Inflatisoma asymmetrica

“asymmetrically inflated body”

Kingdom
Microsynthera
Phylum
Plasticae
Class
Occlupanida
Order
Orthogonidectes
Family
Haplognathidae
Genus
Inflatisoma
Species
I. asymmetrica
External morphology:

Swollen curved lateral edges, flat top. 21.5 mm x 21.3 mm.

This distinctive occlupanid has several traits unique to its species. First, it has broadly curved lateral edges giving it a nearly orbicular shape. Secondly, it also has an asymmetrically-arranged oral groove, making one oral hook decidedly larger than the other. Inflatisoma asymmetrica has been observed on bread rolls in NSW Australia. No theories have yet been put forth to explain its unique morphology. No markings. Has only been observed in the Australian region. Found on the ground in Canberra, Australia, by D. Lubbock.