Distinct pathophysiological mechanisms of Heterometrus laoticus and Lychas mucronatus scorpion venoms on cardiovascular and renal functions

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  Distinct pathophysiological mechanisms of Heterometrus laoticus and Lychas mucronatus scorpion venoms on cardiovascular and renal functions Abstract Background:    Heterometrus laoticus and Lychas mucronatus are widely distributed in Southeast Asia, yet their pathophysiological effects of both venoms remain poorly characterized due to low human fatality rates. This study compared their venom compositions and acute cardiovascular and renal effects. Methods:   Anesthetized male New Zealand White rabbits were monitored for blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and renal clearance following intravenous administration of crude venom (0.5 mg/kg). Venom components were identified via LC-MS/MS, and hematological/biochemical parameters were assessed. Results:    H. laoticus venom induced a rapid, transient hypotension ( p < 0.05), followed by a mild, prolonged hypotensive phase (up to 120 min). Conversely, L. mucronatus venom elicited a biphasic response: ...

First report of a Tailless Whip Scorpion in Cyprus: the case of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) (Amblypygi, Charontidae)

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First report of a Tailless Whip Scorpion in Cyprus: the case of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) (Amblypygi, Charontidae)


Background

Amblypygi, commonly known as tailless whip scorpions or whip spiders, is an order of Arachnida noted for its cryptic habits and predominantly tropical and subtropical distribution. Although the group was first mentioned on the island of Cyprus in 1990, no specific taxonomic information was provided at the time.

New information

Through a combination of literature review, targeted field surveys and citizen-science contributions, we confirm the presence of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) in Cyprus, representing the first documented record of this species on the island. Following seven years of dedicated searches, a live specimen was collected in 2023 and identified, thereby establishing S. ioanniticus as part of the island’s rich fauna. This finding extends the known range of S. ioanniticus within the eastern Mediterranean and underscores the importance of integrating biodiversity research with public engagement to detect elusive or under-reported taxa. Future studies should investigate the species’ local distribution, ecological requirements and potential conservation concerns on Cyprus.


Hadjiconstantis M, Smith M, Zoumides C (2025) First report of a Tailless Whip Scorpion in Cyprus: the case of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) (Amblypygi, Charontidae). Biodiversity Data Journal 13: e157478. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.13.e157478