Speleomaster
Briggs, 1974
Speleomaster is a of armoured (: Laniatores) described by Briggs in 1974. The genus contains at least two , both to subterranean lava tube environments in southern Idaho's Snake River Plain. As members of the Cryptomastridae, these harvestmen represent a specialized lineage adapted to cave life.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Speleomaster: //ˈspɛli.oʊˌmɑːstər//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Speleomaster can be distinguished from other travunioid by its occurrence in Idaho lava tubes and its placement in Cryptomastridae. The is characterized by features of the male and . Specific diagnostic traits for the require examination of .
Habitat
Subterranean lava tubes of the Snake River Plain in southern Idaho. These cave environments provide stable temperature, high humidity, and darkness.
Distribution
to the Snake River Plain in southern Idaho, USA. Known only from the localities of its two described .
Similar Taxa
- Other TravunioideaSuperficially similar body plan among Insidiatores, but Speleomaster is distinguished by its cave-restricted distribution in Idaho lava tubes and -level characters of Cryptomastridae.
More Details
Species
Two described : Speleomaster lexi Briggs, 1974 and Speleomaster pecki Briggs, 1974. Both were described in the same publication and share the restricted cave .
Conservation
As a cave-restricted with limited distribution, Speleomaster may be vulnerable to disturbance, though specific assessments have not been published.