Chionea
In Korea, Genus Chionea has long been unknown; the website Insects of Korea does not list them. Recently, Chionea (in Korea) have received great interest; so far 4 species have been discovered, Chionea mirabilis, C. crassipes, C. kanenoi and C. deogyusana.
There may be more species out there.
They are usually observed sitting or walking on snow (they are wingless). On KMLA grounds, two species have been observed, C. crassipes (clearly identified by the thick hind legs) and what I posted on this site as C. mirabilis (at that time I did not know of C. kanenoi and C. deogyusana).
I caught one individual, which is presently examined by Dr. Lee Kang Woon at Holoce.
When you go out during the winter, please take a suitable container with you and look out for these tiny animals (torso an estimated 6 mm long). They can be caught easily.
Our postings of Chionea images have gained attention and interest among entomologists, in Korea and abroad.
Alexander Ganse
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I forgot : of course, register the time and location of any Chionea observation. Catch first, photograph later (in captivity). Back at school, move the animal into a container with appropriate size and some snow in it. Keep this container outside, until we can give it to Dr. Lee. Of course, take a number of photos, with an object which allows to recognize its size (ruler, measuring tape, coin ...)
Ganse
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