Spelaeobochica mahnerti, a new cave-dwelling pseudoscorpion from Brazil (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones: Bochicidae), with comments on the troglomorphism of the Brazilian bochicid species.

ABSTRACT

Spelaeobochica mahnerti sp. n., found in a limestone cave located in the municipality of Monjolos (Minas Gerais state, Southeastern Brazil), is described. It differs from congeneric species mainly by the rallum with 3 apically dentate blades, the position of the trichobothrium ib in the far distal half of the hand dorsum (near the base of fixed finger), the smooth subterminal setae, and by the arolia that are a little longer than the claws. A key to the species of Spelaeobochica is provided, as well as information on the habitat and threats for this new species. We further discuss troglomorphic traits in Brazilian species of Bochicidae.