An integrative taxonomic study reveals carychiid microsnails of the troglobitic genus Zospeum in the Eastern and Dinaric Alps (Gastropoda, Ellobioidea, Carychiinae)

摘要: The minute snails of the troglobitic genus Zospeum are known from southeastern Alps through Dinarides and Pyrenees to Cantabrian Mountains. majority has been described northernmost region Southeast Europe, geographical focus our study. taxonomic value few available morphological shell characters debated for nearly as long is known. Recent results genetic studies questioned established system based on in 1970s, with one species (Z. isselianum) appearing be polyphyletic. Here, we present a comprehensive revision Alpine Dinaride regions, using an integrative approach including methods, morphometry, X-ray micro computer tomography (micro-CT), SEM. We reveal 25 describe 5 new science. Genetic analysis separated into five clades, strongly challenging previously valid revealing several various methods used characterization often proved useful separating showing high incidence cryptic speciation genus. Radular investigation, SEM, uncovered insights about configuration radular ribbon within well Zospeum’s dentitional affinity Ellobioidea.