A new species of Trichorhina Budde-Lund (Oniscidea, Platyarthridae) for the Colombian Caribbean

The genus Trichorhina Budde-Lund is widely distributed across the Neotropical region, with several species exhibiting adaptations to subterranean and endogean environments. Here, we describe a new species of anophthalmic terrestrial isopod from the Colombian Caribbean. The species was collected in the marshy system of the lower Sinú subregion, in the municipality of Momil, Department of Córdoba. It inhabits grassland areas used for livestock and was found exclusively under dry cattle manure. The morphological characteristics of new species distinguish it from its congeners, particularly in the structure of the mandibles, maxilla and male pleopods. Additionally, an identification key for Trichorhina species recorded in Colombia is provided. This discovery represents the first record of an anophthalmic Trichorhina species in Colombia and the third in the Caribbean region. Given the ongoing anthropogenic disturbances in the lower Sinú wetlands, including livestock farming, dam construction and agrochemical use, the conservation status of this species requires further assessment. The findings highlight the need for habitat preservation and additional studies on the ecological role of isopods in tropical wetland ecosystems.http://www.zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:618CC104-37C0-4095-BEC3-B20A1F8C2A6E