First record of water bears (Tardigrada) from sponges (Porifera)

Authors: JOANNA TALANDA, KRZYSZTOF ZAWIERUCHA

Abstract: Aquatic species of Tardigrada usually inhabit submerged plants or sediment but they are also known as associated with other animals, like barnacles (Crustacea: Cirripedia) or sea cucumbers (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea). In sponges collected from Lake Ohrid (Macedonia) we found individuals of two tardigrade taxa: Isohypsibius sp. and Dactylobiotus sp. This paper provides the first record of Tardigrada from Macedonia (Lake Ohrid) and is the first report of these animals on sponges.

Keywords: Dactylobiotus sp., Isohypsibius sp., Lake Ohrid, water bears

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