Protuberator novaki gen. nov., sp. nov., a new anthroleucosomatid millipede (Diplopoda: Chordeumatida: Anthroleucosomatidae) from the Caucasus

Abstract

The present study describes a new monospecific chordeumatidan genus, Protuberator gen. nov., and its type species, Protuberator novaki gen. nov., sp. nov., from Machakhela National Park in Adjara, Georgia. This new millipede is characterized by a profoundly modified head, with a very large anterior bulge, as well as distinctive tarsi on leg-pair 6, and unique gonopods in male. These unique features make the taxon easily distinguishable, not only from the Caucasian Anthroleucosomatidae, but also from all other members of the family. The new genus and species are described and diagnosed in detail, and illustrations of the male habitus, legs and gonopods are provided. The affinities of the new genus with other members of the family Anthroleucosomatidae and head modifications in general are also briefly discussed.