Caecidotea kenki
(Bowman, 1967)
Caecidotea kenki is a spring-dwelling asellid isopod found in the eastern United States. Originally described as Asellus kenki by Bowman in 1967, it is one of only three asellid in Maryland habitually associated with springs rather than subterranean caves. It is distinguished from the six obligate cave-dwelling Caecidotea species in the region by its surface water preference.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Caecidotea kenki: //ˌsiːsɪˈdoʊtiə ˈkɛŋki//
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Identification
Distinguished from obligate subterranean Caecidotea (C. pricei, C. franzi, C. holsingeri, C. mausi, C. vandeli, C. nordeni) by its occurrence in springs rather than caves. Differs from co-occurring spring species Lirceus brachyurus and C. alleghenyensis by specific morphological characters detailed in Bowman (1967); precise diagnostic features require examination of type material.
Habitat
Springs and spring-fed surface waters. Not an obligate cave dweller; occupies epigean groundwater with consistent flow and stable temperature conditions.
Distribution
Eastern United States; confirmed from Maryland and Washington, DC. In Maryland, documented from springs in contrast to the Allegheny Mountain cave systems occupied by related .
Similar Taxa
- Caecidotea alleghenyensisCo-occurs in Maryland springs; described from same region and type, distinguished by morphological features of the hobbsi group
- Lirceus brachyurusShares spring in Maryland; belongs to different with distinct body proportions and pleopod
- Caecidotea priceiConvergent in general form but obligate cave-dweller with associated troglomorphic adaptations absent in C. kenki
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Asellus kenki Bowman, 1967, later transferred to Caecidotea. The basionym reflects early 20th-century classification of North American asellids in the broad Asellus.
Conservation context
As a spring-dwelling rather than an obligate cave-dweller, C. kenki may be less vulnerable to groundwater events that isolate cave , though spring distinct anthropogenic pressures including surface development and water extraction.