Bellisotoma, a new genus of Isotomidae from North America (Hexapoda, Collembola)

Zookeys. 2013 Apr 3:(283):7-13. doi: 10.3897/zookeys.283.3277. Print 2013.

Abstract

A new genus of Isotomidae, Bellisotoma gen. n., is described. The new genus is a member of the Proisotoma genus complex and is characterized by a combination of having a bidentate mucro with wide dorsal lamellae that join clearly before the end of mucronal axis without forming a tooth and one strong ventral rib with basal notch that articulates with dens; having abundant chaetotaxy on both faces of dens; and abundant tergal sensilla. Bellisotoma gen. n. shows a furcula adapted to a neustonic mode of life, and may be a Isotopenola-like derivative adapted to neustonic habitats. Subisotoma joycei Soto-Adames & Giordano, 2011 and Ballistura ewingi James, 1933 are transferred to the new genus.

Keywords: Acidic sandy soil; Lectotype; Mississippi; Quebec; Vermont.