Tularina
Ubick & Briggs, 2008
Tularina is a of harvestmen (Opiliones: Laniatores) in the Phalangodidae, described by Ubick & Briggs in 2008. As a member of the infraorder Grassatores, it belongs to a diverse group of long-legged arachnids commonly known as daddy longlegs. The genus was established based on morphological characteristics distinguishing it from related phalangodid genera. Information regarding , distribution, and remains limited in published literature.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tularina: /tʊˈlɑrɪnə/
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Identification
Tularina can be distinguished from other Phalangodidae by genital and somatic morphological features detailed in the original description. As with many laniatorean harvestmen, identification relies heavily on male genitalia structure and cheliceral . The lacks the extreme body flattening seen in some other grassatorean .
Distribution
The has been documented from cave systems in California, USA. Specific localities and extent of range remain poorly characterized.
Similar Taxa
- TexellaAnother of Phalangodidae from western North American caves; differs in male genitalia and structure.
- BanksulaCave-dwelling phalangodid with overlapping distribution; distinguished by tarsal segmentation and .
More Details
Taxonomic history
Tularina was erected in 2008 during a revision of western North American Phalangodidae, reflecting improved understanding of cave harvestman diversity. The name references Tular Cave in California, the type locality.
Conservation note
As a cave-restricted , Tularina may be vulnerable to groundwater pollution, disturbance, and climate-related changes in cave microclimate. No formal conservation assessments have been published.