Hidden diversity in plain sight: four new species of Nemesia (Araneae: Mygalomorphae) from the Córdoba Province of Spain

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  Hidden diversity in plain sight: four new species of Nemesia (Araneae: Mygalomorphae) from the Córdoba Province of Spain Abstract A taxonomic revision of the species of Nemesia Audouin, 1826, distributed in the vicinity of Córdoba City, southern Spain, is presented. Four new species are described: Nemesia morana sp. nov. (female), N. kodama sp. nov. (male and female), N. rosae sp. nov. (male and female), and N. tamajoni sp. nov. (male and female). These species are distinguished by distinct morphological characters, including the shape of the spermathecae, palpal bulbs, and spinnerets, as well as by burrow architecture. Fieldwork was conducted across two of the three major habitat types in the region—the humid, forested mountains of Sierra Morena and the croplands and riparian forests of the Guadalquivir Valley—while the third, the “campiña”, which is mainly composed of agricultural landscapes, remains poorly explored. Sampling methods included pitfall trapping and the direct e...

In Memoriam: Gérard Dupré (1947–2026) — A Life Devoted to the Study of Scorpions

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Photo Credit: Le Parisien

In Memoriam: Gérard Dupré (1947–2026) — A Life Devoted to the Study of Scorpions

The passing of Gérard Dupré (1947–2026) is a deeply felt loss for those of us who share an interest in the study of scorpions and other arachnids. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to documenting and preserving arachnological knowledge, contributing valuable work on scorpion taxonomy, distribution, and bibliography. His careful attention to the literature helped bring clarity and organization to a field whose history spans centuries and many languages.

Gérard was also closely associated with the journal Arachnides, which became an important outlet for sharing research, faunistic records, and historical notes within the arachnological community. Through this work, he helped ensure that observations and studies—large and small—were preserved and made accessible to others with similar scientific interests.

Beyond his scholarly contributions, Gérard was a humble and generous individual who engaged warmly with colleagues and enthusiasts alike. I had the privilege of communicating with him regularly over the years. Our conversations often revolved around arachnology and the literature surrounding scorpions, subjects he approached with genuine enthusiasm and deep knowledge. Our last exchange took place on the 3rd of March of this year, a correspondence I now look back on with particular appreciation.

I also remember him as one of the very first followers of my blog, Arácnido Taxonomy. His early support meant a great deal to me, and it reflected the kind of person he was—encouraging, attentive, and quietly supportive of the work of others in the field.

With his passing, the arachnological community loses not only a dedicated scholar but also a thoughtful and kind presence. His work will continue to be consulted and valued, and he will be remembered with respect and gratitude by those who knew him and by many others who benefited from his efforts.

Rest in peace, my friend.