Salishbaena kootenai n. g., n. sp., a remarkable new form of thermosbaenacean (Peracarida, Thermosbaenacea, Halosbaenidae) from Montana, U.S.A.

Abstract

Abstract A new representative of the Thermosbaenacea, Salishbaena kootenai n. g., n. sp., is described. Based on its specific characteristics and the complexly build maxilla 2, it clearly belongs to the family Halosbaenidae and morphologically seems closest to the European genus Limnosbaena, rather than to the other genera within this family. Updated keys for the identification of the families and genera within the Thermosbaenacea are provided. Given the significant range extension and unusual geologic and biogeographic context that this new record represents within the order Thermosbaenacea, brief observations on habitat and biogeography are included as well.