Cryptomastridae
Derkarabetian & Hedin, 2018
Cryptomastrid Harvestmen
Cryptomastridae is a small of armoured ( ) comprising two and four described . The family was established in 2018 following taxonomic revision, with members formerly classified under Cladonychiidae. These harvestmen are to the Pacific Northwest of the United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cryptomastridae: /kɹɪptoʊˈmæstɹɪdeɪ/
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Identification
Distinguished from other travunioid by a combination of genital and somatic characters established in the 2018 revision. Previously grouped with Cladonychiidae, from which it was separated based on molecular and morphological evidence. The two constituent , Cryptomaster and Speleomaster, differ in troglomorphic .
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Habitat
Found in forested environments of the Pacific Northwest. Speleomaster are troglobitic (cave-dwelling), while Cryptomaster species inhabit surface including moist forest litter and rocky substrates.
Distribution
to the United States, specifically Oregon and Idaho.
Similar Taxa
- CladonychiidaeFormerly included Cryptomastridae members; separated based on molecular and morphological characters in 2018 revision.
- NemastomatidaeAnother travunioid ; Cryptomastridae distinguished by specific genital and geographic restriction to the Pacific Northwest.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was erected by Derkarabetian & Hedin in 2018 to accommodate previously placed in Cladonychiidae, reflecting improved understanding of travunioid .
Conservation status
The troglobitic Speleomaster is of potential concern due to restricted cave and limited distributions.