Holotype (female): Russia, Siberia, Krasnoyarsk Territory, Achinsk Province, 7 km from Nazarovo, steppe meadow, soil, ca 400 m alt., 57°02'N, 90°39'E, 14.VII.1987, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (SNHM). Paratypes: 8 males and 10 females, same data as holotype (SNHM – 7 paratypes: 1 male and 6 females, ISEA – 6 paratypes: 5 males and 1 female, MSPU – 5 paratypes: 2 males and 3 females).

PAO with 20–23 simple vesicles. Pso formula dorsally 32/033/33343, ventrally 1/000/0000, subcoxae 1 of I–III legs with 1,1,1 pso respectively. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located close together. Psx formula on Abd. sterna: 111100. Th. tergum I with 12–15+12–15 chaetae, chaeta m present. Chaetae s' present on Abd. terga I–III. Manubrial field with 12 chaetae in 3 rows. Claw without lateral denticles.

Holotype (female) length 1.2 mm, length of paratypes: 0.9–1.1 mm (males) and 1.0–1.3 mm (females). Shape of body typical of the genus: cylindrical with strong AS on distinct papillae (Fig. 1). Colour in alcohol yellowish-white. Granulation more or less uniform, distinct. Usually 10–11 grains around each pso.

Figures 1–9. 

Protaphorura abscondita: 1 habitus and dorsal chaetotaxy 2 dorsal side of Ant. IV 3 ventral side of Ant. IV 4 right part of head ventrally 5AIIIO6 tibiotarsal chaetotaxy and claw of leg III 7PAO and anterior cephalic pseudocelli 8 chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV 9 chaetotaxy of Abd. terga IVVI.

Antennae approximately as long as head, their base well marked. Ant. I with 10–11 chaetae, Ant. II with 17–18 chaetae. AIIIO consisting of 5 guard chaetae, 5 papillae, 2 smooth sensory rods, 2 straight and granulated sensory clubs, ventro-lateral microsensillum present (Fig. 5). Ant. IV with subapical organite in unprotected cavity without clear cuticular papilla. Microsensillum on Ant. IV in usual position above second proximal row of chaetae (Fig. 2). Ventrally Ant. IV with numerous chaetae (ca. 58–65) (Fig. 3). Ant. IV with 9–11 well-differentiated sensilla (Fig. 2, 3).

PAO of small length with 20–23 simple vesicles (Fig. 7). Labral formula of chaetae: 4/342. Maxillary outer lobe with simple palp, basal chaeta and with two sublobal hairs. Labial palp of type A. Labium with 6 proximal, 4 basomedian (E, F, G, and f), and 6 basolateral chaetae (a, b, c, d, e, e’). Papillae A-E with 1, 4, 0, 3, 3 guard chaetae respectively.

Pso formula dorsally 32/033/33343, ventrally 1/000/0000. Subcoxae 1 of I–III legs with one pso and one psx each. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located close together, i.e. closer than on Abd. tergum III, both set posteriorly to macrochaeta p5. Psx present on Abd. sterna I–IV (psx formula 0/000/111100). Psp formula dorsally 0/011/1111, ventrally 0/111/01^m1^m1^m, coxae with 1 psp each.

Dorsal chaetotaxy rather symmetrical, as in Fig. 1, 4 and 9. Dorsal chaetae poorly differentiated into macrochaetae and microchaetae. Sensory chaetae s distinct on body. On head p2 chaetae on the same level as p1 and p3. Chaetae p6 on head located anterior to pso b. Th. tergum I with 12–15+12–15 chaetae, chaeta m present (chaetotaxy type i2–3m). Both Th. terga II and III with lateral microsensilla and with 5+5 or 6+6 axial microchaetae. Chaetae s' present on Abd. terga I–III, on Abd. tergum V present or absent. On Abd. tergum IV in axial area between M2 and P2 macrochaetae located 7– 8 chaetae, medial chaeta m0 present (rarely absent) (Fig. 1). Abd. tergum V usually with 1–2 unpaired microchaeta m0 and p0 (sometimes m0 absent) (Fig. 1). Abd. tergum VI with 1–2 medial chaetae a0 and m0 (often a0 absent). Relative position of prespinal microchaetae usually of subparallel type (Fig. 9). M/s ratio on Abd. tergum V as 10.5–11.4/9.0–9.5, (AS = 10). AS 1.2–1.3 times longer than inner edge of claw and 2.9–3.0 times longer than their basal diameter.

Chaetotaxy of ventral side of head as in Fig. 4. Perilabial area with 4+4 a-chaetae (Fig. 4). Postlabial chaetae 5+5 along ventral groove. Th. sterna I–III with 1+1, 2+2, 2+2 chaetae respectively. VT with ca. 7–9+7–9 chaetae, and 2 chaetae at base. Chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV as in Fig. 8. Furcal rudiment: cuticular fold (located near the middle of sternum) with 2+2 dental microchaetae in 2 rows. Chaetotaxy of manubrial field rather stable: 4 chaetae present in ma-row, 4 chaetae in mm-row and 4 chaetae in mp-row (Fig. 8). MVO absent. Each lateral anal valves with a0, 2a1 and 1-2a2; upper anal valve with chaetae a0, 2a2, 2b1, 2b2, c0, 2c1 and 2c2 (as in P. jernika, Fig. 58).

Subcoxae 1 of I, II and III legs with 5, 7, 6 chaetae, subcoxae 2 with 1, 5, 5, coxae with 3, 10, 14, trochanters with 11, 11, 10, femora with 17 each, tibiotarsi with four rows of chaetae (distal whorl (A+T)+B+C): 11+8+3, 11+8+3, 11+8+4 chaetae respectively. Claw with very small (rarely without) denticle in 1/2 of inner edge of claw (Fig. 6). Empodial appendage of same length as inner edge of claw, without basal lamella (Fig. 6).

The name of the new species refers to the Latin absconditus (hidden, concealed).

P. abscondita sp. n. is characterized by a unique formula of dorsal pso: 2+2 posterior cephalic pso, 3+3 pso on Th. terga II and III and Abd. tergum V. Among seven known species with 3+3 pso on Th. terga II and III, the new species is most similar to the siberian P. tundricola (Martynova, 1976), P. submersa Kaprus’ & Pomorski, 2008 and P. merita Kaprus’ & Pomorski, 2008 due to number of pso on Abd. terga. P. abscondita sp. n. differs from all these species by the 9-11 well differentiated sensilla on Ant. IV. Additionally, it differs from P. merita by the absence of cauliflower like papilla on the tip of antenna and 1+1 ventral pso in posterolateral position on head. From P. submersa, the new species differs by having 3 pso on the base of antennae (4(5) pso in P. submersa) and from P. tundricola by relative position of prespinal microchaetae on Abd.6 (distinctly convergent type in P. tundricola and subparallel type in P. abscondita).

Holotype (female): Russia, N-E Altai, Turochak Region, Altyn-Tu Mt. Ridge, Archa Mt, mountain shrub tundra (=jernik tundra) with Betula rotundifolia, moss, 1700–1800 m alt., 51°31'N, 87°27'E, 9.VIII.2002, leg. E.V. Sleptsova (ISEA). Paratypes: 2 males, same data as holotype (SNHM).

PAO with 39–44 simple vesicles. Pso formula dorsally 32/033/33342, ventrally 2/000/0001, subcoxae 1 of I–III legs with 1,1,1 pso respectively. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located far from each other. Psx formula on Abd. sterna: 111000. Th. tergum I with 12–15+12–15 chaetae, chaeta m present. Chaetae s' absent on Abd. terga I–III and V. Manubrial field with 16–17 chaetae in 4 rows. Claw without lateral denticles.

Holotype (female) length 1.8 mm, length of paratypes: 1.4 mm (males). Shape of body typical for the genus: cylindrical with strong AS on distinct papillae (Fig. 10). Colour in alcohol yellowish-white. Granulation distinct, usually slightly coarser on head, Abd. tergum VI and around pso. Usually 9–11 grains around each pso.

Figures 10–17. 

Protaphorura jernika: 10 habitus and dorsal chaetotaxy 11 left part of head ventrally 12 dorsal side of Ant. III–IV 13 chaetotaxy of Th. terga III aand Abd. tergum I 14 ventral side of Ant. IV 15PAO and anterior cephalic pseudocelli 16 tibiotarsal chaetotaxy and claw of leg III 17 chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV.

Antennae slightly shorter than head, their base well marked. Ant. I with 10 chaetae, Ant. II with 18 chaetae. AIIIO consisting of 5 guard chaetae, 5 papillae, 2 smooth sensory rods, 2 straight and granulated sensory clubs, ventro-lateral microsensillum present (Fig. 12). Ant. IV with subapical organite in unprotected cavity without clear cuticular papilla. Microsensillum on Ant. IV in usual position on the level of second proximal row of chaetae. Ant. IV ventrally with very numerous chaetae (ca. 70–75) (Fig. 14). Sensilla indistinct on Ant. IV.

PAO of middle length with 39–44 simple vesicles (Fig. 15). Labral formula of chaetae: 4/342. Maxillary outer lobe with simple palp, basal chaeta and with two sublobal hairs. Labial palp of type A. Labium with 6 proximal, 4 basomedian (E, F, G, and f), and 6 basolateral chaetae (a, b, c, d, e, e’). Papillae A-E with 1, 4, 0, 3, 3 guard chaetae respectively.

Pso formula dorsally 32/033/33342, ventrally 2/000/0001 (Figs 10, 11, 13, 17). Subcoxae 1 of I–III legs with one pso and one psx each. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located far apart, i.e. on similar distance as on Abd. tergum III (Fig. 13). Psx present on Abd. sterna I–III (psx formula 0/000/111000). Psp formula dorsally 0/011/1111, ventrally 0/111/01^m1^m1^m, coxae with 1 psp each.

Dorsal chaetotaxy, slightly asymmetrical and rather plurichaetotic, as in Figs 10 and 13. Dorsal chaetae rather well differentiated into macrochaetae and microchaetae. Sensory chaetae s indistinct on body. On head p1 chaetae are displaced forward in relation to p2–p4 (Fig. 10). Chaetae p6 on head located between pso a and b. Th. tergum I with 12–15+12–15 chaetae, chaeta m present (chaetotaxy type i2–3m). Both Th. terga II and III with lateral microsensilla and with 5+5 or 6+6 axial microchaetae. Chaetae s' absent on Abd. terga I–III and V. On Abd. tergum IV in axial area between M2 and P2 macrochaetae located 8–12 chaetae, medial chaeta m0 present (rarely absent) (Fig. 10). Abd. tergum V usually with 1–2 unpaired microchaeta m0 and p0 (sometimes m0 absent) (Fig. 10). Abd. tergum VI with 1–2 medial chaetae a0 and m0 (rarely a0 absent). Relative position of prespinal microchaetae usually of parallel type (Fig. 10). M/s ratio on Abd. tergum V as 13.6–17.6/5.6–6.9 (AS = 10). AS 1.1 times longer then inner edge of claw and 2.6 times longer then their basal diameter.

Chaetotaxy of ventral side of head as in Fig. 11. Perilabial area with 4+4 a-chaetae (Fig. 11). Postlabial chaetae 5-6+5-6 along ventral groove. Th. sterna I–III with 0+0, 1+1, 1+1 chaetae respectively. VT with ca. 8–9+8–10 chaetae and 1+2 chaetae at base. Furcal rudiment: cuticular fold (located on the anterior edge of sternum) with 2+2 dental microchaetae in 2 rows. Chaetotaxy of manubrial field: 4 chaetae present in ma-row, 4 chaetae in mm’-row, 4 chaetae in mm-row and 4–5 chaetae in mp-row (Fig. 17). MVO absent. Each lateral anal valves with a0, 2a1 and 2a2; upper anal valve with chaetae a0, 2a2, 2b1, 2b2, c0, 2c1 and 2c2 (Fig. 58).

Subcoxae 1 of I, II and III legs with 5–7, 6–8, 5–6 chaetae, subcoxae 2 with 1, 5, 5, coxae with 3, 8, 14, trochanters with 11, 11, 10, femora with 19 each, tibiotarsi with four rows of chaetae (distal whorl (A+T)+B+C): 11+8+3, 11+8+3, 11+8+4 chaetae respectively. Claw with strong denticle in 1/2 of inner edge of claw (Fig. 16). Empodial appendage of same length as inner edge of claw, without basal lamella (Fig. 16).

The name of the new species refers to the Russian “jernik” (= shrub tundra or tundra with dwarf birch).

Protaphorura jernika sp. n. belongs to the group of Protaphorura species with pseudocelli on subcoxa 1 of all legs and 2+2 pso ventrally on head. By the presence of 1+1 pso on Abd. sternum IV, the new species is similar to the P. vasilinae sp. n. Both species differ only in the formula of dorsal pso and ventral psx on Abd. sterna: the former has 32/033/33342 pso and 111000 psx whereas the latter 32/022/33332 pso and 110001^mpsx (see also diagnosis of P. vasilinae sp. n.). P. jernika sp. n. differs from other two Eastern Palearctic representatives of this group, P. merita Kaprus’ & Pomorski, 2008 and P. buryatica Gulgenova & Potapov, 2013 by dorsal pso formula (32/033/33342 in the new species vs 32(3)/012/33342 in buryatica and 43/02(3)2(3)/3335(4,6)3(4) in merita), by the presence of 1+1 pso on abd. sternum IV in the new species and lack in the both other, by the number of vesicles in PAO (39-44 in the new species, 12-13 in buryatica and 16-22 in buryatica).

Holotype (male): Russia, Primorsky Krai, Khasansky district, Barabash village, mixed forest with Quercus, Acer and Juglans, in soil and leave litter, 9.VII.2011, leg. N.A. Ryabinin (SNHM). Paratypes: 6 males and 6 females, same data as holotype (SNHM – 9 paratypes: 5 male and 4 females, ISEA – 3 paratypes: 1 male and 2 females).

PAO with 29–36 simple vesicles. Pso formula dorsally 33/022/33342, ventrally 1/000/0000, subcoxae 1 of I–III legs with 1,0,0 pso respectively. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located close together. Psx formula on Abd. sterna: 100000. Th. tergum I with 11–12+11–12 chaetae, chaeta m present. Chaetae s' absent on Abd. terga I–III and V. Manubrial field with 14–15 chaetae in 3 rows. Claw without lateral denticles.

Holotype (male) length 1.5 mm, length of paratypes: 1.45–1.55 mm (males) and 1.58–1.72 mm (females). Shape of body typical for the genus: cylindrical with strong AS on distinct papillae (Fig. 18). Colour in alcohol yellowish-white. Granulation more or less uniform, distinct. Usually 12–14 grains around each pso.

Figures 18–25. 

Protaphorura nikolai: 18 habitus and dorsal chaetotaxy 19 dorsal side of Ant. III–IV 20 tip of Ant. IV 21PAO and anterior cephalic pseudocelli 22 right part of head ventrally 23 tibiotarsal chaetotaxy and claw of leg III 24 chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV 25 chaetotaxy of Abd. tergum VI.

Antennae approximately as long as head, their base well marked. Ant. I with 11–12 chaetae, Ant. II with 17–18 chaetae. AIIIO consisting of 5 guard chaetae, 5 papillae, 2 smooth sensory rods, 2 straight and granulated sensory clubs, ventro-lateral microsensillum present (Fig. 19). Ant. IV with subapical organite in cavity protected by cuticular papillae (Fig. 20). Microsensillum on Ant. IV situated on level or below of second proximal row of chaetae. Ventrally Ant. IV with numerous chaetae (ca. 68–72). Ant. IV without differentiated sensilla (Fig. 19).

PAO is relatively small with 29–36 simple vesicles (Fig. 21). Labral formula of chaetae: 4/342. Maxillary outer lobe with simple palp, basal chaeta and with two sublobal hairs. Labial palp of type A. Labium with 7 proximal, 4 basomedian (E, F, G, and f), and 6 basolateral chaetae (a, b, c, d, e, e’). Papillae A-E with 1, 4, 0, 3, 3 guard chaetae respectively.

Pso formula dorsally 33/022/33342, ventrally 1/000/0000 (Figs 18, 22, 24). Subcoxae1 of legs I, II and III with 1,0,0 pso respectively. Psx on subcoxae1 of legs I, II and III absent. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located close together, i.e. much closer than on Abd. tergum III, both set posteriorly to macrochaeta p5 (Fig. 18). Ventral psx formula 1/000/100000). Psp formula dorsally 0/011/1111, ventrally 0/111/01^m1^m1^m, coxae with 1 psp each.

Dorsal chaetotaxy slightly asymmerical, chaetae well differentiated into macrochaetae, mesochaetae and microchaetae as in Fig. 18. Sensory chaetae s indistinct on body. On head p2 chaetae on same level as p1 and p3. Chaetae p6 on head located anterior to pso b (Fig. 18). Th. tergum I with 11–12+11–12 chaetae, chaeta m present (chaetotaxy type i2–3m). Both Th. terga II and III with lateral microsensilla and with 4+4 or 5+5 axial microchaetae. Chaetae s' absent on Abd. terga I–III and V. On Abd. tergum IV in axial area between M2 and P2 macrochaetae located 9–11 chaetae, medial chaeta m0 present or absent, p0 present or absent (Fig. 18). Abd. tergum V usually with 1 unpaired microchaeta p0 (m0 absent) (Fig. 18). Abd. tergum VI with 1 medial chaetae m0. Relative position of prespinal microchaetae of distinctly divergent type (Fig. 25). M/s ratio on Abd. tergum V as 33–40/20–22, (AS = 10). AS 0.6–0.7 times as long as inner edge of claw and 2.0 times longer than their basal diameter.

Chaetotaxy of ventral side of head as in Fig. 22. Perilabial area with 4+4 a-chaetae. Postlabial chaetae 5+5 along ventral groove. Th. sterna I–III with 1+1, 2+2, 2+2 chaetae respectively. VT with ca. 8–9+8–9 chaetae, and 2(1)+2(1) chaetae at base. Chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV as in Fig. 22. Furcal rudiment: cuticular fold (located near the middle of sternum) with 2+2 dental microchaetae in 2 rows. Chaetotaxy of manubrial field: 4 chaetae present in ma-row, 6-7 chaetae in mm-row and 4 chaetae in mp-row (Fig. 24). MVO absent. Each lateral anal valves with a0, 2a1 and 2a2; upper anal valve with chaetae a0, 2a2, 2b1, 2b2, c0, 2c1 and 2c2 (as in P. jernika, Fig. 58).

Subcoxae 1 of I, II and III legs with 5–6, 6–7 and 5–6 chaetae respectively, subcoxae 2 with 1, 5, 5, coxae with 3, 11, 13, trochanters with 11, 11, 10, femora with 21, 21, 18, tibiotarsi with four rows of chaetae (distal whorl (A+T)+B+C): 11+8+4, 11+8+4, 11+8+4–5 chaetae respectively. Claw with very strong denticle in the 1/2 of inner edge of claw (Fig. 23). Empodial appendage 0,9–1,0 times as long as inner edge of claw, without basal lamella (Fig. 23).

The species is cordially dedicated to Russian oribatologist Dr. Nikolay Ryabinin, who collected the type material of new species in Primorsky Krai of Russia.

Protaphorura nikolai sp. n. belongs to the group of Protaphorura species with 1,0,0 pseudocelli on subcoxa 1 of I, II and III legs and 1+1 pso on head ventrally. Among Asiatic species this group includes P. zori (Martynova, 1975 in Martynova & Chelnokov, 1975)(although Martynova did not mention subcoxal pso, the examined by us type has 1,0,0 pso on subcoxae), P. brevispinata (Yosii, 1966), P. changbaiensis Sun, Zhang & Wu, 2013, P. mongolica (Martynova, 1975 in Martynova & Chelnokov, 1975), P. sakatoi (Yosii, 1966) and P. maoerensis Sun, Wu & Gao, 2013. Within this group, it shares dorsal pso formula with P. zori but differs from the latter by the presence of inner denticle on claw, the absence of chaeta a0 on Abd. tergum VI (in P. zori inner denticle absent and chaeta a0 present) and by arrangement of prespinal chaetae (placed divergently in P. nikolai and convergently in P. zori). Perhaps there are other differences in the morphology of these two species, but P. zori is not well described and needs more detailed study.

Holotype (female): Russia, Siberia, Western Sayan, Oiskii Mt. Range, vicinity of weather station Olenya Rechka, mountain tundra with Betula rotundifolia, Salix sp, Sphagnum sp., 1800 m alt., in moss and soil, 52°48'N, 93°13'E, 27.VI.1990, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (SNHM). Paratypes: 3 females and juvenile, same data as holotype (ISEA – 1 paratype, MSPU – 1 paratype and juvenile).

PAO with 32–34 simple vesicles. Pso formula dorsally 32/011/22232, ventrally 1/000/0000, subcoxae 1 of I–III legs without pso. Psx formula on Abd. sterna: 111000. Th. tergum I with 23–25+23–25 chaetae, one, two or three chaetae m present. Chaetae s' present on Abd. terga I–III and absent or present on Abd. tergum V. Manubrial field with 12–13 chaetae in three rows. Claw with pair of lateral denticles.

Holotype (female) length 2.2 mm, length of paratypes: 2.0–2.3 mm (females). Shape of body typical of the genus: cylindrical with strong AS on distinct papillae (Fig. 26). Colour in alcohol yellowish-white. Granulation more or less uniform, distinct. Usually 7–10 grains around each pso.

Figures 26–32. 

Protaphorura oligopseudocellata: 26 habitus and dorsal chaetotaxy 27PAO and anterior cephalic pseudocelli 28 dorsal side of Ant. IIIIV 29 and 30 distal part of leg III 31 right part of head ventrally 32 chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV.

Antennae as long as the head, their base well marked. Ant. I with 11–12 chaetae, Ant. II with 18 chaetae. AIIIO consisting of 5 guard chaetae, 5 papillae, 2 smooth sensory rods, 2 straight and granulated sensory clubs, ventro-lateral microsensillum present (Fig. 28). Ant. IV with subapical organite in unprotected cavity without clear cuticular papilla. Microsensillum on Ant. IV in usual position above second proximal row of chaetae. Ventrally Ant. IV with numerous chaetae (ca. 74–78). Sensilla indistinct on antennal segment IV (Fig. 28).

PAO relatively small, consisting of 32-34 simple vesicles (Fig. 27). Labral formula of chaetae: 4/342. Maxillary outer lobe with simple palp, basal chaeta and with two sublobal hairs. Labial palp of type A. Labium with 7 proximal, 4 basomedian (E, F, G, and f), and 6 basolateral chaetae (a, b, c, d, e, e’). Papillae A-E with 1, 4, 0, 3, 3 guard chaetae respectively.

Pso formula dorsally 32/011/22232, ventrally 1/000/0000 (Figs 26, 31, 32). Subcoxae 1 of I–III legs without pso and with one psx each. Psx formula 1/000/111000. Th. terga II and III with 1+1, 1+1 psx in lateral position (Fig. 26). Psp formula dorsally 0/011/1111, ventrally 0/111/01^m1^m1^m, coxae with 1 psp.

Dorsal chaetotaxy plurichaetotic, usually with some asymmetry, all dorsal chaetae rather short (except macrochaetae), well differentiated into macro- meso- and microchaetae, as in Fig. 26. Sensory chaetae s indistinct on body. On head p2 chaetae are displaced forward in relation to p1 and p3. Chaetae p6 on head located anterior to pseudocelli b (Fig. 26). Th. tergum I with 23–25+23–25 chaetae, 1–3 chaetae m and 1–2 chaetae i present (chaetotaxy type i(1–2)3–4m(1–3)). Both Th. terga II and III with lateral microsensilla and with 6+6 or 7+7 axial microchaetae. Chaetae s' present on Abd. terga I–III and absent or present on Abd. tergum V (Fig. 26). On Abd. tergum IV in axial area between M2 and P2 macrochaetae located 23–24 chaetae, medial chaetae p0 and m0 present (sometimes these chaetae absent). Abd. tergum V with one unpaired microchaeta p0 (Fig. 26). Abd. tergum VI with medial chaetae m0. Relative position of prespinal microchaetae of convergent type (Fig. 26). M/s ratio on Abd. tergum V as 23.5–23.9/15 (AS = 10). AS 0.7–0.8 times as long as inner edge of claw and 2.3 times longer than their basal diameter.

Chaetotaxy of ventral side of head as in Fig. 31. Perilabial area with 4–5+4–5 a-chaetae. Postlabial chaetae 4-5+4-5 along ventral groove. Thoracic sterna I–III with 1+1, 2–3+2–3, 2–3+2–3 chaetae respectively. VT with ca. 10+10 chaetae, and 2–3 chaetae at base. Chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV as in Fig. 32. Furcal rudiment: cuticular fold (located near the middle of sternum) with 2+2 dental microchaetae in 2 rows. Chaetotaxy of manubrial field: 4–5 chaetae present in ma-row, 4 chaetae in mm-row, 4 chaetae in mp-row (in adult specimens) (Fig. 32). Each lateral anal valves with a0, 2a1 and 2a2; upper anal valve with chaetae a0, 2a2, 2b1, 2b2, c0, 2c1 and 2c2 (as in P. jernika, Fig. 58).

Subcoxae 1 of I, II and III legs with 6–8, 7–8, 7–9 chaetae, subcoxae 2 with 1, 5, 5, coxae with 4, 10, 15, trochanters with 13, 15, 15, femora with 21, 23, 22–23, tibiotarsi with four rows of chaetae (distal whorl (A+T)+B+C): 11+8+3–4, 11+8+5–6, 11+8+5 chaetae respectively. Claw with strong denticle in 1/2 of inner edge of claw and pair of lateral denticles (Figs 29, 30). Empodial appendage 0.9 times as long as inner edge of claw, without basal lamella (Fig. 29).

The name of the new species refers to the Latin oligo (a few) and pseudocellus (false ocellus) ‒ characteristic structure in Onychiuroidea.

Protaphorura oligopseudocellata sp. n. is characterized by the reduced number of pso on body dorsally – 32/011/22232. Only four species with 1+1 pso on Th. tergum III is currently known: P. januarii (Weiner, 1977), P. stiriaca (Stach, 1946), P. pseudostyriaca (Loksa, 1964) and P. pseudarmata (Folsom, 1917). The first three species are described from Europe and the last one from North America. Among these species P. oligopseudocellata sp. n. is probably the most similar to P. januarii and P. stiriaca due to the absence of pso on subcoxa 1 of all legs and some similarity of dorsal pso formulae. The new species can be easily distinguished from these species by the number of pso on Abd. terga I–V (22232 in P. oligopseudocellata sp. n., 23232 in P. januarii and 33232 in P. stiriaca), the plurichaetotic chaetotaxy and by the presence of strong lateral denticles on claws and 1+1 pso on head ventrally (lateral denticles and pso absent in P. januarii and P. stiriaca).

Lectotype (female) (by present designation): Afghanistan, ”Tchehel Sotoun” Cave near Jalrayz, W Kabul, with the original label: “Tchehel Sotoun-Höhle (nahe Djalrez), 20.III.1959”, leg. Dr. K. Lindberg. Paralectotypes: 1 male and 8 females, same data as lectotype.

Lectotype (female) length 1.9 mm, length of paralectotypes: 1.8 mm (male) and 1.8–2.2 mm (females). Shape of body typical of the genus: cylindrical with strong AS on distinct papillae. Colour in alcohol white. Granulation more or less uniform, distinct. Usually 11–13 grains around each pso.

Antennae slightly shorter than head, their base well marked. Ant. I with 10 chaetae, Ant. II with 16–18 chaetae. AIIIO consisting of 5 guard chaetae, 5 papillae, 2 smooth sensory rods, 2 straight and granulated sensory clubs, ventro-lateral microsensillum present. Ant. IV with subapical organite in unprotected cavity without clear cuticular papilla. Microsensillum on Ant. IV in usual position above second proximal row of chaetae. Sensilla indistinct on Ant. IV.

PAO of middle length, consisting of 24–38 simple vesicles. Labral formula of chaetae: 4/342. Maxillary outer lobe with simple palp, basal chaeta and with two sublobal hairs. Labial palp of type A. Chaetotaxy of labium invisible.

Pso formula dorsally 32/022(3)/33(2)3(2)43, ventrally 2/000/0001 (Figs 33–36). Subcoxae 1 of I–III legs without pso. Submedial pseudocelli a and b on Abd. terga I–II located far apart, i.e. on similar distance as on Abd. tergum III (Fig. 33). Psx formula 0/000/11?00?.

Figures 33–36. 

Protaphorura ombrophila: 33 position of pso and p-chaetae in midsection of Abd. tergum I 34 position of p-chaetae on posterior margin of head 35 chaetotaxy of Abd. terga V–VI 36 chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV.

Dorsal chaetotaxy rather symmetrical. Dorsal chaetae well differentiated into macrochaetae and microchaetae. On head p2 chaetae are displaced forward in relation to p1 and p3 (Fig. 34). Chaetae p6 on head located between pseudocelli a and b. Th. tergum I with 8–10+8–10 chaetae, chaeta m absent (chaetotaxy type i2-). Both Th. terga II and III with lateral microsensilla. Chaetae s' absent on Abd. terga I–III and V (Fig. 35). On Abd. tergum IV in axial area between M2 and P2 macrochaetae located 6–7 chaetae, medial chaeta m0 present. Abd. tergum V usually with 1 unpaired microchaeta m0 (p0 absent) (Fig. 35). Abd. tergum VI with 1 medial chaetae m0. Relative position of prespinal microchaetae usually divergent or parallel type (Fig. 35). M/s ratio on Abd. tergum V as 18.2/8.8 (AS = 10). AS 0.8–0.9 times as long as inner edge of claw and 2.8-3.4 times longer then their basal diameter.

Perilabial area with 4+4 a-chaetae. Th. sterna I–III without chaetae. VT with ca. 8–9+8–9 chaetae, and 1 chaetae at base. Furcal rudiment: cuticular fold (located on the anterior edge of the sternum) with 2+2 dental microchaetae in 2 rows. Chaetotaxy of manubrial field: 4 chaetae present in ma-row, 2 chaetae in mm’ -row, 4 chaetae in mm-row and 5 chaetae in mp-row (Fig. 36). MVO absent. Each lateral anal valves with a0 and 2a1 (a2 absent); upper anal valve with chaetae a0, 2a2, 2b1, 2b2, c0, 2c1 and 2c2 (as in P. vasilinae, Fig. 59).

Subcoxae 1 of I, II and III legs with 5, 6, 5–6 chaetae, tibiotarsi with four rows of chaetae (distal whorl (A+T)+B+C): 11+8+3, 11+8+3, 11+8+4 chaetae respectively. Claw with very small denticle in 1/2 of inner edge of claw. Empodial appendage 0.7–0.8 times as long as inner edge of claw, without basal lamella.

Protaphorura ombrophila has been described by Stach (1960) from Afghanistan about 55 years ago, when many important diagnostic characters remained unknown. Latter Yosii (1966), during his research on some Collembola of Afghanistan, India and Ceylon, discovered three females of the species in Afghanistan and wrote: “They (i.e. P. ombrophila) coincide fairly well with the detailed description of Stach. However, the posterior margin of head has 3+3, 3+2 and 2+2 pseudocelli. In other respects no difference is to be found”. Parimuchová and Kováč in their recent publication (2016) devoted to the critical analysis of Palearctic species of the genus Protaphorura and assigned this species to the group “species dubia”. Here we present first redescription of P. ombrophila based on characters currently used in taxonomy of Protaphorura. See also the discussion in P. tuvinica sp. n.

Holotype (male): Russia, Siberia, Western Sayan, Oiskii Mt. Range, vicinity of weather station Olenya Rechka, mountain tundra, 1800 m alt., in moss and soil, 52°48'N, 93°13'E, 10.VII.1990, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (SNHM). Paratypes: 2 females and 2 juveniles, same data as holotype (SNHM – 1 paratype female, ISEA – 1 paratype female and 2 juveniles); 2 females: Russia, Krasnoyarsk Territory, Khakasia, Kuznetskii Alatau Mt. Range, ca 5 km NW of settl. Kommunar, mountain tundra with Dryas oxyodontha, 1500 m alt., 54°20'N, 89°17'E, 24.VII.1990, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (ISEA); 2 males, female and 2 juveniles: Russia, Kuznetskii Alatau Mt. Range, Kemerovo Prov., 10 km NW of Mezhdurechensk, mixed taiga with rich herbaceous cover, under Abies sibirica, soil, 500-600 m alt., 53°45'N, 88°00'E, 1.VII.1982, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (SNHM); male: Russia, Salair Range, 130 km SE of Novosibirsk, 11 km N of Mirnyi, chern forest, 500 m alt., soil, 54°38'N, 84°45'E, 7.VI.1972, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (MPSU); female subadult: Russia, West Siberia, 25 km S of Novosibirsk, Akademgorodok, glade in birch forest, soil, 400 m alt., 54°49'N, 83°08'E, 7.X.1994, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (SNHM).

PAO with 41–48 simple vesicles. Pso formula dorsally 32/022/33343, ventrally 1/000/0000, subcoxae 1 of I–III legs with 1,1,1 pso respectively. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located far apart. Psx formula on Abd. sterna: 111101^m. Th. tergum I with 18–21+18–21 chaetae, one or two chaetae m present. Chaetae s' present on Abd. terga I–III and V. Manubrial field with 14 chaetae in three rows. Claw with pair of lateral denticles.

Holotype (male) length 2.7 mm, length of paratypes: 2.7–2.9 mm (females). Other specimens length: 2.62.7 mm males and 2.8 mm female. Shape of body typical of the genus: cylindrical with strong AS on distinct papillae (Fig. 37). Colour in alcohol yellowish-white. Granulation more or less uniform, distinct. Usually 7–9 grains around each pso.

Figures 37–44. 

Protaphorura sayanica: 37 habitus and dorsal chaetotaxy 38 right part of head ventrally 39 tip of Ant. IV 40 dorsal side of Ant. IIIIV 41PAO and anterior cephalic pseudocelli 42 and 43 distal part of leg III 44 chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV.

Antennae as long as the head, their base well marked. Ant. I with 11 chaetae, Ant. II with 16–19 chaetae. AIIIO consisting of 5 guard chaetae, 5 papillae, 2 smooth sensory rods, 2 straight and granulated sensory clubs, ventro-lateral microsensillum present (Fig. 40). Ant. IV with subapical organite in unprotected cavity without clear cuticular papilla (Fig. 39). Microsensillum on Ant. IV in usual position above second proximal row of chaetae. Ventrally Ant. IV with numerous chaetae (ca. 65–70) (Fig. 40). Sensilla indistinct on Ant. IV (Fig. 40).

PAO large, consisting of 41–48 simple vesicles (Fig. 41). Labral formula of chaetae: 4/342. Maxillary outer lobe with simple palp, basal chaeta and with two sublobal hairs. Labial palp of type A. Labium with 7 proximal, 4 basomedian (E, F, G, and f), and 6 basolateral chaetae (a, b, c, d, e, e’). Papillae A-E with 1, 4, 0, 3, 3 guard chaetae respectively.

Pso formula dorsally 32/022/33343, ventrally 1/000/0000 (Figs 37, 38, 44). Subcoxae 1 of I–III legs with one pso and one psx each. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located far apart, i.e. on similar distance as on Abd. tergum III (Fig. 37). Psx formula 1/000/111101^m. Psp formula dorsally 0/011/1111, ventrally 0/111/01^m1^m1^m, coxae with 1 psp each.

Dorsal chaetotaxy, usually slightly asymmetrical, all dorsal chaetae rather long, well differentiated into macro- meso- and microchaetae, as in Fig. 37. Sensory chaetae s indistinct on body. On head p2 chaetae on the same level as p1 and p3. Chaetae p6 located anterior to pso b on head (Fig. 37). Th. tergum I with 18–21+18–21 chaetae, 1–2 chaetae m and 1–2 chaetae i present (chaetotaxy type i(1–2)2–4m(1–2)). Both Th. terga II and III with lateral microsensilla and with 5+5 or 6+6 axial microchaetae. Chaetae s' present on Abd. terga I–III and V. On Abd. tergum IV in axial area between M2 and P2 macrochaetae located 15–18 chaetae, medial chaeta p0 present (sometimes p0 absent). Abd. tergum V with one unpaired microchaeta p0 (Fig. 37). Abd. tergum VI with medial chaetae m0. Relative position of prespinal microchaetae of convergent type (Fig. 37). M/s ratio on abdominal tergum V as 18.9–26.6/15.7–20.6 (AS = 10). AS 0.8–1.1 times as long as inner edge of claw and 2.9 times longer than their basal diameter.

Chaetotaxy of ventral side of head as in Fig. 38. Perilabial area with 5(4)+5(4) a-chaetae. Postlabial chaetae 4-5+4-5 along ventral groove. Th. sterna I–III with 1–2+1–2, 2–3+2–3, 2–3+2–3 chaetae respectively. VT with ca. 11–12+11–12 chaetae, and 2–3 chaetae at base. Furcal rudiment: cuticular fold (located near middle of sternum) with 2+2 dental microchaetae in 2 rows. Chaetotaxy of manubrial field: 4 chaetae present in ma-row, 6 chaetae in mm-row, 4 chaetae in mp-row (in adult specimens) (Fig. 44). MVO absent. Each lateral anal valves with a0, 2a1 and 2a2; upper anal valve with chaetae a0, 2a2, 2b1, 2b2, c0, 2c1 and 2c2 (as in P. jernika, Fig. 58).

Subcoxae 1 of I, II and III legs with 7–9, 8–9, 7–8 chaetae, subcoxae 2 with 1, 5, 5, coxae with 4, 10, 12-15, trochanters with 11, 13, 13, femora with 20–21, 20–23, 20–23, tibiotarsi with four rows of chaetae (distal whorl (A+T)+B+C): 11+8+3, 11+8+4–5, 11+8+4–5 chaetae respectively. Claw with strong denticle in 1/2 of inner edge of claw and pair of lateral denticles (Figs 42, 43). Empodial appendage as long as the claw, without basal lamella. (Fig. 43).

The name of the new species refers to the Sayan Mountains in Southern Siberia, an area where the type specimens were collected.

Protaphorura sayanica sp. n. is probably the most similar to such Asiatic Protaphorura species as P. pjasinae (Martynova, 1976), P. microtica (Dunger, 1978) and P. subarctica (Martynova, 1976) due to the presence of the same number of pso on subcoxae 1 of all legs, ventral and dorsal side of head, Th. terga I–II and Abd. terga I–IV. However, P. sayanica sp. n. may easily be distinguished from these species by the number of pso on Abd. tergum V (3+3 pso in the new species and 2+2 pso all other species presented above) and presence of pair of lateral denticles on claw (absent in other four species).

Holotype (male): Russia, S-W Tuva, ca 30 km SW of Mugur-Aksy, upper reaches of Mugur River, Mongun-Taiga Mts, mountain tundra, moss under Betula rotundifolia, 2700 m alt., 50°22'N, 90°05'E, 23.VII.1993, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (SNHM). Paratypes: 10 males, 3 females and 7 juveniles, same data as holotype (SNHM – 6 paratypes: 5 males and 1 female, ISEA – 4 paratypes: 3 males and 1 female, MSPU – 4paratypes: 3 males and 1 female, and 7 juveniles).

PAO with 37–45 simple vesicles. Pso formula dorsally 32/022/33332, ventrally 2/000/0001, subcoxae 1 of I–III legs without pso. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located far apart. Psx formula on Abd. sterna: 110–1001 ^m. Th. tergum I with 9–11+9–11 chaetae, chaeta m absent. Chaetae s' absent on abdominal terga I–III and V. Manubrial field with 19 chaetae in 4 rows. Claw without lateral denticles.

Holotype (male) length 1.9 mm, length of paratypes: 1.7–1.8 mm (males) and 1.9–2.2 mm (females). Shape of body typical for the genus: cylindrical with strong AS on distinct papillae (Fig. 45). Colour in alcohol yellowish-white. Granulation more or less uniform, distinct. Usually 11–12 grains around each pso.

Figures 45–50. 

Protaphorura tuvinica: 45 habitus and dorsal chaetotaxy 46 right part of head ventrally 47 dorsal side of Ant. IIIIV 48PAO and anterior cephalic pseudocelli 49 tibiotarsal chaetotaxy and claw of leg III 50 chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV.

Antennae slightly shorter than head, their base well marked. Ant. I with 9–10 chaetae, Ant. II with 17 chaetae. AIIIO consisting of 5 guard chaetae, 5 papillae, 2 smooth sensory rods, 2 straight and granulated sensory clubs, ventro-lateral microsensillum present (Fig. 47). Ant. IV with subapical organite in unprotected cavity without clear cuticular papilla. Microsensillum on Ant. IV in usual position above second proximal row of chaetae. Ventrally Ant. IV with numerous chaetae (ca. 68–70). Sensilla indistinct on Ant. IV (Fig. 47).

PAO of middle length, consisting of 37–45 simple vesicles (Fig. 48). Labral formula of chaetae: 4/342. Maxillary outer lobe with simple palp, basal chaeta and with two sublobal hairs. Labial palp of type A. Labium with 7 proximal, 4 basomedian (E, F, G, and f), and 6 basolateral chaetae (a, b, c, d, e, e’). Papillae A-E with 1, 4, 0, 3, 3 guard chaetae respectively.

Pso formula dorsally 32/022/33332, ventrally 2/000/0001 (Figs 45, 46, 50). Subcoxae 1 of I–III legs without pso and with one psx each. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located rather far apart, i.e. on similar distance as on Abd. tergum III (Fig. 45). Psx formula 0/000/110(1)01. Psp formula dorsally 0/011/1111, ventrally 0/111/01^m1^m1^m, coxae with 1 psp each.

Dorsal chaetotaxy rather symmetrical and plurichaetotic, chaetae well differentiated into macrochaetae and microchaetae (fig. 45). Sensory chaetae s indistinct on body. On head p2 chaetae displaced forward in relation to p1 and p3. Chaetae p6 on head located between pso a and b (Fig. 45). Th. tergum I with 9–11+9–11 chaetae, chaeta m absent (chaetotaxy type i2-). Both Th. terga II and III with lateral microsensilla and with 5+5 or 6+6 axial microchaetae. Chaetae s' absent on Abd. terga I–III and V. On Abd. tergum IV in axial area between M2 and P2 macrochaetae located 7–8 chaetae, medial chaeta m0 present (Fig. 45). Abd. tergum V usually with 1–2 unpaired microchaeta m0 and p0 (often m0 absent) (Fig. 45). Abd. tergum VI with medial chaetae m0. Relative position of prespinal microchaetae of parallel type (Fig. 45). M/s ratio on Abd. tergum V as 14.6–17.2/4.6–6.2 (AS = 10). AS 0.9–1.0 as long as inner edge of claw and 3.1 times longer than their basal diameter.

Chaetotaxy of ventral side of head as in Fig. 46. Perilabial area with 5+5 a-chaetae (Fig. 46). Postlabial chaetae 5-6+5-6 along ventral groove. Th. sterna I–III without chaetae. VT with ca. 8–9+8–9 chaetae and 2 chaetae at base. Furcal rudiment: cuticular fold (located on the anterior edge of the sternum) with 2+2 dental microchaetae in 2 rows. Chaetotaxy of manubrial field: 5 chaetae present in ma-row, 4 chaetae in mm’-row, 6 chaetae in mm-row and 4 chaetae in mp-row (Fig. 50). MVO absent. Each lateral anal valves with a0 and 2a1 (a2 absent); upper anal valve with chaetae a0, 2a2, 2b1, 2b2, c0, 2c1 and 2c2 (as in P. vasilinae, Fig. 59).

Subcoxae 1 of I, II and III legs with 5–6, 6, 5 chaetae, subcoxae 2 with 1, 5, 5, coxae with 3, 10, 13, trochanters with 11, 12, 10, femora with 20, 20, 19–20, tibiotarsi with four rows of chaetae (distal whorl (A+T)+B+C): 11+8+3, 11+8+3, 11+8+3-4 chaetae respectively. Claw with strong denticle in 1/2 of inner edge of claw (Fig. 49). Empodial appendage of the same length as inner edge of claw, without basal lamella. (Fig. 49).

The name of the new species refers to the Tuva Republic (Russian Federation), the place where the type specimens were collected.

Protaphorura tuvinica sp. n. belongs to the group of Protaphorura species without pseudocelli on subcoxa 1 of all legs and with 2+2 pso ventrally on head: P. ombrophila (Stach, 1960), P. kopetdagi Pomorski, 1994, P. salsa Kaprus’, Paśnik & Weiner, 2014, P. bakhchisaraica Kaprus’, Paśnik & Weiner, 2014 and P. ajudagi Pomorski, Skarżyński & Kaprus’, 1998. All these species inhabit the territory of southern Palearctic from Crimean Peninsula to central Asia and southern Siberia.

The new species has the pseudocellar formula the same as in kopetdagi (32/022/33332) when the other posses the different number of pseudocelli. The males of P. kopetdagi, P. salsa, P. bakhchisaraica and P. ajudagi are armed with the male ventral organ whereas the new species and P. ombrophila have males devoided of the organ. P. tuvinica differs also from the latter species by the number of pso on Abd. terga IV-V (3,2 in the new species and 4,2 in P. ombrophila).

Holotype (female): Russia, West Siberia, 25 km S of Novosibirsk, Akademgorodok, lawn, soil, 400 m alt., 54°49'N, 83°08'E, 2.X.1994, leg. S.K. Stebaeva (SNHM). Paratypes: 7 females and 6 juveniles, same data as holotype (SNHM – 3 paratype females and 3 juveniles, ISEA – 4 paratype females and 3 juveniles); 2 females and 3 juveniles: Russia, N-E Altai, Turochak Region, meadow, soil, 11.VI.2002, leg. E. Sleptsova (SNHM).

PAO with 32–36 simple vesicles. Pso formula dorsally 32/022/33332, ventrally 2/000/0001, subcoxae 1 of I–III legs with 1,1,1 pso respectively. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located far apart. Psx formula on Abd. sterna: 110001^m. Th. tergum I with 10–11+10– 11 chaetae, chaeta m absent. Chaetae s' absent on Abd. terga I–III and present on Abd. tergum V. Manubrial field with 25–28 chaetae in 6 rows. Claw without lateral denticles.

Holotype (female) length 1.5 mm, length of paratypes: 1.4–1.7 mm (females). Shape of body typical of the genus: cylindrical with strong AS on distinct papillae (Fig. 51). Colour in alcohol yellowish-white. Granulation more or less uniform, distinct. Usually 10–12 grains around each pso.

Figures 51–57. 

Protaphorura vasilinae: 51 habitus and dorsal chaetotaxy 52AIIIO53 ventral side of Ant. IV 54PAO and anterior cephalic pseudocelli 55 tibiotarsal chaetotaxy and claw of leg III 56 right part of head ventrally 57 chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV.

Antennae slightly shorter than the head, their base well marked. Ant. I with 10 chaetae, Ant. II with 16 chaetae. AIIIO consisting of 5 guard chaetae, 5 papillae, 2 smooth sensory rods, 2 straight and granulated sensory clubs, ventro-lateral microsensillum present (Fig. 52). Ant. IV with subapical organite in unprotected cavity without clear cuticular papilla (Fig. 53). Microsensillum on antennal segment IV in usual position above second proximal row of chaetae. Ventrally Ant. IV with numerous chaetae (ca. 50–55). Ant. IV with 8–11 slightly differentiated sensilla (Fig. 53).

PAO of middle length, consisting of 32–36 simple vesicles (Fig. 54). Labral formula of chaetae: 4/342. Maxillary outer lobe with simple palp, basal chaeta and with two sublobal hairs. Labial palp of type A. Labium with 7 proximal, 4 basomedian (E, F, G, and f), and 6 basolateral chaetae (a, b, c, d, e, e’). Papillae A-E with 1, 4, 0, 3, 3 guard chaetae respectively.

Pso formula dorsally 32/022/33332, ventrally 2/000/0001 (Figs 51, 56, 57). Subcoxae 1 of I– III legs with one pso and one psx each. Submedial pso a and b on Abd. terga I–II located far apart, i.e. on similar distance as on Abd. tergum III (Fig. 51). Psx present on Abd. sterna I–II and VI (psx formula 0/000/110001^m). Psp formula dorsally 0/011/1111, ventrally: 0/111/01^m1^m1^m , coxae with 1 psp each.

Dorsal chaetotaxy rather symmetrical, as in Fig. 51. Dorsal chaetae well differentiated into macrochaetae and microchaetae. Sensory chaetae s indistinct on body. On head p2 chaetae are displaced forward in relation to p1 and p3. Chaetae p6 located between pseudocelli a and b on head. Th. tergum I with 10–11+10–11 chaetae, chaeta m absent (chaetotaxy type i2–3-). Both Th. terga II and III with lateral microsensilla and with 5+5 or 6+6 axial microchaetae. Chaetae s' absent on Abd. terga I–III and present on Abd. tergum V. On Abd. tergum IV in axial area between M2 and P2 macrochaetae located 7–8 chaetae, medial chaeta m0 present (Fig. 51). Abd. tergum V usually with 2 unpaired microchaeta m0 and p0 (sometimes m0 absent) (Fig. 51). Abd. tergum VI with medial chaetae m0. Relative position of prespinal microchaetae of subparallel type (Fig. 51). M/s ratio on abdominal tergum V as 14.9–16/5.6–5.2 (AS = 10). AS 1.1 times longer than inner edge of claw and 3.1 times longer than their basal diameter.

Chaetotaxy of ventral side of head as in Fig. 56. Perilabial area with 4+4 a-chaetae. Postlabial chaetae 4–5+4–5 along ventral groove. Th. sterna I–III without chaetae. VT with ca. 8–9+8–9 chaetae, and 2 chaetae at base. Chaetotaxy of Abd. sternum IV as in Fig. 57. Furcal rudiment: cuticular fold (located on the anterior edge of the sternum) with 2+2 dental microchaetae in 2 rows. Chaetotaxy of manubrial field: 4 chaetae present in ma-row, 4 chaetae in ma’-row, 4–5 chaetae in mm’’-row, 5–6 chaetae in mm’-row, 4 chaetae in mm-row and 4–5 chaetae in mp-row (in adult specimens) (Fig. 56). MVO absent. Each lateral anal valves with a0 and 2a1 (a2 absent); upper anal valve with chaetae a0, 2a2, 2b1, 2b2, c0, 2c1 and 2c2 (Fig. 59).

Figures 58–59. 

Chaetotaxy of anal valves: 58 Protaphorura jernika 59 Protaphorura vasilinae.

Subcoxae 1 of I, II and III legs with 5, 6–7, 6 chaetae, subcoxae 2 with 1, 5, 4, coxae with 3, 10–11, 13, trochanters with 11, 11, 10, femora with 18, 18, 18, tibiotarsi with four rows of chaetae (distal whorl (A+T)+B+C): 11+8+3, 11+8+3, 11+8+4 chaetae respectively. Claw with strong denticle in the 1/2 of inner edge of claw (Fig. 55). Empodial appendage of the same length as inner edge of claw, without basal lamella. (Fig. 55).

The species is cordially dedicated to Vasilina, a granddaughter of Dr. Sophya Stebaeva.

The same number of pso on body ventrally (2+2 on head and 1+1 on Abd. sternum V), the presence of pseudocelli on subcoxae 1 of all legs, 2+2 posterior cephalic pso and 2+2 pso on Abd. tergum V allow suggesting a close similarity between P. vasilinae sp. n. and P. jernika sp. n. (see also discussion of P. jernika sp. n.). These species distinctly differ in the number of pso on Th. terga II–III and Abd. tergum IV (2+2,2+2 and 3+3 in P. vasilinae vs 3+3,3+3 and 4+4 in P. jernica respectively), in the formula of psx on Abd. sterna (110001m in P. vasilinae vs 111000 in P. jernica) and in the chaetotaxy of Th. tergum I (chaetotaxy type i2–3- in P. vasilinae vs i2–3m in P. jernica) and Abd. tergum V (s’ present in P. vasilinae vs s’ absent in P. jernica).