Aquatic tardigrades in Poland – a review

Abstract The diversity, distribution and ecology of aquatic Tardigrada in Poland remain poorly known. We reviewed the literature focused on tardigrades recognized only 15 taxa which were reported from various freshwater marine habitats. Among them, 12 are three taxa. Hypsibius dujardini is Poland’s most widely-distributed hygrophilous species, but it re presents rather a complex cryptic species their diagnosis requires integrative approaches. Most reports accidental findings mostly water bodies Tatra Mountains or lakes Masurian Lake District. Some also small ponds wastewater treatment plants other regions like Ma?opolska Wielkopolska Provinces.