An integrative description of Euscorpius diagorasi sp. n. from Rhodes, Greece (Scorpiones: Euscorpiidae)

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  An integrative description of Euscorpius diagorasi sp. n. from Rhodes, Greece (Scorpiones: Euscorpiidae) Abstract The genus  Euscorpius  Thorell, 1876 comprises a diverse and taxonomically challenging group of scorpions in the Mediterranean, with Greece representing one of its principal centers of diversity. In this study, we provide an integrative description of  Euscorpius diagorasi   sp. n. , a new species from Rhodes Island, Greece. The new species is described on the basis of adult male and female morphology and mitochondrial COI sequence data. It is a small oligotrichous species characterized by a total length of approximately 21–25 mm, pale yellow to light brown coloration with darker reddish-brown pedipalps, pectinal tooth count of 8 in the male and 7 in the females, Pv = 7–8, Pe-et = 5–6, and a distinct mitochondrial lineage. Phylogenetic analyses based on COI recovered the Rhodian specimens as a strongly supported monophyletic lineage, sister to...

THE TRADE OF LIVE TARANTULAS AND SCORPIONS IN A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM IN THE PHILIPPINES

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THE TRADE OF LIVE TARANTULAS AND SCORPIONS IN A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM IN THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract 
Tarantulas and scorpions are diverse groups of arachnids. The international trade of live arachnids as pets is widespread, with undescribed or newly described species being particularly sought-after by enthusiasts due to their novelty and perceived rarity. Previous studies on wildlife trade in the Philippines have focused on vertebrates (e.g. reptiles, birds, mammals). This study was conducted to provide baseline data on trade dynamics of arachnids. We surveyed five Facebook groups specializing in the trade of live arachnids in 2020 and 2022 which documented more than 16,000 individuals representing 135 and 25 species of tarantulas and scorpions, respectively. Price per individual tarantula ranged from PHP 20 (USD 0.38) for a commonly traded species to PHP2 0,000 (USD382) for an undescribed species. Legality in sourcing and trade is a concern. Non-native arachnids are smuggled regularly by post into the country, while native species are poached and illegally shipped domestically and internationally to supply the pet trade. The Philippine wildlife authorities and Facebook are urged to collaboratively address the ongoing illegal live arachnid trade.

Raymundo, J.J.G., Chng, S.C.L. & Sy, E.Y. 2024. The trade of live tarantulasand scorpions in a social media platform in the Philippines. Journal of Nature Studies. 23(2), 1-21.
(PDF) THE TRADE OF LIVE TARANTULAS AND SCORPIONS IN A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM IN THE PHILIPPINES. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387555836_THE_TRADE_OF_LIVE_TARANTULAS_AND_SCORPIONS_IN_A_SOCIAL_MEDIA_PLATFORM_IN_THE_PHILIPPINES [accessed Jan 03 2025].