Terrestrial nematodes from the Maritime Antarctic.

Area of Science:

• * Terrestrial Nematology
• * Antarctic Soil Ecology
• * Biodiversity and Biogeography

Background:

• * Soil nematodes are crucial components of Antarctic terrestrial micro-food webs.
• * Current knowledge of Antarctic nematode species diversity and distribution remains incomplete.
• * Fragmented taxonomic studies hinder biogeographical assessments, including endemicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To summarize and review the nematode fauna of the Maritime Antarctic region.
• * To provide a comprehensive species list and assess the endemicity and distribution of Antarctic nematodes.
• * To identify research gaps and patterns in the study of Antarctic nematode biodiversity.

Main Methods:

• * Comprehensive literature review of published studies on terrestrial nematodes in the Maritime Antarctic up to April 2023.
• * Compilation of a species list, including genera, families, and orders.
• * Analysis of species distribution, endemicity, and habitat associations based on existing data.

Main Results:

• * A total of 44 nematode species from 21 genera, 16 families, and eight orders were identified in the Maritime Antarctic.
• * Most species and four genera (Antarctenchus, Pararhyssocolpus, Amblydorylaimus, Enchodeloides) are endemic, indicating an autochthonous and unique fauna.
• * Species distribution is largely limited, with only two species found in over 50% of studied sites; research effort is unevenly distributed across locations.

Conclusions:

• * The nematode fauna of the Maritime Antarctic is unique and largely endemic, supporting its distinct biogeographical status.
• * Uneven research effort has led to knowledge gaps, particularly in understanding the full extent of species distribution and endemicity.
• * Further taxonomic and ecological studies are needed to fully characterize Antarctic nematode biodiversity and its role in soil ecosystems.