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

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: <i>Pygmarrhopalites ruizporteroae</i> sp. nov., <i>Pseudosinella najtae</i>, <i>Pygmarrhopalites subbifidus</i>, <i>Troglopedetes machadoi</i>, <i>Pseudosinella sexocellata</i> sp. nov., <i>Pygmarrhopalites torresi</i> sp. nov., and <i>Heteromurus major</i>. Additionally, partial redescriptions of <i>Pseudosinella najtae</i> and <i>Troglopedetes machadoi</i> 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.