, a New Tardigrade Species in the Complex from China.

In this paper we describe , a new tardigrade species of the complex from southern China. We used the traditional morphology-based taxonomic analysis, supported by detailed morphometrics, light microscopy imaging, scanning electron microscopy, and analysis of four genetic markers (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, and ITS-2). sp. nov. is characterized by eggs with large, conical processes, each surrounded by six (only sometimes five) hexagonal areolae. Based on the morphological characters of the animals (two macroplacoids, one microplacoid, porous curicle, Y-shaped claws) as well as genetic data, we demonstrate the new species to be a member of the complex. However, it differs specifically from , , and mainly by the absence of sparse granulation between legs III and IV. It also differs from mostly by the presence of meshes within the entire egg process wall. Finally, the new species can be easily distinguished from by the presence of granulation visible in light microscopy in all legs.