A new relictual and highly troglomorphic species of Tomoceridae (Collembola) from a deep Croatian cave
2010
A New Species of Springtail from a Croatian Cave
Sample size: 8
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Marko Lukić, Céline Houssin, Louis Deharveng
Primary Institution: Croatian Biospeleological Society
Conclusion
The study describes a new species of springtail, Tritomurus veles, which exhibits unique adaptations to cave life.
Supporting Evidence
- Tritomurus veles has unique features like no eyes and reduced pigmentation.
- It shares similarities with another cave species, Tritomurus falcifer.
- The species was found in a specific hygropetric habitat in a Croatian cave.
- Specimens were collected during a speleological exploration.
Takeaway
Scientists found a new tiny creature living in a dark cave in Croatia that has special features to help it survive without light.
Methodology
Specimens were collected from a cave and studied using microscopy and SEM techniques.
Limitations
The species was only found in one location, limiting understanding of its distribution.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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