# Collembola from the Gypsum Karst of Sorbas (Almería, Spain), with Descriptions of Three New Species

## TL;DR

This study explores Collembola in Spanish gypsum caves, discovering three new species and emphasizing the importance of these ecosystems for biodiversity.

## Contribution

The paper describes three new Collembola species and improves taxonomic understanding through detailed morphological analysis.

## Key findings

- 25 Collembola species were identified, including three new to science.
- Symphypleona and Entomobryomorpha were the most abundant groups in the cave complex.
- The study highlights the need for conservation and advanced imaging in subterranean taxonomy.

## Abstract

The Yesos de Sorbas cave complex (Almería, Spain) hosts a rich diversity of Collembola, small arthropods essential for ecosystem function. Over seven years, we conducted 83 visits, collecting 7875 specimens from four orders. The most abundant groups were Symphypleona and Entomobryomorpha, representing nine families. A total of 25 species were identified, including 21 known and 4 newly described ones. This study, based on microscopic morphological analysis, enhances taxonomic knowledge and cave ecology. The fragility of gypsum caves highlights the need for conservation efforts. It also underscores caves as biodiversity reservoirs, sheltering unique and sometimes undiscovered species. Ongoing biological exploration in these environments may reveal additional species, further enriching our understanding of subterranean life.

The gypsum karst of Sorbas (Almería, Spain) is home to a diverse community of Collembola. Over seven years of sampling, 7875 specimens were collected from 83 cave visits, representing four orders: Symphypleona (5251 specimens), Entomobryomorpha (2552), Poduromorpha (32), and Neelipleona (29). A total of 25 species were identified. The most abundant are listed in descending order of abundance: Pygmarrhopalites ruizporteroae sp. nov., Pseudosinella najtae, Pygmarrhopalites subbifidus, Troglopedetes machadoi, Pseudosinella sexocellata sp. nov., Pygmarrhopalites torresi sp. nov., and Heteromurus major. Additionally, partial redescriptions of Pseudosinella najtae and Troglopedetes machadoi are provided. This research enhances the taxonomic framework of subterranean Collembola and provides new insights into species differentiation and adaptation. The methodologies applied allow for high-resolution morphological characterization, essential for species delimitation. The results highlight the potential for further discoveries in gypsum caves and emphasize the need for advanced imaging techniques in Collembola taxonomy.