Remarks on the Echiniscus viridis group, with the description of a new species (Tardigrada, Echiniscidae)

Abstract

A new species, Echiniscus viridianus sp. n., is described in the Echiniscus viridis group from North America and the Azores Islands. It clearly differs from E. viridis in some details of the cuticular ornamentation (it has dark tubercles quite close to each other and larger light spots). A comparison of the new species with the others in the group indicates that this group is less homogeneous than traditionally believed.

Keywords

• Tardigrada, Echiniscus viridis group, E. viridianus sp. n.