New records and invasion risk of Stenochrus portoricensis Chamberlin, 1922 (Schizomida: Hubbardiidae) in Brazil

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New records and invasion risk of Stenochrus portoricensis Chamberlin, 1922 (Schizomida: Hubbardiidae) in Brazil

Abstract

Stenochrus portoricensis Chamberlin, 1922 is a schizomid native to the Caribbean and Central America and is notable for facultative parthenogenesis and a broad synanthropic distribution. It is widely reported as an exotic species in several regions worldwide, with recognized invasive potential. Here, we expand its known distribution in Brazil by documenting the first records from the state of Mato Grosso and new occurrences in tourist caves in Bahia. We also model the species’ potential distribution in South America using the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) algorithm under current and future climate scenarios. The models indicate higher habitat suitability in regions characterized by low annual temperature variation and consistent rainfall patterns, conditions typical of tropical and subterranean environments, and predict range expansion under future climate change, particularly under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. The reproductive strategy of facultative parthenogenesis, combined with broad ecological tolerance, association with human-disturbed environments, and increasing spatial proximity to native schizomids, reinforces the invasive potential of S. portoricensis. These findings highlight the urgent need to investigate its ecological interactions and impacts on native communities, especially subterranean fauna, which exhibit high endemism and sensitivity to disturbance.


Duarte, M. V. da S. A., Jansen, R. G., Oliveira-Neto, M. A. de, Seabra, V. L., & Gallão, J. E. (2026). New records and invasion risk of Stenochrus portoricensis Chamberlin, 1922 (Schizomida: Hubbardiidae) in Brazil. Papéis Avulsos De Zoologia, 66, e202666040. https://doi.org/10.11606/1807-0205/2026.66.040