Meeting Abstract

P2.31  Jan. 5  First contribution to the knowledge of the terrestrial Tardigrada at Puerto Rico: density, abundance and species richness ALGAZE GONZALEZ, Isabel M.*; THOMAS, Richard; University of Puerto Rico; University of Puerto Rico isabel_algaze@yahoo.com

Tardigrade species have long fascinated scientist for their peculiar ability to survive unfavorable environmental conditions by entering one of five latent states (cryptobiosis). These micro-metazoans are able to extend their lifespan by going in and out of this cryptobiotic state. Tardigrades� slow movement and miniscule size suggest this animal is interstitial but they can colonize many humid and aquatic habitats. Tardigrada have worldwide distribution and due to scarce data their biogeography is generally unknown. Distribution of this phylum in the tropics is not completely known because it is considered poorly suited for the development of this phylum. The main objective was to investigate Puerto Ricos� tardigrade density, abundance and species richness which have not been studied before. Species dissemination on terrestrial communities can be attributed to abiotic factors (water and wind) and to biotic factors like snails which are considered in my investigation. Tardigades were obtained from diluted snail feces; different snail species (Caracolus caracolla and Polydontes acutangula) were collected at two different rain forests (El Yunque and Toro Negro) at the same elevation. The most abundant genera were Echiniscus, Calohypsibius and Eohypsibius.