First Record of Echiniscus hoonsooi (Tardigrada : Echiniscidae) from Japan

Abstract

An echiniscid tardigrade, Echiniscus hoonsooi Moon and Kim, previously known only from South Korea, is reported from central Japan. A redescription, illustrations, and light and scanning electron photomicrographs are provided. Special attention is given to the intraspecific variability in the body cirri, and discriminating points from some similar species are also discussed.