First evidence for cryptic species using a distribution map - the case of Ischyropsalis adamii Canestrini, 1873.
Ischyropsalis adamii is presently considered to be a single species. Investigating its distribution reveals three clearly separated distribution areas in the North, Center and South of the Italian Penisula. Specimens from these disjunct areas have been treated as distinct (as indicated on the map), but were united due to their relative uniform morphology.
That this distribution pattern is not simply an artefact of insufficient sampling is shown by the mapped distribution (yellow) of all members of Trogulidae. These soil-dwelling and humidity loving harvestmen are found together with I. adamii, where it occurs. Thorough pitfall sampling in the Northern Apennines can rule out a sampling artefact to be the cause of the disjunct distribution of these Ischyropsalis.
The next step to verify the possibility of independant populations is to sample material from all three populations and evaluate them genetically. Fresh material, especially from the North, is missing and would be highly appreciated. Eventually it may be shown that all three forms are valid species and the old names of the Central and Northern populations, need to be re-established.
© A.L. Schönhofer
That this distribution pattern is not simply an artefact of insufficient sampling is shown by the mapped distribution (yellow) of all members of Trogulidae. These soil-dwelling and humidity loving harvestmen are found together with I. adamii, where it occurs. Thorough pitfall sampling in the Northern Apennines can rule out a sampling artefact to be the cause of the disjunct distribution of these Ischyropsalis.
The next step to verify the possibility of independant populations is to sample material from all three populations and evaluate them genetically. Fresh material, especially from the North, is missing and would be highly appreciated. Eventually it may be shown that all three forms are valid species and the old names of the Central and Northern populations, need to be re-established.
© A.L. Schönhofer
