Enigmina
Ubick & Briggs, 2008
Enigmina is a of armored in the Phalangodidae, established by Ubick & Briggs in 2008. The genus contains at least two described : Enigmina granita and Enigmina warrenorum. Members of this genus belong to the suborder Laniatores, a diverse group of short-legged harvestmen characterized by bodies and often elaborate defensive armor. The genus name reflects the enigmatic nature of these cryptic , which are poorly known in terms of their biology and .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Enigmina: /ɛˈnɪɡmɪnə/
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Identification
Enigmina can be distinguished from other Phalangodidae by features of the male , particularly the structure of the penis and the arrangement of on the . The genus is characterized by a heavily sclerotized body with prominent armor, consistent with the 'armored ' for the . Specific identification to species level requires examination of and reference to the original descriptions by Briggs (1968) for E. granita and Ubick & Briggs (2008) for E. warrenorum.
Distribution
Enigmina granita is known from California, USA. Enigmina warrenorum has been recorded from California, USA. The appears to be restricted to the western United States, specifically California.
Similar Taxa
- Other Phalangodidae generaEnigmina can be distinguished from related in Phalangodidae by unique male genitalic characters, particularly penis and patterns. Many phalangodid genera share the general 'armored ' body plan but differ in specific patterns and genital structures.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Enigmina granita was originally described by Briggs in 1968 under a different before being transferred to Enigmina when the genus was erected by Ubick & Briggs in 2008. The genus was established to accommodate with distinctive genitalic that did not fit within existing phalangodid genera.
Conservation status
No formal assessments have been conducted for Enigmina . The limited number of records and restricted geographic range may warrant future evaluation, particularly given ongoing changes in California.