof. Węglarska, and is described in this paper.

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MATERIALS AND METHODS

During a scientific expedition to Mongolia in 2000, the 1st author collected 75 moss and lichen samples in the northern part of the country.  Samples were collected, prepared, and examined using standard methods (e.g., Dastych 1988).  Tardigrades found in Mongolia in 1980 and 2000 were identified using a key to the world Tardigrada fauna (Ramazzotti and Maucci 1983) and original papers.

All measurements of the new species are given in micrometers (µm).  Structures were measured only if their orientation was suitable.  Body length was measured from the anterior tip to the end of the body, not including the hind legs.  Buccal tube length and the level of the stylet support insertion point were measured according to Pilato (1981).  Buccal tube widths were measured as the external diameters at the level of the stylet support insertion point.  Lengths of the claw branches were measured from the base of the claw to the top of the branch, including accessory points.  The pt ratio is the ratio of the length of a given structure to the length of the buccal tube expressed as a percentage (Pilato 1981).  In the description of the holotype, the pt ratio is given after the value in micrometers in square brackets and italics ( [12.9] ).

Photomicrographs were made using a phase-contrast microscope (PCM; manufacturer, location) and a Nomarski differential interference contrast (DIC) microscope (give manufacturer, location).  All drawings were made using a camera lucida associated with the DIC microscope.

Measurements of I. macrodactylus (Maucci) and I. irregibilis Biserov were taken from the original descriptions (Maucci 1978, Biserov 1992).

Numbers of specimens and samples in which the specimens were found are given in parentheses after the elevation (in meters above sea level); e.g. (10/4) indicates 10 specimens found in 4 samples, and (2+5/3) indicates 2 specimens and 5 eggs found in 3 samples).

If the name of a researcher is not indicated, it means that those specimens were collected and prepared by Ł. Kaczmarek.

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RESULTS

List of species recorded in Mongolia.

a Species found during the present study as new to Mongolia.

b Species found in Mongolia and described as new to science.

 

Class Heterotardigrada Marcus

Order Echiniscoidea Marcus

Family Echiniscidae Thulin

Genus Bryodelphax Thulin

1. Bryodelphax asiaticus Kaczmarek and Michalczyk 2004 b

Localities in Mongolia: Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul National Park (NP), Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: mosses from rocks 1650 (2 specimens/1 sample), 1850 (3/1), 1900 m (3/1), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

Genus Cornechiniscus Maucci and Ramazzotti

2. Cornechiniscus cornutus (Richters)

Cornechiniscus cornutus (Richters): Maucci 1988.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Maucci 1988).

 

3. Cornechiniscus holmeni (Petersen)

Cornechiniscus holmeni (Petersen): Maucci 1988.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Maucci 1988).

 

4. Cornechiniscus lobatus (Ramazzotti)

Pseudechiniscus lobatus Ram.: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973); Gow-Ałtaj Ajmag (material from Prof. Węglarska’s collection).

 

Genus Echiniscus Schultze

5. Echiniscus baius Marcus

Echiniscus baius Marcus: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

6. Echiniscus blumi Richters a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., lichens and mosses from rocks 2300 (9/2), 2500 (6/2), 2600 m, (88/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Gow-Ałtaj Ajmag (material from Prof. Węglarska’s collection).

 

 

7. Echiniscus canadensis Murray

Echiniscus canadensis J. Murr.: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973); Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (1/1), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rocks 2400 m, (1/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Gow-Ałtaj Ajmag (material from Prof. Węglarska’s collection).

 

8. Echiniscus granulatus (Doyére)

Echiniscus granulatus Doy.: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973); Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: mosses from rocks 1700 (3/2), 1850 m elev., (16/1), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

9. Echiniscus merokensis Richters a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks 2200 (1/1), 2500 (3/1), 2800 m, (1/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

10. Echiniscus reticulatus Murray a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks 2500 m, (2/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

11. Echiniscus simba Marcus

Echiniscus simba Marcus: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

12. Echiniscus testudo (Doyére)

Echiniscus testudo Doy.: Iharos 1968; E. filamentosus mongoliensis Iharos, 1973: Iharos 1973; E. filamentosus f. aspinosa Iharos, 1973: Iharos 1973; E. testudo (Doy.): Maucci 1988.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973); Ömnogöw Ajmak (Maucci 1988); Gow-Ałtaj Ajmag (material from Prof. Węglarska’s collection).

 

13. Echiniscus trisetosus Cuénot

Echiniscus trisetosus Cuénot: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973); Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (2/1), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., lichen from rocks 2600 m, (70/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

14. Echiniscus wendti Richters

Echiniscus wendti Richt.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Ömnogöw Ajmak (Maucci 1988); Gow-Ałtaj Ajmag (material from Prof. Węglarska’s collection).

 

Genus Pseudechiniscus Thulin

15. Pseudechiniscus jiroveci Bartoš a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: mosses from stones, 1600 m, (7/2), 15 Jul. 2000; Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (1/1), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2200 (3/1), 2400 (2/1), 2500 (6/2), 2700 (4/1), 2800 m, (1/1) 19 Jul. 2000.

 

16. Pseudechiniscus suillus (Ehrenberg)

Pseudechiniscus suillus Ehrb.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

Genus: Testechiniscus Kristensen

17. Testechiniscus spitsbergensis (Scourfield)

Echiniscus spitsbergensis Scourf.: Maucci 1988.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Maucci 1988); Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (11/1), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2200 (1/1), 2500 (40/1), 2700 m, (19/2), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: mosses from rocks and soil 1650 (9/1), 1850 m, (10/2), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

Class Eutardigrada Marcus

Order Parachela Schuster et al.

Family Macrobiotidae Thulin

Genus Macrobiotus Schultze

18. Macrobiotus areolatus Murray

Macrobiotus areolatus J. Murr.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from a wet, shallow cave, 1600 m, (2 specimens + 1 egg/1 sample), 18 Jul. 2000.

 

19. Macrobiotus harmsworthi Murray a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: mosses from stones and soil, 1600 m, (45+3/4), 15 Jul. 2000; Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), lichen from lava, 1600 m, (5/1), Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2200 (111+12/7), 2400 (11+1/2), 2500 (11/1) 2700 (29+3/1), 2800 m, (13/2), 19 Jul. 2000, lichen from rock, 2700 m, (3+6/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: lichen from rocks 1850 m, (1/1), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from stone, 1700 (1/1), 1900 m, (4/1), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from fine gravel, 1950 m, (2/1), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from cut tree, 1550 m, (5/1), 30 Jul. 2000.

 

20. Macrobiotus hufelandi Schultze

Macrobiotus hufelandii C.A.S. Schultze: Iharos 1965; Macrobiotus hufelandii Schultze: Iharos 1968; Macrobiotus hufelandii Schultze: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Chentej Ajmak (Iharos 1968), Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968); Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973); Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: mosses and lichen from stones, soil and dead wood 1600 m, (28/4), 15 Jul. 2000; Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), mosses and lichens from lava, 1600 m, (166+5/5), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2200 (75+5/5), 2300 (29+6/2), 2400 (74+1/2), 2500 (52+2/2), 2700 (33+6/1), 2800 m, (14+4/1), 19 Jul. 2000, lichen from rocks, 2200 (6/1), 2600 m, (33+7/1), 19 Jul. 2000, moss from soil, 2200 (46), 2400 m, (30+1/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: mosses from dead wood and soil 1650 (1/1), 1850 m, (2/1), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from rocks, 1850 m, (1+1/1), 29 Jul. 2000; Bulgan Ajmak, valley near the city of Bugat, 23 km to the N of Bulgan, Larix sp. forest, 1300 m, moss from rock (3+6/1) 02 Aug. 2000.

 

21. Macrobiotus islandicus Richters

Macrobiotus islandicus Richt.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

22. Macrobiotus mongolicus Maucci b

Macrobiotus mongolicus sp. nov.: Maucci 1988.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Maucci 1988).

 

23. Macrobiotus montanus Murray a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: moss from dead wood, 1600 m, (1+1/1), 15 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: moss from soil 1850 m, (48/3), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

24. Macrobiotus richtersi Murray

Macrobiotus richtersi J. Murr.: Iharos 1965; Macrobiotus richtersi J. Murr.: Iharos 1968; Macrobiotus richtersi J. Murr.: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968); Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973); Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), mosses from lava, 1600 m, (6+1/2), 18 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: moss from soil, 1600 m, (1/1), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

25. Macrobiotus spectabilis Thulin a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from a wet, shallow cave, 1600 m, (70+2/1), 18 Jul. 2000.

 

26. Macrobiotus willardi Pilato a

Localities in Mongolia: Gow-Ałtaj Ajmag (material from Prof. Węglarska’s collection).

 

Genus Minibiotus Schuster

27. Minibiotus intermedius (Plate)

Macrobiotus intermedius Plate: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968); Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: moss and lichen from stone, 1600 m, (9/2), 15 Jul. 2000; Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (9/2), 18 Jul. 2000, near the top of volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from volcanic rubble, 1900 m, (2/1), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks and soil, 2400 (7+1/2), 2700 m, (33+4/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Bulgan Ajmak, valley near the city of Bugat, 23 km N of Bulgan, Larix sp. forest, 1300 m, moss from rocks (75+2/2) 02 Aug. 2000.

 

28. Minibiotus weglarskae Michalczyk, Kaczmarek and Claxton, 2005 b

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), mosses and lichen from lava, 1600 m, (6/3), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2200 (3/2), 2400 m, (21/1), 19 Jul. 2000, lichen from rocks, 2700 m, (40+2/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

Genus Murrayon Bertolani and Pilato

29. Murrayon hibernicus (Murray) a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rocks, 2700 m, (1/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

Genus Richtersius Pilato and Binda

30. Richtersius coronifer (Richters)

Macrobiotus coronifer Richt.: Iharos 1973; Adorybiotus coronifer (Richters): Maucci 1988.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973, Maucci 1988); Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2500 (27+18/1), 2700 ml, (12+3/2), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: moss from rock, 1650 (28+20/1), 1850 m, (10+2/1), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

Family Calohypsibiidae Pilato

Genus Calohypsibius Thulin

31. Calohypsibius ornatus (Richters)

Hypsibius ornatus Richt.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rocks, 2500 m, (1/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

Family Hypsibiidae Pilato

Genus Hypsibius Ehrenberg

32. Hypsibius convergens Urbanowicz

Hypsibius convergens Urb.: Iharos 1965; Hypsibius convergens Urb.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968); Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: moss from stone, 1600 m, (1/1), 15 Jul. 2000; Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (2/1), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2200 (8/1), 2800 m, (9/2), 19 Jul. 2000, lichen from rocks, 2300 m, (1/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugl Lake: moss from dead wood, 1650 m, (3/2), moss from soil, 1650 m, (1/1), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from cut tree, 1550 m, (1/1), 30 Jul. 2000.

 

33. Hypsibius dujardini (Doyére)

Hypsibius dujardini Doy.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: moss from soil, 1600 m, (3/1), 15 Jul. 2000; Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from a wet, shallow cave, 1600 m, (23/2), 21 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugl Lake: moss from soil, 1650 m, (2/1), moss from dead wood, 1650 m, (3/2), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

34. Hypsibius microps Thulin

Hypsibius microps Thul.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

35. Hypsibius novemcinctus Marcus

Hypsibius novemcinctus Marcus: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

36. Hypsibius pallidus Thulin

Hypsibius pallidus Thul.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rocks, 2800 m, (3/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugl Lake: moss from cut tree, 1550 m, (3/1), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from dead wood, 1550 m, (3/1), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

37. Hypsibius scabropygus Cuénot a

Localities in Mongolia: Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugl Lake: lichen from tree 1550 m, (2/1), 30 Jul. 2000.

 

38. Hypsibius sp. (exuvium)

Hypsibius sp.: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973).

 

Genus Isohypsibius Thulin

39. Isohypsibius altai Kaczmarek and Michalczyk sp. nov.

Description (Figs. 1-5)

Holotype: Body length 260.3 (Fig. 1).  Body transparent, eyes large, composed of small black dots. Cuticle smooth on dorsal and ventral sides of body.  Bucco-pharyngeal apparatus of Isohypsibius type (Figs 2, 4).  Mouth anteroventral.  Buccal tube 29.5 long and 3.8 [12.9] wide.  At end of buccal tube triangular apophyses present.  Stylet supports inserted on buccal tube at 19.5 [66.1].  Pharyngeal bulb spherical with 2 macroplacoids and microplacoid.  First macroplacoid 5.7 [19.3] long with central constriction, 2nd one 3.8 [12.9] long.  Microplacoid 1.4 [4.7] long.  Macroplacoid row 10.5 [35.6] long.  Placoid row 12.4 [42.0] long.  Claws of Isohypsibius type and very long (Figs. 3, 5).  External claws on leg I: primary branch (pb): 21.9, secondary branch (sb): 9.5, leg II: pb: 23.8, sb: 9.5, leg III: pb: 26.6, sb: 11.4, leg IV: pb: 31.4, sb: 14.3.  Primary branches of claws without accessory points.  Lunules absent but bases of claws expanded (Figs 3, 5).  Cuticular bars on 1st 3 pairs of legs present near base of claw (Fig. 1).  Eggs white, smooth, and deposited in exuvium.

Figs. 1-3.  Isohypsibius altai sp. nov.  (1) Habitus; (2) buccal apparatus; (3) claws of the 4th pair of legs (DIC).

Figs. 4, 5.  Isohypsibius altai sp. nov.  (4 ) Buccal apparatus; (5) claws of the 4th pair of legs.

 

Etymology

 

The name ‘altai’ refers to the name of the Altai Mts. in Mongolia where the species was found.

 

Material examined:

Holotype and 5 paratypes: Southern Mongolia, Altai Mts. 2500 m, leg. A. Pacyna. Specimens from the collection of Prof. Węglarska.

 

 

Additional material: One specimen in the simplex stage and 4 exuvia with eggs.

 

Type depositories: Holotype is deposited at the Zoological Museum of Jagiellonian University, Ingardena 6, 30-060 Kraków, Poland; 3 paratypes are preserved at the Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, A. Mickiewicz University, Poznań; 2 paratypes are preserved in the collection of Ł. Michalczyk (Jagiellonian University).

 

Differential diagnosis:

Isohypsibius altai sp. nov. is similar to I. macrodactylus and I. irregibilis by the length of the claws.  The new species differs from I. macrodactylus and I. irregibilis by the presence of only 2 macroplacoids in the pharynx and a generally narrower buccal tube (3.3~4.3 in I. altai sp. nov., about 4.0~6.0 in I. macrodactylus and 3.1~6.8 in I. irregibilis).  It also differs from I. irregibilis by the presence of microplacoids and the lack of a the projection in the upper part of the internal claws.

 

40. Isohypsibius archangajensis Kaczmarek and Michalczyk b

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from soil, 2200 m, (3/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

41. Isohypsibius mihelcici (Iharos)

Hypsibius mihelcici Iharos: Iharos 1965; Hypsibius mihelcici Iharos: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968); Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: mosses from soil, 1600 m, (2/2), 15 Jul. 2000; Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rock, 2200 (1/1), 2800 m, (4/2), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

42. Isohypsibius nodosus (Murray) a

Localities in Mongolia: Gow-Ałtaj Ajmag (material from Prof. Węglarska’s collection).

 

43. Isohypsibius sattleri (Richters)

Hypsibius bakonyiensis Iharos: Iharos 1965; Hypsibius bakonyiensis Iharos: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968); Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: mosses from stones, 1600 m, (3/2), 15 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: mosses from rocks and soil, 1850 m, (2/2), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from dead wood, 1650 m, (1/1), 29 Jul. 2000; Bulgan Ajmak, valley near the city of Bugat, 23 km N of Bulgan, Larix sp. forest, 1300 m, moss from rocks (1/1) 02 Aug. 2000.

 

 

44. Isohypsibius schaudinni (Richters)

Hypsibius schaudinni Richt.: Iharos 1968; Hypsibius schaudinni Richt.: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973).

 

45. Isohypsibius tuberculatus (Plate)

Hypsibius tuberculatus Plate: Iharos, 1965; Hypsibius tuberculatus Plate: Iharos, 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968).

 

Genus Thulinius Bertolani

46. Thulinius augusti (Murray)

Hypsibius augusti J. Murr.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

Remarks: The taxonomic status of Hypsibius augusti is still unclear (Bertolani et al. 1999, Nelson et al. 1999) and without examination of the material examined by Iharos, it is impossible to decide to which genus it should be attributed.  At this stage we have decided to attribute this species to the genus Thulinius, but future research is required on this matter.

 

Genus Astatumen Pilato

47. Astatumen ramazzotti (Iharos)

Itaquascon ramazzotti Iharos: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

This species is probably a synonym of A. trinacriae (Arcidiacono).

 

48. Astatumen trinacriae (Arcidiacono) a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (2/1), 18 Jul. 2000.

 

Genus Itaquascon Barros

49. Itaquascon mongolicus Kaczmarek, Michalczyk and Węglarska, 2002 b

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rock, 2500 m, (1/2), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

Genus Diphascon Plate

Subgenus Diphascon Pilato

50. Diphascon (D.) brevipes (Marcus)

Diphascon brevipes (Marcus): Maucci 1988.

Localities in Mongolia: Ömnogöw Ajmak (Maucci 1988).

 

51. Diphascon (D.) bullatum Murray

Hypsibius bullatus J. Murr.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

52. Diphascon (D.) pingue (Marcus)

Hypsibius pinguis Marcu: Iharos 1965; Hypsibius pinguis Marcus.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968); Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from a wet, shallow cave, 1600 m, (3/1), 21 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rock, 2200 (1/1), 2400 (4/1), 2800 m, (2/1), 19 Jul. 2000, moss from soil, 2400 m, (2/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: mosses from a cut tree, dead wood, and soil 1550 m, (30/4), 30 Jul. 2000, moss and lichen from soil, 1600 m, (19/2), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from soil, 1650 m, (9/1), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from dead wood, 1700 m, (5/1), 29 Jul. 2000.

 

53. Diphascon (D.) recamieri Richters

Hypsibius recamieri Richt.: Iharos 1965; Hypsibius recamieri Richt.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968).

 

54. Diphascon (D.) sexbullatum Ito (Figs. 6-12) a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmak, east slope of valley near the city of Cecerleg: mosses from stones, 1600 m, (1/1), 15 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: mosses from soil 1650 (4/1), 1850 m, (15/1), 29 Jul. 2000, moss from fine gravel, 1950 m, (2/1), 29 Jul. 2000.

This is a 2nd record of this species.  We also provide here for the very 1st time photomicrographs of the holotype of this species.

Figs 6, 7.  Diphascon sexbullatum;  habitus. (6 ) Specimen from Mongolia, found during the present research (DIC); (7) holotype (PCM).

Figs. 8-12.  Diphascon sexbullatum.  (8) Dorsal cuticle with gibbosities; (9, 10) buccal apparatus; (11, 12) claws of the 4th pair of legs (8, 10, and 12: holotype, PCM; 9 and 11: a specimen from Mongolia, found during the present research, DIC).

 

Subgenus Adropion Pilato

55. Diphascon (A.) belgicae Richters

Hypsibius belgicae Richt.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

56. Diphascon (A.) prosirostre Thulin

Hypsibius prosirostris Thul.: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rocks, 2500 (1/1), 2800 m, (1/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

57. Diphascon (A.) scoticum Murray

Hypsibius scoticus J. Murr: Iharos 1968.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968).

 

Genus Hebesuncus Pilato

58. Hebesuncus conjugens (Thulin) a

Localities in Mongolia: Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2800 m, (9/2), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

Genus Platicrista Pilato

59. Platicrista horribilis Kaczmarek and Michalczyk b

Localities in Mongolia: Archangaj Ajmag, Tehijn Cagan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2700 m, (3/2), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

Genus Ramazzottius Binda and Pilato

 

60. Ramazzottius oberhaeuseri (Doyére)

Hypsibius oberhaeuseri Doy.: Iharos 1968; Hypsibius oberhaeuseri Doy.: Iharos 1973.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1968); Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973); Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (2/1), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., moss from rock, 2600 m, (8/1), 19 Jul. 2000, lichen from rock, 2300 m, (3/1), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: lichens from tree, 1550 m, (4/2), 30 Jul. 2000, lichen from soil, 1600 m, (2/1), 29 Jul. 2000; Bulgan Ajmak, valley near the city of Bugat, 23 km N of Bulgan, Larix sp. forest, 1300 m, moss from rock (24/1) 02 Aug. 2000.

 

Order Apochela Schuster et al.

Family Milnesiidae Ramazzotti

Genus Milnesium Doyére

61. Milnesium cf. eurystomum Maucci a

Localities in Mongolia: Archangaj Ajmag, Tehijn Cagan Nuur NP: Tarbagataj Mts., mosses from rocks, 2800 m, (41/1), 19 Jul. 2000.

 

62. Milnesium tardigradum Doyére

Milnesium tardigradum Doy.: Iharos 1965; Milnesium tardigradum Doy.: Iharos 1968; Milnesium tardigradum Doy.: Iharos 1973; Milnesium tardigradum Doy.: Maucci 1988.

Localities in Mongolia: Töw Ajmak (Iharos 1965 1968); Ömnogöw Ajmak (Iharos 1973, Maucci 1988); Arhangaj Ajmag, Terchijn Cagaan Nuur NP: field of lava (with Larix sp. and Pinus sp. forest) near the dead volcano Chorgijn Togoo (Chorgo), moss from lava, 1600 m, (2/1), 18 Jul. 2000, Tarbagataj Mts., mosses and lichens from rocks, 2300 (5/2) 2500 (12/2), 2600 (4/1), 2800 (40/1), 2700 m, (2/2), 19 Jul. 2000; Chubsugul Ajmak, Chubsugul NP, Larix sp. forest near Chubsugul Lake: lichen from tree, 1550 m, (1/1), 30 Jul. 2000, moss from dead wood, 1650 m, (2/1), 29 Jul. 2000; Bulgan Ajmak, valley near the city of Bugat, 23 km N of Bulgan, Larix sp. forest, 1300 m, moss from rocks (4/1) 02 Aug. 2000.

 

A key to species reported from Mongolia (without Hypsibius/Diphascon exuvium found by Iharos (1973) and Echiniscus filamentosus mongoliensis and Echiniscus filamentosus f. aspinosa which are synonyms of Echiniscus testudo).

 

1. Dorsal side of body covered with cuticular plates, lateral cirrus A present .....……............. 2

- Dorsal side of body without plates, lateral cirrus A absent ..................................……......... 18

2. Pseudosegmental plate present ..............……………………………………………..…...... 3

- Pseudosegmental plate absent ........................................................................………............. 7

3. Cirri A in the shape of filaments ……………………………………………...…………… 4

-. Cirri A in the shape of short, thick cones …………………………………...………….. 5

4. Between scapular and median plate I 4 additional plates present ……………….....……..

................................................................................................... Pseudechiniscus jiroveci Bartoš

-. Additional plates absent ................................................ Pseudechiniscus suillus (Ehrenberg)

5. Besides cirri A, other lateral or dorsal filaments, spines, or teeth absent ………………… 6

-. Lateral filaments C and D, dorsal spine Dd, and teeth on the margin of pseudosegmental plate present …………………………………………...… Cornechiniscus holmeni (Petersen)

6. Posterior margin of pseudosegmental plate smooth, large triangular teeth absent from pair IV of legs……………………………………………….… Cornechiniscus cornutus (Richters)

-. Posterior margin of pseudosegmental plate with 2 lobes or teeth, large triangular teeth on pair IV of legs present ……………………………….. Cornechiniscus lobatus (Ramazzotti)

7. Median plates I and II not divided, incisions on terminal plate present ……...……….. 8

-. Median plates I and II divided, incisions on terminal plate absent ……………………….

……………………………..……. Bryodelphax asiaticus Kaczmarek and Michalczyk (in press)

8. Two rows of ventral plates absent ……………………………………………………...….. 9

-. Two rows of ventral plates present ………..…..... Testechiniscus spitsbergensis (Scourfield)

9. Lacking any other lateral or dorsal appendages than cirrus A …………………....…..… 10

-. Lateral or/and dorsal appendages other than cirrus A present ……….…………...….….. 11

10. Median plate III present, terminal plate facetted, smooth transverse band absent from anterior part of paired plates I and II ……….…………..…… Echiniscus reticulatus Murray

-. Median plate III absent, terminal plate not facetted, smooth transverse band present in anterior part of paired plates I and II ……….................………… Echiniscus wendti Richters

11. Dorsal appendages (spines and/or filaments) absent .................... Echiniscus baius Marcus

-. Dorsal appendages (spines and/or filaments) present ………………………………..…… 12

12. Lack of any other lateral appendages than cirrus A ……..... Echiniscus canadensis Murray

-. Lateral appendages other than cirrus A present …….................………………………….. 13

13. Appendages E present ………………………………………...………………………… 14

-. Appendages E absent or with very small difficult-to-see spine ………..…………….… 16

14. All lateral appendages as filaments ……………………………...…………………….. 15

-. Lateral appendages B, D, and E as spines …………………….…. Echiniscus simba Marcus

15. Appendage B absent, appendage D present …………...…. Echiniscus merokensis Richters

-. Appendage B present, appendage D absent ……........................ Echiniscus testudo (Doyére)

16. Appendages B present ……………………………………..……………………………. 17

-. Appendages B absent …………………………………..……... Echiniscus trisetosus Cuénot

17. Dorsal appendages C as filaments, spine E absent, external claws on IV pair of legs with 1~3 spurs ……………………………………………………..…..... Echiniscus blumi Richters

-. Dorsal appendages C as thick spines, very small spine E present, internal claws on pair IV of legs with spurs ………………………..……………..….… Echiniscus granulatus (Doyére)

18. Peribuccal and cephalic papillae absent …………………………….……….………….. 19

-. Peribuccal and cephalic papillae present ………………………………………………..... 61

19. Claws symmetrical; external and internal claws identically developed (of similar size and shape) ………………………………………………………………………..…………… 20

-. External and internal claws always more or less dissimilar in shape and/or size …………………...…………………………………………………………………………... 32

20. Thickness of buccal tube wall decreasing from posterior to anterior part ……….………....

……………………………………………………………..…. Richtersius coronifer (Richters)

-. Thickness of buccal tube wall not decreasing from posterior to anterior part …………..... 21

21. Peribuccal lamellae present, peribuccal papulae absent, stylet supports inserted at more than 73% of buccal tube length, buccal tube wide (> 12% of buccal tube length) …………….... 23

- Peribuccal lamellae absent, peribuccal papulae present, stylet supports inserted at 54% of buccal tube length, buccal tube narrow (≤ 6.8% of buccal tube length) ......................... 22

22. Cuticle smooth without pores ............................................... Minibiotus intermedius (Plate)

-. Cuticle with distinct pores ……………………...……………………...….............................. ............................................. Minibiotus weglarskae Michalczyk, Kaczmarek and Claxton, 2005

23. Claws of pullari type, cuticle with distinct areas of evident granulation on lateral side of body ……………………...……………………………..… Murrayon hibernicus (Murray)

Claws of hufelandi type, cuticle without granulations on lateral side of body ……….….. 24

24. Cuticle with pores ………………………………………….…………………………… 25

-. Cuticle without pores ……………………………………………………….…………….. 29

25. Pharynx with 2 macroplacoids …………………………………….……………………. 26

-. Pharynx with 3 macroplacoids …………………..………………….…………….………. 28

26. Microplacoid present ……………………………………………………………………. 27

-. Microplacoid absent …………………………..…………... Macrobiotus islandicus Richters

27. Eggs of hufelandi type with inverted goblet-shaped processes……………….…………….

…………………………………………………………..…… Macrobiotus hufelandi Schultze

-. Eggs of tenuis type with processes in the shape of truncated cones ……………....………….

……………………………………………………………..... Macrobiotus mongolicus Maucci

28. Pores present on entire cuticle, egg surface between processes with areolation, processes in the shape of truncated cones …..…………….……………… Macrobiotus richtersi Murray

-. Pores present only on legs, egg surface between processes without areolation, processes in the shape of flexible cones ……………………………………….. Macrobiotus willardi Pilato

29. Pharynx with 2 macroplacoids ………...…...…………..… Macrobiotus spectabilis Thulin

-. Pharynx with 3 macroplacoids …………………..………………….…………….………. 30

30. Microplacoid present, egg surface between processes without areolation, macroplacoids rounded ……...................................................................................................................……. 31

-. Microplacoid absent, egg surface between processes with areolation, macroplacoids elongated ……………………………………………..……….. Macrobiotus areolatus Murray

31. Egg processes in shape of cones with reticular design on surface, surface between processes without punctuation ………………...………..… Macrobiotus harmsworthi Murray

-. Egg processes in the shape of small hemispheres, surface between processes with punctuations which form a reticular design …..………….……Macrobiotus montanus Murray

32. Claws of Calohypsibius type, less then 5 µm long, dorsal side of the body covered by spines arranged in transverse bands …………................….. Calohypsibius ornatus (Richters)

-. Claws of different type, more then 5 µm long, dorsal side of body with tubercles/gibbosities .................................................................................................................................................. 33

33. Claws of Isohypsibius type, external and internal claws similar in shape and usually differing in size …………………………………………….....………………..…………. 34

-. Claws of different type, external and internal claws differing in size and shape ……..….. 41

34. Twelve peribuccal lamellae present, 3rd band of teeth present, freshwater species …..

………………………………………….…………..………..……. Thulinius augusti (Murray)

-. Twelve peribuccal lamellae absent, 3rd band of teeth absent, terrestrial species ..….. 35

35. Dorsal cuticle without gibbosities ……………………………………….……………… 36

-. Dorsal cuticle with gibbosities arranged in transverse rows ………………...……..……. 38

36. Cuticle smooth, without undulations ………………………….…………………….. 37

-. Cuticle on dorsal side of body with rounded depressions forming reticular design and with 14~16 undulations ………………… Isohypsibius archangajensis Kaczmarek and Michalczyk

37. Pharynx with 3 macroplacoids, claws on pair IV of legs ~20 µm long ……………….

………………………………..………………..………….. Isohypsibius schaudinni (Richters)

-. Pharynx with 2 macroplacoids, claws on pair IV of legs 30.4~42.8 µm long ………………..

………………………………………………………………...…… Isohypsibius altai sp. nov.

38. All rows containing even number of gibbosities ……………………….………………..39

-. Some rows containing odd number of gibbosities …………………………………...… 40

39. Gibbosities arranged in 7 transverse rows: rows 1~5 with 6 gibbosities, rows 6 and 7 with 4 ……………………………………………………..……. Isohypsibius nodosus (Murray)

-. Gibbosities arranged in 9 transverse rows with 2, 4, or 6 gibbosities; tubercles/gibbosities with 2 or 3 short spines at tips ……... Isohypsibius sattleri (Richters)

40. Gibbosities arranged in 10 transverse rows: 1st and 10th rows with 5 gibbosities; 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th rows with 4; 3rd, 5th, and 7th rows with 6; and 9th row with 2 gibbosities …

………………………………………………………….…... Isohypsibius tuberculatus (Plate)

-. Gibbosities arranged in 8 transverse rows: 7th row with 2 gibbosities; 2nd, 4th, and 6th rows with 4; 1st, 3rd, 5th, 8th rows with 3 ………………….... Isohypsibius mihelcici (Iharos)

41. Claws of Ramazzottius type, main branches of external claws completely separated from rest of claw ………………………………..……. Ramazzottius oberhaeuseri (Doyére)

-. Claws of Hypsibius type, main branches of external claws connected with rest of claw ………………………………………………………………………………………..... 42

42. Buccal tube rigid without spiral thickenings ……………………………………………. 43

-. Buccal tube divided into rigid anterior part (buccal tube) and flexible posterior part (pharyngeal tube) with spiral thickenings ............................................................................... 49

43. Cuticle on dorsal side of body smooth ……………..……..…………………….. 46

-. Cuticle on dorsal side of body sculptured ……………………...…………………. 45

45. Cuticle on dorsal side of caudal end body covered by irregular plates, eggs with tiny granulations ………………………….............……… Hypsibius scabropygus Cuénot

-. Cuticle on dorsal side with 9 transverse bands of pigmentation, eggs smooth …………………………………………………………..…… Hypsibius novemcinctus Marcus

46. Septula present …………………………………..…………. Hypsibius dujardini (Doyére)

-. Septula absent …………………………………………………………………………….. 47

47. Macroplacoids rod-shaped, clearly longer then wide, 1st macroplacoid with a constriction in middle, small transversal bar between claws on pair IV of legs present, eyes usually absent ………….…………………………………..……… Hypsibius convergens Urbanowicz

- Macroplacoids rounded or granular, small transverse bar on pair IV of legs absent, large eyes present ............................................................................................................................. 48

48. Basal portions of claws the same length or longer than secondary branches ..............

.............................................................................................................Hypsibius pallidus Thulin

-. Basal portions of claws clearly shorter than secondary branches) ….................................

…………………………………………………………………..….. Hypsibius microps Thulin

49. Pharynx with 1 very slender macroplacoid ................................................................... 50

- Pharynx with more than 1 macroplacoid .......................................................................... 52

50. Stylet supports present, dentate lunules present .....................................................................

………………………..…….... Itaquascon mongolicus Kaczmarek, Michalczyk and Węglarska

-. Stylet supports absent, dentate lunules absent …………………………………...……….. 51

51. Pharynx elongated oval, claws long and slender ……….… Astatumen ramazzotti (Iharos)

-. Pharynx oval, claws short and massive ………….…… Astatumen trinacriae (Arcidiacono)

52. Apophyses for the insertion of stylet muscles in the shape of ‘blunt hooks’, pharyngeal tube shorter than buccal tube .………………………….……. Hebesuncus conjugens (Thulin)

-. Apophyses for the insertion of stylet muscles shaped differently, pharyngeal tube longer than buccal tube ...………………………………………………………………….……….. 53

53. Apophyses for insertion of stylet muscles in shape of ‘very wide and flat ridges’, buccopharyngeal tube short and wide ………. Platicrista horribilis Kaczmarek and Michalczyk

-. Apophyses for insertion of stylet muscles in the shape of ‘semilunar hooks’, buccopharyngeal tube very long and narrow ………….……………………….…………… 54

54. Drop-like structure between buccal and pharyngeal tube present .................................... 55

-. Drop-like structure between buccal and pharyngeal tube absent ........................................ 59

55. Cuticle on dorsal side of body smooth …………………………..…………….... 56

-. Cuticle on dorsal side of body with gibbosities covered with reticular design ...…… 58

56. Pharynx with 2 macroplacoids and septula or microplacoid …………………………… 57

-. Pharynx with 3 macroplacoids, septula, and microplacoid ……………….………………….

…………………………………………………..….. Diphascon (Diphascon) pingue (Marcus)

57. Septula present …………………………..…… Diphascon (Diphascon) brevipes (Marcus)

-. Microplacoid present ……………………..…… Diphascon (Diphascon) recamieri Richters

58. Gibbosities arranged in 9 transverse rows with 2 gibbosities in each row ……..………..

………………………………………………..……. Diphascon (Diphascon) bullatum Murray

-. Only 1 longitudinal row with 6 gibbosities …………………………………

…………………………………………..…………… Diphascon (Diphascon) sexbullatum Ito

59. Pharynx with 2 macroplacoids ……………..…... Diphascon (Adropion) belgicae Richters

-. Pharynx with 3 macroplacoids …………………………………………………...……….. 60

60. Microplacoid and septula absent ………..…….. Diphascon (Adropion) prosirostre Thulin

-. Microplacoid and septula present ……………….... Diphascon (Adropion) scoticum Murray

61. Buccal tube decreasing in width from anterior to posterior part ……………………

…………………………………………………………..… Milnesium cf. eurystomum Maucci

-. Buccal tube not decreasing in width from anterior to posterior part …………………

………………………………………………………………....Milnesium tardigradum Doyére

 

Acknowledgements: The authors want to thank Prof. Barbara Węglarska (Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland) who provided slides from her collection.  We are also grateful to Dr. Peter Degma and 2 anonymous referees who made valuable remarks on the manuscript.  Dr. Wojciech Magowski (Poland) made the microscope with phase contrast available to us.  Masamichi Ito (Japan) helped us find the type specimens, and Senior Curator Hirotsugu Ono from The National Science Museum (Tokyo) kindly loaned us the holotype of D. sexbullatum.

The paper is based on a Master’s thesis by the 1st author: „Niesporczaki (Tardigrada) Mongolii” (‘Water bears (Tardigrada) of Mogolia’).  The thesis was successfully defended in June 2003 and is available at A. Mickiewicz University (Department of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology, A. Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-614 Poznań, Poland).

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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