Megalothorax
Willem, V, 1900
Species Guides
2Megalothorax is a of minute springtails in the Neelidae, order Neelipleona. The genus comprises approximately 14 described . Members are characterized by extremely small body size and globular typical of neelid springtails. The mitochondrial of M. incertus has been sequenced, revealing parthenogenetic and endosymbiont .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Megalothorax: //ˌmɛɡəloʊˈθɔːræks//
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Habitat
Megalothorax incertus has been collected from urban park environments in Shanghai, China, and maintained in laboratory culture. The broader shows distribution records spanning diverse biomes including Amazon, Andean, Antarctic and Subantarctic, Antillean and southern Florida, and Arctic and Sub-arctic regions.
Distribution
Documented from Shanghai, China (31°18'N, 121°47'E) for M. incertus. GBIF distribution records indicate presence across Amazon, Andean, Antarctic and Subantarctic, Antillean and southern Florida, and Arctic and Sub-arctic regions.
Host Associations
- Wolbachia - endosymbiont detected in M. incertus; confirmed through molecular analysis
More Details
Reproduction
has been directly observed in M. incertus, with confirmed from single unfertilized females in laboratory culture.
Phylogenetic significance
M. incertus represents the first complete mitochondrial reported from the order Neelipleona. Phylogenetic analysis suggests Neelidae is basal to remaining springtails and does not support a sister relationship between Neelipleona and Symphypleona.