Remarkable micro-endemism and high congeneric richness: eight new cave-restricted species of Pseudochthonius Balzan, 1892 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae) from the Brazilian semi-arid

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  Remarkable micro-endemism and high congeneric richness: eight new cave-restricted species of Pseudochthonius Balzan, 1892 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae) from the Brazilian semi-arid Abstract Eight new species of pseudoscorpions belonging to the genus Pseudochthonius Balzan, 1892 are described from the semi-arid region of Brazil. Comprehensive morphological descriptions, diagnostic characters, detailed illustrations, and ecological remarks of the habitats are provided for Pseudochthonius celestialis sp. nov., P. caritas sp. nov., P. patientia sp. nov., P. temperantia sp. nov., P. diligentia sp. nov., P. castitas sp. nov., P. humilitas sp. nov., and P. benignitas sp. nov. In addition, we present a brief discussion of the potential factors underlying the remarkable congeneric species richness observed in this geographically restricted region, as well as the principal threats faced by these species. These findings underscore the importance of conserving caves in order to pr...

New spider species named after curator | Danni Sherwood | Manchester Museum

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New spider species named after curator | Danni Sherwood | Manchester Museum

Two newly described spider species have been named in honour of members of our Entomology team, recognising their support for spider research at the Museum.

Colombiarachne dianae, a tarantula from the Chocó region of Colombia, is named after our Curator of Entomology, Diana Arzuza Buelvas.

Titanidiops logunovi, a trapdoor spider from Galegu, Sudan, is named after Dmitri Logunov.

The names were chosen by one of our favourite frequent visitors, the amazing spider researcher Danni Sherwood. As Danni put it:

"It’s a small token of my appreciation for all the help you give me in Manchester!"

It's a wonderful reminder that behind every scientific discovery is a community of people helping to make research possible.

Congratulations to Diana and Dmitri on this very special honour!