A new species of Atractides Koch, 1837 (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Hygrobatidae) from Ethiopia, with a discussion on the biodiversity of the genus Atractides in the Afrotropical region
2011

New Water Mite Species from Ethiopia

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Vladimir Pešić, Harry Smit

Primary Institution: Department of Biology, University of Montenegro; Zoological Museum, University of Amsterdam

Hypothesis

The aim of our paper is to describe a new Atractides species from Ethiopia.

Conclusion

A new species of Atractides has been identified in Ethiopia, contributing to the understanding of the genus's biodiversity in the Afrotropical region.

Supporting Evidence

  • Atractides ethiopiensis sp. n. is a new species described from Ethiopia.
  • The total number of Atractides species worldwide is now 297.
  • 47 species of Atractides have been recorded from the Afrotropical region.

Takeaway

Scientists found a new type of tiny water mite in Ethiopia, which helps us learn more about these creatures in Africa.

Methodology

Water mites were collected by hand netting, preserved in Koenike fluid, and dissected for analysis.

Limitations

The current knowledge of the diversity of Afrotropical Atractides species is incomplete, with some habitats unexplored.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3897/zookeys.86.972

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