A revision of Hong Kong harvestmen : biodiversity, ecological preferences and geographical distribution

Opiliones, or harvestmen, is a common animal found throughout the world, there are currently over 6,650 species worldwide but the actual number is estimated to exceed 10,000, making it the third largest order in the class Arachnida. Despite its diversity, it is a rather understudied group. In Hong Kong, there are four described species, but the most recent relevant literature dates back to the at least the early 20th century. This thesis focuses on two common species found in Hong Kong: one previously described species (Heterobiantes geniculatus) and one new species (Pseudoleiobunum lutulentum sp. nov.). I employ an innovative integrative taxonomy approach, which involves a mix of modern techniques such as electron microscopy and phylogenetic analysis, which not only provides a better understanding into harvestman biology, but also provides a more robust analysis which leads to more precision in species delimitation. The work accomplished in this study will undoubtedly be useful to future harvestman-related studies in Hong Kong and Asia. Taxonomic protocols established in this research can be referenced and used to study other taxa, such as spiders and scorpions. This thesis ultimately showcases the importance of taxonomy, as it lays groundwork for further biological studies.