Tidesmus episcopus
Chamberlin, 1943
Tidesmus episcopus Chamberlin, 1943 is a small-bodied and the type of the Tidesmus ( Macrosternodesmidae). The species was originally described from western North America and is one of four recognized species in the genus. Phreatodesmus cooki Loomis, 1960 has been synonymized with this species. The family Macrosternodesmidae was redefined in a 2007 revision that clarified the generic placement of several western North American species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tidesmus episcopus: //tɪˈdɛs.mus ɛˈpɪs.kə.pus//
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Identification
As a member of the Macrosternodesmidae, T. episcopus is a small-bodied polydesmidan . Definitive identification requires examination of male , which are the primary diagnostic features for -level in this group. The species can be distinguished from T. torreyanus (formerly Phreatodesmus torreyanus) and T. variabilis (formerly Oodedesmus variabilis) by subtle differences in gonopod . Specimens from the type locality are necessary for reliable identification given taxonomic revisions and synonymy history.
Distribution
Arizona and California, USA; Baja California Norte, Mexico. GBIF records confirm presence in California.
Similar Taxa
- Tidesmus torreyanusFormerly placed in Phreatodesmus; distinguished by and was originally described from a different locality.
- Tidesmus variabilisFormerly placed in Oodedesmus; another small-bodied in the with overlapping geographic range.
- Tidesmus hastingsusFormerly Brachydesmus hastingsus; identity uncertain due to lack of authentic and need for topotypical male.