Latest Articles from Subterranean Biology Latest 27 Articles from Subterranean Biology https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:08:05 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from Subterranean Biology https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/ A new species of Stygobromus Cope, 1872 (Amphipoda, Crangonyctidae) from a hypotelminorheic seepage spring in Washington, D.C., USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/112984/ Subterranean Biology 48: 117-146

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.48.112984

Authors: Matthew L. Niemiller, Andrew G. Cannizzaro, Thomas R. Sawicki, David C. Culver

Abstract: We describe a new species of subterranean amphipod (Amphipoda: Crangonyctidae) in the genus Stygobromus from a hypotelminorheic seepage spring at Shepherd Parkway, part of National Capital East Parks, Washington, D.C., USA, part of the National Park System, using both morphological and genetic approaches. The Anacostia Groundwater Amphipod, S. anacostensis sp. nov. is a member of the S. tenuis species group but differs from related congeners based on body size, serrate blade-like edge of both palms of gnathopods 1 and 2, presence of rastellate setae on the posterodistal margin of the carpus of gnathopod 2, and aspects of the second antennae, mandibular palp, pereopods 5–7, uropods 1 and 2, and telson. Moreover, S. anacostensis sp. nov. is genetically distinct from S. tenuis in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. The description of S. anacostensis sp. nov. increases the number of described Stygobromus species to eight in the Washington D.C. area and highlights the need for continued biodiversity studies, even in regions that have received considerable attention.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Feb 2024 23:21:34 +0200
DNA taxonomy reveals high species diversity among the stygobiont genus Metastenasellus (Crustacea, Isopoda) in African groundwater https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/113022/ Subterranean Biology 48: 51-71

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.48.113022

Authors: Moïssou Lagnika, Raoul Polycarpe Tuekam Kayo, Gontran Sonet, Jean-François Flot, Patrick Martin

Abstract: This study aimed to explore the species diversity within the isopod genus Metastenasellus in Benin and Cameroon. Compared to other parts of the world, the described diversity of stygobiotic crustaceans in Africa is low due to a dearth of studies and taxonomic expertise. However, recent research activities in Benin and Cameroon suggest higher groundwater diversity than previously envisioned. Recent sampling campaigns in these countries have shown that Metastenasellus is a major group in the underground aquatic environment. The accumulation of biological material provided an opportunity to explore species diversity within the genus using a DNA taxonomy approach based on the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene fragment. Despite the limitations of using a single-locus approach for species delimitation, an overview of the diversity within the genus Metastenasellus was obtained, revealing the presence of 23 distinct lineages. Several elements suggest that most, if not all, of these lineages represent valid species. These include high genetic distances between lineages, morphologically distinct species separated by genetic distances of the same order of magnitude as between other described lineages, and the coexistence of different lineages at the same stations. Despite a limited sampling effort, these first results indicate a high level of species diversity and endemism within Metastenasellus in the studied regions. The narrow geographic distribution of the lineages suggests strong isolation and limited dispersal abilities. This study highlights the potential for discovering a significant number of new species within this genus and emphasizes the need for further research to uncover the extent of diversity in African stygobiotic isopods.

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Research Article Wed, 7 Feb 2024 14:06:08 +0200
Two new species add to the diversity of Eoniphargus in subterranean waters of Japan, with molecular phylogeny of the family Mesogammaridae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/86914/ Subterranean Biology 44: 21-50

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.44.86914

Authors: Aki Shintani, Chi-Woo Lee, Ko Tomikawa

Abstract: Amphipod crustaceans are a major group of invertebrates that predominantly occur in groundwater ecosystems. Eoniphargus is a mesogammarid genus with only two known species from the groundwater systems of the Japanese archipelago and Korean Peninsula. However, there is a dearth of taxonomic studies on this genus, and the species diversity within Eoniphargus is unclear. Here, we describe two new species, E. iwataorum sp. nov. and E. toriii sp. nov., collected from the interstitial waters in Tochigi and Shizuoka Prefectures in the Japanese archipelago. These two new species are distinguished from their congeners by the following features: head, urosomite 3, first and second antennae, mandibles, and maxilla 1. Eoniphargus kojimai is redescribed here based on material collected near the type locality. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on the nuclear 28S rRNA and mitochondrial COI genes revealed that E. kojimai is sister to E. iwataorum sp. nov. In this study, we also briefly discuss the phylogenetic relationships of Mesogammaridae based on the molecular phylogenetic analyses.

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Research Article Mon, 15 Aug 2022 21:31:27 +0300
Two new troglobitic species of Iansaoniscus from Brazilian caves (Crustacea, Isopoda, Pudeoniscidae) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/81308/ Subterranean Biology 43: 127-143

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.43.81308

Authors: Giovanna Monticelli Cardoso, Rafaela Bastos-Pereira, Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira

Abstract: Iansaoniscus species are troglobitic terrestrial isopods of the Pudeoniscidae family. In this work two new species are described from caves in the Bahia state, northeastern Brazil; I. leilae sp. nov. from Toca do Gonçalo cave, in the municipality of Campo Formoso; and I. paulae sp. nov. from Lapa do Bode cave in the municipality of Itaeté. Additionally, ecological notes and conservation status are provided for both new species.

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Research Article Tue, 14 Jun 2022 17:27:06 +0300
A new species of Chaimowiczia from the karstic Serra do Ramalho plateau, Brazil (Oniscidea, Synocheta, Styloniscidae) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/80274/ Subterranean Biology 42: 139-149

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.42.80274

Authors: Giovanna Monticelli Cardoso, Rafaela Bastos-Pereira, Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira

Abstract: Chaimowiczia belongs to the subfamily Iuiuniscinae, family Styloniscidae, and is currently composed of two troglobitic species: C. tatus and C. uai, both occurring in Brazil. A new species of Styloniscidae found in Brazil (Bahia state, Serra do Ramalho, Serra Verde cave) was allocated into this genus by the antenna flagellum with three articles; rectangular-shaped lateral pereonites epimera not apically acute and apex of pleopod 2 endopod with an acute tip and an acute or rounded lobe directed outwards. The new species, C. obybytyra sp. nov., is here described and rises to 25 the number of troglobitic styloniscidean species known for Brazilian caves.

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Research Article Tue, 29 Mar 2022 12:48:23 +0300
A new obligate groundwater species of Asellus (Isopoda, Asellidae) from Iran https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/79447/ Subterranean Biology 42: 97-124

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.42.79447

Authors: Mohammad Javad Malek-Hosseini, Jure Jugovic, Yaser Fatemi, Matjaž Kuntner, Rok Kostanjšek, Christophe J. Douady, Florian Malard

Abstract: With only 43 described stygobionts and only two isopod species the obligate groundwater fauna of Iran, a vast country with over 10% of limestone surface, is inadequately known. Here, we report the discovery of Asellus ismailsezarii sp. nov. from Zagros mountains, the first eyeless and depigmented asellid isopod from Iran. The new species is morphologically similar to Asellus monticola Birstein, 1932, but it is eyeless and fully depigmented, has a slightly curved pereopod IV and does not bear any setae on proximal margins of exopodite of pleopods IV and V. Species phylogenetic relationships using original and datamined mitochondrial DNA and nuclear rDNA, and estimation of molecular divergences with other Asellus species, suggest that A. ismailsezarii sp. nov. is sister to a larger clade that also contains the European A. aquaticus species complex. Surface populations of Asellus have colonized groundwater at multiple occasions and localities, both in Europe and Asia, giving rise to species and subspecies that have evolved troglomorphisms, such as depigmentation and loss of eyes. Of the 37 formally described species and subspecies of Asellus, 15 are from groundwater, including A. ismailsezarii sp. nov. We predict that many more obligate groundwater Asellus taxa are yet to be discovered in Asia.

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Research Article Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:12:22 +0200
Unique and fragile diversity emerges from Brazilian caves – two new amphibious species of Xangoniscus Campos-Filho, Araujo & Taiti, 2014 (Oniscidea, Styloniscidae) from Serra do Ramalho karst area, state of Bahia, Brazil https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/75725/ Subterranean Biology 42: 1-22

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.42.75725

Authors: Ivanklin S. Campos-Filho, Jéssica S. Gallo, Jonas E. Gallão, Dayana F. Torres, Lília Horta, Yesenia M. Carpio-Díaz, Carlos M. López-Orozco, Ricardo Borja-Arrieta, José O. Aguiar, Maria E. Bichuette

Abstract: Two new troglobitic species of Xangoniscus are described from two caves of Serra do Ramalho karst area, Bambuí geomorphological group, state of Bahia. Xangoniscus lapaensis sp. nov. is described from Gruna Boca da Lapa cave, and X. loboi sp. nov. from Gruna da Pingueira II cave. Both species are blind and depigmented and show amphibious habits, as observed for all species of Xangoniscus described until now. Xangoniscus lapaensis sp. nov. occurs in travertine pools fed by water of the upper aquifer, and X. loboi sp. nov. occurs in a small stream, an upper vadose tributary. Both species occur in fragile microhabitats. Ecological and behavioral data, conservation remarks, and IUCN conservation assessments are included to provide background data for conservation efforts in this unique karst area.

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Research Article Mon, 10 Jan 2022 11:12:50 +0200
Distribution of Stenasellidae in Africa and description of a new species of Metastenasellus from Cameroonian groundwaters https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/76301/ Subterranean Biology 40: 175-194

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.40.76301

Authors: Pountougnigni Oumarou Farikou, Piscart Christophe, Sob Nangou Paul Bertrand, Zebaze Togouet Serge Hubert

Abstract: During recent investigations of the groundwater fauna of Cameroon, specimens of a new species of the stygobitic genus Metastenasellus, M. boutini sp. nov. were collected in wells of the city of Douala. The new species can be easily distinguished from the other species of the genus by its relatively large size (up to 11 mm), pleonite 1 and 2 half the length of pereonite 7, the shape of pleopod 2 in males (presence of an external lobe on the protopodite, distal part of the spermatic duct slightly protruding out of the second article, lack of a distal seta on the exopodite), and uropod half the length of the pleotelson. Ecological data and a key to Metastenasellus species are provided. We also performed an exhaustive analysis of the literature on Stenasellidae in Africa to study the geographical distribution of the family in this continent and discuss some hypotheses about the origin of African species.

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Research Article Fri, 3 Dec 2021 13:57:21 +0200
New troglobitic species of Niambia from Botswana and Namibia (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/72499/ Subterranean Biology 40: 91-108

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.40.72499

Authors: Giovanna Monticelli Cardoso, Gerhard Du Preez, Stefano Taiti, Rodrigo L. Ferreira

Abstract: Three new species in the genus Niambia are described from southern African caves: N. botswanaensis sp. nov. from Diviner’s Cave (Botswana), N. ghaubensis sp. nov. from Ghaub Cave and N. namibiaensis sp. nov. from Märchen Cave (Namibia). All these species show troglomorphic traits such as absence of body pigmentation and eyes. These are the first troglobitic species recorded in the genus. Most of the other species of Niambia are epigean and occur in semi-arid environments in the Afrotropical Region.

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Research Article Fri, 19 Nov 2021 14:17:36 +0200
Chaimowiczia: a new Iuiuniscinae genus from Brazil (Oniscidea, Synocheta, Styloniscidae) with the description of two new troglobitic species https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/65305/ Subterranean Biology 39: 45-62

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.39.65305

Authors: Giovanna Monticelli Cardoso, Rafaela Bastos-Pereira, Leila Aparecida Souza, Rodrigo L. Ferreira

Abstract: A new genus of Styloniscidae, Chaimowiczia gen. nov., is described with two new species: Chaimowiczia tatus sp. nov. from Gruta do Padre cave (Santana, Bahia) and Chaimowiczia uai sp. nov. from Lapa d’água do Zezé cave (Itacarambi, Minas Gerais). The new genus and species were allocated into the subfamily Iuiuniscinae, hitherto monotypic, by the pronounced rectangular-shaped lateral pereonites epimera, dorsal surface smooth, body outline continuous without a gap between pereon and pleon, and pleonites 3 to 5 developed forming tips. The two species of Chaimowiczia gen. nov. differ in the shape of cephalon antennal lobes, pereonite 1 epimera, pleonite 5 posterior margin and uropod exopod and endopod proportion.

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Research Article Tue, 8 Jun 2021 16:12:37 +0300
Citizen science approach reveals groundwater fauna in Switzerland and a new species of Niphargus (Amphipoda, Niphargidae) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/66755/ Subterranean Biology 39: 1-31

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.39.66755

Authors: Roman Alther, Nicole Bongni, Špela Borko, Cene Fišer, Florian Altermatt

Abstract: Knowledge on the diversity and distribution of subterranean organisms is still scattered, even in faunistically relatively well-researched countries such as Switzerland. This is mostly due to the restricted access to these subterranean habitats. Better knowledge on these organisms is needed, because they contribute substantially to overall biodiversity of a region, often contain unique elements of biodiversity, and can potentially be indicative of the ecological status of subterranean ecosystems that are providing important ecosystem services such as drinking water. Past research on subterranean organisms has often used highly specialised sampling techniques and expert knowledge. Here, we show that inclusion of non-professionals can be an alternative and highly promising sampling strategy. We retrieved citizen science-based samples from municipal groundwater wells across Switzerland, mainly from the Swiss Plateau. Opportunistic samples from 313 sites revealed a previously undocumented groundwater fauna including organisms from different major invertebrate groups, with a dominance of crustaceans. Here, we studied amphipods of the genus Niphargus. Among all 363 individuals sampled, we found in total eight nominal species. Two of them, namely N. fontanus and N. kieferi, are reported for Switzerland for the first time. We also found four further phylogenetic lineages that are potentially new species to science. One of them is here formally described as Niphargus arolaensis sp. nov. The description is based on molecular and morphometric data. Our study proves the suitability of citizen science to document subterranean diversity, supports groundwater conservation efforts with data, and raises awareness for the relevance and biodiversity of groundwater amphipods among stakeholders.

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Research Article Tue, 25 May 2021 16:11:25 +0300
Corrigenda: Stygobromus bakeri, a new species of groundwater amphipod (Amphipoda, Crangonyctidae) associated with the Trinity and Edwards aquifers of central Texas, USA. Subterranean Biology 38: 19–45. https://doi: 10.3897/subtbiol.38.61787 https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/68597/ Subterranean Biology 38: 113-115

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.38.68597

Authors: Randy Gibson, Benjamin T. Hutchins, Jean K. Krejca, Peter H. Diaz, Peter S. Sprouse

Abstract: N/A

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Corrigenda Fri, 21 May 2021 16:48:32 +0300
Stygobromus bakeri, a new species of groundwater amphipod (Amphipoda, Crangonyctidae) associated with the Trinity and Edwards aquifers of central Texas, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/61787/ Subterranean Biology 38: 19-45

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.38.61787

Authors: Randy Gibson, Benjamin T. Hutchins, Jean K. Krejca, Peter H. Diaz, Peter S. Sprouse

Abstract: A new stygobitic groundwater amphipod species, Stygobromus bakeri sp. nov., is described from 4 central Texas limestone karst springs; John Knox Spring (Comal County), Jacob’s Well (Hays County), Mormon Spring (Travis County) and Salado Springs (Bell County). This species belongs to the predominately western Nearctic hubbsi species group of Stygobromus and differs from other species in the group by gnathopod 1 with row of 4 to 5 setae posterior to the defining angle, pereopods 6 and 7 with broadly expanded bases and distinct distoposterior lobes, gnathopods 1 and 2 with 2 rows of 3 singly inserted setae on the inner palm, and uropod 3 with single, slightly distal peduncular seta. Habitat, sympatric groundwater species, and conservation issues are discussed.

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Research Article Mon, 12 Apr 2021 08:23:58 +0300
Forty-year natural history study of Bahalana geracei Carpenter, 1981, an anchialine cave-dwelling isopod (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cirolanidae) from San Salvador Island, Bahamas: reproduction, growth, longevity, and population structure https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/60653/ Subterranean Biology 37: 105-156

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.37.60653

Authors: Jerry H. Carpenter

Abstract: Almost nothing has been reported on the natural history of any of the world’s 92 species of cave cirolanids, including those from saltwater caves (anchialine). Over 1400 specimens of Bahalana geracei Carpenter, 1981 were collected in two caves from 1978–2018; size-frequency data provided insight into population structure. Some specimens were maintained alive over multiple years to study rarely reported activities for cave cirolanids: feeding, molting, growth, longevity, and reproduction. Photographs document these phenomena. Mating occurred after gravid females shed both halves of reproductive molts. Females can have multiple broods (iteroparous) with ~2.0–3.5 years per reproductive cycle: egg production (~9–24 months), mating, brooding (5–6 months), release of 6–55 mancas (2.3–3.3 mm long), and oostegite molt (~2–13 months after manca release). Estimated lifetime fecundity is 58 mancas per female; probable range is 20–120. In Lighthouse Cave, females outnumbered males (~4:1), grew larger (16.8 vs. 9.5 mm), and lived longer. Growth rates were slow: ~1–2 years for three instars of post-marsupial manca development (from ~2.3–4.0 mm); estimated adult growth rate was 0.8 mm/year (1.6 molts/year) for males, and 0.5 mm/year (1.5 molts/year) for females. Longevity estimates for females are 25–28 years with 23–30 instars, vs. 6–8 years for males with 13–15 instars. Males from Major’s Cave were nearly as numerous and as large (14.8 mm) as females; estimated longevity for males is >20 years. Longevity estimates of >20 years appear to be the longest for any isopod species. Female longevity probably increased by being starvation resistant, surviving multiple broods, cannibalizing smaller B. geracei, and living in a low-stress environment. Populations appear to be stable, relatively large, and not currently threatened.

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Research Article Thu, 25 Feb 2021 08:51:00 +0200
First record of the genus Graeconiscus Strouhal, 1940 (Isopoda, Oniscidea, Trichoniscidae) in the Iberian Peninsula with the description of a new troglobitic species https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/58272/ Subterranean Biology 36: 51-61

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.36.58272

Authors: Lluc Garcia, Adrià Miralles-Núñez, Toni Pérez-Fernández

Abstract: Graeconiscus gevi sp. nov., a new troglobitic terrestrial isopod (family Trichoniscidae, subfamily Haplophthalminae), is described. The specimens of the new species are found in the Cueva del Yeso III, in the province of Málaga (SE Spain). Graeconiscus gevi sp. nov. is closely related to Graeconiscus thermophilus (Çaglar, 1948), an oculate species from Turkey and some Eastern Mediterranean islands. The morphological differences between both species are discussed and illustrated by SEM images of specimens from Málaga and Cyprus. The studied material represents the first record of the genus Graeconiscus in the Iberian Peninsula.

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Research Article Mon, 16 Nov 2020 08:41:48 +0200
Updates to the sporadic knowledge on microsporidian infections in groundwater amphipods (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Niphargidae) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/48633/ Subterranean Biology 33: 71-85

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.33.48633

Authors: Daniel Grabner, Dieter Weber, Alexander M. Weigand

Abstract: A set of 69 specimens from 19 groundwater species of the genera Niphargus, Niphargellus, Microniphargus and Crangonyx was genetically screened for microsporidian infections. Samples mostly originated from groundwater-dependent spring environments (71%), natural caves (9%) and artificial caverns/tunnels (13%). Amphipod hosts were identified by morphology and/or molecular data, whereas microsporidian parasites were characterised by a genetic screening assay targeting a section of the small subunit rRNA gene. Five microsporidian species (Dictyocoela duebenum; Nosema sp.; Hyperspora aquatica and two undescribed Microsporidium spp.) were revealed from 13 host specimens (Niphargus schellenbergi; N. aquilex lineages B, F and G; Niphargellus arndti). In particular N. schellenbergi was frequently infected with D. duebenum as well as a new and potentially niphargid-specific Nosema sp. identified in Niphargellus arndti. Our results shed further light on the still largely unknown diversity and specificity of microsporidian parasites in groundwater amphipods and subterranean animals in general.

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Research Article Thu, 13 Feb 2020 13:18:48 +0200
Metabolic responses to long-term food deprivation in subterranean and surface amphipods https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/48483/ Subterranean Biology 33: 1-15

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.33.48483

Authors: Parvathi Nair, Mar Huertas, Weston H. Nowlin

Abstract: A long-standing hypothesis in subterranean biology posits that organisms living in poor resource subsurface habitats can withstand long periods of bioenergetic shortages due to an innate reduced metabolic rate when compared to their epigean counterparts. However, previous studies have proposed that caves with ample energy resources may not evolve organisms with reduced metabolic rate. The equivocal nature of previous findings suggests that there is a need to compare food deprivation responses of subterranean and surface species in order to elucidate whether there are widespread adaptations to low energy systems in subterranean taxa. The purpose of the study was to examine patterns in basal metabolism and the effects of food deprivation in closely related subterranean- and epigean- amphipods, Stygobromus pecki and Synurella sp. from central and east Texas, USA, respectively. Basal metabolic rates (measured as O2 consumption) differed between species, with S. pecki having substantially lower rates than Synurella. Individuals of both species were food deprived for a pre-determined time interval and changes in total body protein, lipids, and carbohydrates were measured throughout food deprivation experiments. Stygobromus pecki had larger initial energy stores than Synurella and were more conservative in the use of energetic reserves over a prolonged period of food deprivation. Thus, it appears that although S. pecki are currently found in shallow phreatic and spring opening environments, they have maintained more efficient metabolic adaptations to deal with prolonged periods of food deprivation.

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Research Article Mon, 13 Jan 2020 08:41:22 +0200
The study of amphipods in rimstone pools of Akiyoshi-do Cave, Japan https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/35031/ Subterranean Biology 32: 81-94

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.32.35031

Authors: Kanato Ando

Abstract: Akiyoshi-do Cave is the largest show cave in Japan and has been recognised as a hotspot of cave animals due to their diversity in species. Human-induced alterations in the cave environment have been a significant concern catching the attention of tourists and managers. Previous studies indicated water quality alteration induced by tourism could affect the population densities of amphipods. However, no study went further than qualitative observation in terms of human impacts. This study targets two amphipods living in Akiyoshi-do Cave, Pseudocrangonyx akatsukai and Gammarus nipponensis and measures water characteristics in which they live. Results show that the population densities of the amphipods have decreased compared to the 1970s. Their living habitat has changed, probably induced by tourism.

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Research Article Tue, 29 Oct 2019 10:37:13 +0200
A new species of Alpioniscus (Illyrionethes) from the Dinaric Karst (Isopoda, Oniscidea, Trichoniscidae) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/37509/ Subterranean Biology 32: 33-42

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.32.37509

Authors: Jana Bedek, Sanja Gottstein, Stefano Taiti

Abstract: In the Dinaric Karst, Alpioniscus (Illyrionethes) is the taxon with the largest number of troglobiotic species (19), one of which is new and described here: A. busljetai sp. nov., found in two caves in the coastal area of North Dalmatia. Both caves are threatened by human activities (IUCN threats 1.1, 9.1.1).

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Research Article Mon, 9 Sep 2019 09:15:16 +0300
Response of shallow subterranean freshwater amphipods to habitat drying https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/30700/ Subterranean Biology 28: 15-28

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.28.30700

Authors: Heather Gilbert, Jenna Keany, David C. Culver

Abstract: The ability of three amphipods that occupy shallow subterranean habitats in the lower Potomac Basin of the US (hypotelminorheic), which often dry out seasonally, to withstand desiccation by burrowing in clay was investigated. Both Crangonyx shoemakeri, a wetland species, and Stygobromus tenuis, a subterranean species, burrowed in clay in the laboratory after surface water was removed. Gammarus minus, a spring species, did not. All three species exhibited behavioral changes as the habitat dried out.

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Research Article Fri, 16 Nov 2018 15:28:03 +0200
New occurrence records for stygobiontic invertebrates from the Edwards and Trinity aquifers in west-central Texas, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/29282/ Subterranean Biology 28: 1-13

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.28.29282

Authors: Bradley D. Nissen, Thomas J. Devitt, Nathan F. Bendik, Andrew G. Gluesenkamp, Randy Gibson

Abstract: We report new occurrence records for stygobiontic invertebrates from the Edwards and Trinity aquifers in Blanco, Hays, and Travis counties of central Texas, USA. Our collection includes seven species from four families: Caecidotea reddelli (Steeves, 1968), Asellidae; Crangonyx nr. pseudogracilis Bousfield, 1958, Stygobromus balconis (Hubricht, 1943), Stygobromus bifurcatus (Holsinger, 1967), and Stygobromus russelli (Holsinger, 1967), Crangonyctidae; Sphalloplana mohri Hyman, 1938, Kenkiidae; and Cirolanides sp., Cirolanidae. Specimens of Caecidotea reddelli and Crangonyx nr. pseudogracilis are new records for Hays County and Travis county, respectively. Specimens of an undescribed species of Cirolanides were collected from a well in Hays County and from two localities in Travis County.

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Short Communication Thu, 1 Nov 2018 10:08:34 +0200
First record of the family Stenasellidae (Crustacea, Isopoda) in Iran with the description of a new cave-dwelling species https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/25950/ Subterranean Biology 26: 27-38

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.26.25950

Authors: Yaser Bakhshi, Saber Sadeghi, Giuseppe Messana

Abstract: A new cave isopod species of the genus Stenasellus Dollfus, 1897 (Stenasellidae) from Iran is reported and described. The new species, Stenasellus tashanensis sp. n. was found in Tashan Cave (Khuzestan province, southwest Iran). A complete description and drawings of the new species are provided. This new species is morphologically close to S. vermeuleni Magniez & Stock, 2000 from Oman.

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Research Article Wed, 20 Jun 2018 13:41:19 +0300
The first troglobiotic species of the family Pudeoniscidae (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea), with descriptions of a new genus and two new species https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/20963/ Subterranean Biology 23: 69-84

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.23.20963

Authors: Ivanklin Soares Campos-Filho, Maria Elina Bichuette, Giuseppe Montesanto, Paula Beatriz Araujo, Stefano Taiti

Abstract: Approximately 170 species of terrestrial isopods are known from Brazil, but only 12 are considered troglobionts. The family Pudeoniscidae comprises four species in two genera, Brasiloniscus and Pudeoniscus. After the examination of material collected in caves in the state of Bahia, a new genus and two new species have been recognized, Iansaoniscus iraquara gen. et sp. n. from Buraco do Cão cave, Iraquara, and Iansaoniscus georginae gen. et sp. n. from Borboletas cave, Paripiranga. The new genus and new species are placed in Pudeoniscidae on the basis of some morphological characteristics, such as antennal flagellum with second and third articles divided by a slender suture, epimera of pereonite 1 with dorsolateral furrow reduced or absent, and shape of uropods. The Brazilian subterranean environments are now under potential threat because of recent legislation for cave exploitation, and the knowledge of the subterranean biodiversity of the country is thus of primary importance for its effective conservation.

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Research Article Thu, 26 Oct 2017 15:45:51 +0300
A new genus for Cirolana troglexuma Botosaneanu & Iliffe, 1997, an anchialine cave dwelling cirolanid isopod (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cirolanidae) from the Bahamas https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/11181/ Subterranean Biology 21: 57-92

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.21.11181

Authors: Niel L. Bruce, Saskia Brix, Nicholas Balfour, Terue C. Kihara, Alexander M. Weigand, Sevag Mehterian, Thomas M. Iliffe

Abstract: Cirolana troglexuma Botosaneanu & Iliffe, 1997 is redescribed and a Lucayalana Bruce & Brix, gen. n. established for the species. In total 38 specimens were collected from Hatchet Bay Cave, Eleuthera. Specimens on which previous records of L. troglexuma (from Exuma Cays, Cat Island, and Eleuthera) were based have been re-examined when possible. The diagnostic identifying characters and purported apomorphies for Lucayalana gen. n. are: frontal lamina short, narrow, less than 7% width of labrum, not extending to anterior margin of head; pleonite 3 extending posteriorly to posterior of pleonite 5, laterally overlapping pleonites 4 and 5; ventrally broad, forming a strong ventrally directed blade; pereopods 1–3 merus inferior margin RS not molariform. Mitochondrial COI and 16S loci and the nuclear 18S locus data show that all specimens are the one species. Comparison to additional cirolanid COI sequence data (BOLD, GenBank) show that Lucayalana troglexuma is genetically distinct to all other cirolanid genera with available COI sequences. The single male and females have shared COI (with three females), 16S (eight females) and 18S sequences (two females).

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Research Article Wed, 8 Feb 2017 11:46:36 +0200
Incipient regressive evolution of the circadian rhythms of a cave amphipod https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/10010/ Subterranean Biology 20: 1-13

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.20.10010

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Emily Collins, Anthony Finocchiaro, Joseph Kopp, Jenna Robinson, Jennifer Rutkowski

Abstract: The habitat of cave-adapted organisms is characterized by complete darkness and in some instances, an apparent lack of environmental distinction between day and night. It is unclear if cave-adapted organisms retain circadian rhythms that can be light-entrained. Stygobromus allegheniensis (Allegheny Cave Amphipod) is an eyeless troglobitic crustacean found in caves located in the Northeastern region of the United States. Two cave populations were examined for evidence of light-entrained circadian rhythms. The first population inhabits a small tectonic cave (Ice Caves, Sam’s Point Preserve, NY) and the second (Clarksville Cave, Clarksville, NY) inhabits a long cave system in limestone rock. Experiments conducted in both the field and the laboratory suggest that the capacity to exhibit motor rhythms has been conserved in at least some individuals of both populations. Nonetheless, their motor activity rhythms have high variability of period length between individuals and do not appear to be light-entrainable. It is thus proposed that in this species, light-entrainable circadian rhythms controlling motor activity have undergone incipient regressive evolution.

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Research Article Fri, 7 Oct 2016 12:13:37 +0300
Biodiversity and biogeography of groundwater invertebrates in Queensland, Australia https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/7542/ Subterranean Biology 17: 55-76

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.17.7542

Authors: Katharine Glanville, Cameron Schulz, Moya Tomlinson, Don Butler

Abstract: Groundwater systems, traditionally considered lifeless conduits of water (Hancock and Boulton 2008, Schulz et al. 2013), are now known to provide critical habitat for a diverse range of fauna collectively called stygofauna. Stygofauna communities can have significant conservation value as exemplified by relatively high levels of endemism and biodiversity. Despite this the biogeography and taxonomic diversity of stygofauna communities largely remains undocumented. This paper describes the development and interrogation of a state-wide database of 755 samples from 582 sites, and reviews the current knowledge of stygofauna biodiversity and biogeography across Queensland (north-eastern Australia). Queensland is known to host 24 described families of stygofauna with stygofauna composition broadly consistent with other regions around the world. However Queensland assemblages tend to be unusually rich in both oligochaetes (16% cf. 2%) and syncarids (12% cf. 4%). Associations between stygofauna taxonomic richness and key environmental variables were consistent with many general assumptions of habitat suitability. However there were also notable exceptions, including stygofauna records from: groundwater 60 meters below ground level; groundwater with electrical conductivity above 50,000 μS/cm, and; both highly acidic (pH 3.5) and alkaline (pH 10.3) environments. These exceptions clearly demonstrate that strict adherence to general assumptions about habitat suitability when planning sampling activities may mask the true diversity of groundwater ecosystems.

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Research Article Tue, 15 Mar 2016 14:01:08 +0200
Biogeography and conservation assessment of Bactrurus groundwater amphipods (Crangonyctidae) in the central and eastern United States https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/7298/ Subterranean Biology 17: 1-29

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.17.7298

Authors: Steven J. Taylor, Matthew L. Niemiller

Abstract: The subterranean amphipod genus Bactrurus (Amphipoda: Crangonyctidae) is comprised of eight species that occur in groundwater habitats in karst and glacial deposits of the central and eastern United States. We reexamine the distribution, biogeography, and conservation status of Bactrurus in light of new species distribution records and divergence time estimates in the genus from a recent molecular study. In particular, we discuss hypotheses regarding the distribution and dispersal of B. mucronatus and B. brachycaudus into previously glaciated regions of the Central Lowlands. We also conducted the first IUCN Red List conservation assessments and reassessed global NatureServe conservation ranks for each species. We identified 17 threats associated with increased extinction risk that vary in source, scope, and severity among species, with groundwater pollution being the most significant threat to all species. Our conservation assessments indicate that five of the eight species are at an elevated risk of extinction under IUCN Red List or NatureServe criteria, with one species (B. cellulanus) already extinct. However, none of the eight species are considered threatened or endangered by any state or federal agency. Significant knowledge gaps regarding the life history, ecology, and demography of each species exist. Given results of our conservation assessments and available information on threats to populations, we offer recommendations for conservation, management, and future research for each species.

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Research Article Tue, 2 Feb 2016 10:02:37 +0200