A new oligochaeta record for Türkiye, Rhyacodrilus falciformis Bretscher, 1901 (Annelida: Naididae: Rhyacodrilinae)

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to contribute to the aquatic Oligochaeta fauna of Türkiye. The study area selected for this research is Karasu Stream, located in the Black Sea Region of Türkiye, in the province of Sinop. Benthic macroinvertebrate samples were collected on a monthly basis between February 2013 and January 2014 from 10 selected stations in the study area. As a result of the study, Rhyacodrilus falciformis Bretscher, 1901 is reported as a new record for the Oligochaeta fauna of Türkiye. Besides being recognized as a new record species, this record also extends the species' distribution area to the Asian part of Türkiye. Additionally, this study provides detailed information on the biological, ecological, and morphometric characteristics, as well as the distribution of R. falciformis, identified as a new record for the fauna of Türkiye.