A new and remarkable troglobitic Lepidocampa Oudemans, 1890 species from La Réunion Island, with a discussion on troglobiomorphic adaptations in campodeids (Diplura)

Abstract

A description of a new troglobitic Lepidocampa species from La Réunion Island is given. Certain taxonomical attributes of this new species suggest that the subgenera traditionally established within Lepidocampa genus should be eliminated. Next, the main troglobiomorphic features in campodeid diplurans (large body size, long appendages, high number of antennomeres and cercal articles, presence of lateral crests and laminar processes on telotarsus, high number of complex antennal sensilla, and absence of a seasonal reproductive cycle) are reviewed in order to clarify their adaptive value to the subterranean milieu. Finally, the growth of cerci in relation to body size in campodeids is explored using data compiled from the literature and standardised major axis regression analysis. A large body and long appendages may be especially relevant in campodeids when dwelling in the subterranean fissures. Yet, the allometric pattern of cerci length in relation to body size among subfamilies points to a phylogenetic signal, probably related to the habitat preferences of each group, and which suggests the importance of the physical space in which the different families preferentially dwell.