Importance of the mesovoid shallow substratum (MSS) for the knowledge of the Collembola (Arthropoda, Hexapoda) of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park (Spain)

Abstract

This work presents the results of the biodiversity of the Collembola class, obtained from intensive sampling in the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, within what we know as the Mesovoid Shallow Substratum (MSS) generated by colluvial deposits. For this purpose, Subterranean Sampling Devices (SSD) were used. The work brings together the results already published in previous works of the group and proposes an important contribution to the knowledge of the fauna of the group that lives below the surface, unknown until now even though the surface of the area has been sampled by many researchers for decades. The study of 67 916 specimens has allowed the identification of 33 genera and 77 species, 15 of them new to science. Interestingly, many of these new species are the dominant ones for the biotope. Additionally, it succinctly outlines the background that has led to a better understanding of this group of Arthropoda.