The Taxonomic Position of some Eutardigrades

Abstract

Numerous specimens of three species so far attributed to the Isohypsibius genus (I. smreczynskii, I. weglarskae and I. volubilis) were examined. A detailed analysis of the sclerified structures confirmed that they did, in fact, belong to three distinct species among which there is considerable affinity. The singular claw structure and egg-shell type suggested that the genus Amphibolus gen. n. be instituted for these species: This genus is further characterized by crest-shaped appendices for the insertion of the stylet muscles on the buccal tube and by inward-curving buccal lamellae. On considering the position of Amphibolus gen. n. it was thought right to institute the family Amphibolidae fam. n., to be characterized by Amphibolus type claws. © 1981, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.