Advancing the systematics of Araneae: ultraconserved elements phylogenomics demonstrates the non-monophyly of Miturgidae Simon, 1886 and supports the Familial Rank of Systariidae Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001

Posted by
  Advancing the systematics of Araneae: ultraconserved elements phylogenomics demonstrates the non-monophyly of Miturgidae Simon, 1886 and supports the Familial Rank of Systariidae Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 Abstract The systematic status of the family Miturgidae Simon, 1886 and related subfamilies has long been problematic, primarily due to challenges in interpreting morphological characters and limited molecular sampling. In this study, we reconstruct the phylogeny of Miturgidae using ultraconserved elements and estimate its divergence time. Our results suggest that Systariinae does not belong to Miturgidae, but rather is sister to all other families of the Dionycha B clade. Consequently, we elevate it to family rank as Systariidae Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 and discuss its morphological synapomorphies. Furthermore, our analyses place Miturgidae as the sister clade to Viridasiidae + Selenopidae under multiple phylogenetic methods. Divergence time estimates indicate an ancient origin of...

Redescription of Euscorpius studentium Based on Adult Specimens; Updated Classification of Cavernicolous Euscorpiidae; and Review of Cavernicolous Scorpions in the Balkans

Posted by

 


Redescription of Euscorpius studentium Based on Adult Specimens; Updated Classification of Cavernicolous Euscorpiidae; and Review of Cavernicolous Scorpions in the Balkans

Abstract

Cavernicolous scorpions are difficult to collect and study due to their often inaccessible habitats. Some have evolved unique morphological adaptations, known as troglomorphies, including reduced sclerotization and pigmentation, reduction and/or loss of eyes, attenuation and elongation of the appendages, which assist them to thrive in dark, humid and low-energy input environments. Cavernicolous scorpions are classified into accidentals, trogloxenes, troglophiles, and troglobites. The Balkans, and particularly the Dinaric Karst region, host a diverse cave-adapted fauna, including scorpions. Despite an 1895 report of a blind scorpion from Bosnia and Herzegovina, the first truly troglobitic European scorpion, Euscorpius studentium Karaman, 2020, was only described a few years ago, based on two immature specimens. In the present contribution, this unique species is redescribed based on the first adult specimens; the ecological classification of all currently known cavernicolous Euscorpiidae Laurie, 1896, is updated; a key to the identification of cavernicolous scorpions occurring in the Dinaric Karst is provided; and the historical and geographical factors affecting the distribution and conservation of cavernicolous scorpions in the Balkans is reviewed.


Prendini, L. (2024). Redescription of Euscorpius studentium Based on Adult Specimens; Updated Classification of Cavernicolous Euscorpiidae; and Review of Cavernicolous Scorpions in the Balkans. Diversity, 16(12), 737. https://www.mdpi.com/1424-2818/16/12/737