A New species of Entomobrya from Northern Algeria (Collembola: Entomobryidae)

Abstract

Two species of Entomobrya were found among 288 specimens of Collembola sampled in northern Algeria. The identification of the Entomobrya species requires some precautions and consideration of characters beyond color pattern. Preliminary identifications suggested the presence of E. mauretanica Handschin, 1925 (new status) and E. clitellaria Guthrie, 1903, but a detailed examination of the specimens assigned to E. clitellaria showed that a new species was involved which is described here. Entomobrya mauretanica has only been collected once before, was described inadequately, and is redescribed here.