Integrative Descriptions of Two New Species of the Genus Mesobiotus (Tardigrada: Eutardigrada: Macrobiotidae) from Kibale National Park in Uganda.

ABSTRACT: In this study, we present descriptions of two new species of the genus Mesobiotus discovered in the tropical rainforest of Kibale National Park in Uganda, the first new tardigrade species from this location. Our research utilized morphological data obtained with phase-contrast and scanning electron microscopes and DNA sequences of four genetic markers (28S rRNA, 18S rRNA, CO1 and ITS-2). The main character distinguishing the new species, Mesobiotus ugandicus sp. nov., is the presence of egg processes in the shape of wide cones without filaments. The second new species Mesobiotus krystynae sp. nov. is distinguished mainly by having egg processes with long, slender endings with short filaments. However, both new species are properly differentiated from phenotypica

SUBMITTER: Wargula J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12833493 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature