Two new species of Pseudostomella (Gastrotricha: Macrodasyida) with scaled triancres from the east coast of Australia |
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| Authors: | Rick Hochberg |
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| Institution: | Worms Section , Queensland Museum , South Brisbane, Q, 4101, Australia E-mail: RickH@qm.qld.gov.au |
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| Abstract: | Two new species of Pseudostomella from North Stradbroke Island, Australia, P. klauserae n. sp. and P. megapalpator n. sp., are characterised by scaled triancres, cuticular structures that until now were known only from one other member of the genus. The structure of the scaled triancres in both species is new: the triancre base is diamond‐ or triangular‐shaped with three shafts that arise to form feather‐like scales. P. klauserae n. sp. is characterised by scales arising from a diamond‐shaped triancre base, the distribution of cephalic papillae, and the abundance and distribution of anterior and lateral adhesive tubes. P. megapalpator n. sp. is distinguished by scales arising from a rounded‐triangular triancre base, large dorsal, digitiform papillae, and ventral adhesive tubes. The presence of two new species with scaled triancres allows for the formation of a novel species complex within the genus. An amended key to the species is included. |
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| Keywords: | Gastrotricha Macrodasyida Pseudostomella klauserae Pseudostomella megapalpator new species meiofauna Australia North Stradbroke Island |
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