Acanthodasys caribbeanensis sp. n., a new species of Thaumastodermatidae (Gastrotricha, Macrodasyida) from Belize and Panama
2010
A New Species of Acanthodasys from the Caribbean
Sample size: 10
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Rick Hochberg, Sarah Atherton
Primary Institution: University of Massachusetts Lowell
Hypothesis
Is there a new species of Acanthodasys in the Caribbean region?
Conclusion
Acanthodasys caribbeanensis sp. n. is a newly identified species from Belize and Panama, characterized by unique physical traits.
Supporting Evidence
- Acanthodasys caribbeanensis sp. n. is the first species of its kind reported from the Caribbean.
- The new species has unique spineless and spined scales that differ from other known species.
- Specimens were collected from two different locations, providing a broader understanding of its habitat.
Takeaway
Scientists found a new tiny creature in the Caribbean that looks different from others like it. It's called Acanthodasys caribbeanensis.
Methodology
Gastrotrichs were collected from sublittoral sites using SCUBA and extracted from sediment samples with a specific protocol.
Limitations
The study is limited to two specific locations in the Caribbean and may not represent the entire biodiversity of the region.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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