A new troglomorphic scorpion in the genus Typhlochactas described from Mexico

The genus Typhlochactas Mitchell, 1971 (Superstitioniidae) contains six troglomorphic (cave adapted with reduced pigmentation and/or reduced or missing eyes) species that all are endemic to Mexico. Four species are troglobitic (cave dwelling) while the others are leaf litter inhabitants.

Francke, Vignoli & Prendini (2009) have now described a new species from Mexico:

Typhlochactas sissomi Francke, Vignoli & Prendini, 2009 (Superstitioniidae)

The new species was found under a stone and seems not to be troglobitic.

A key to the genus is presented in the paper.

Abstract:
Typhlochactas sissomi, a new species of troglomorphic scorpion in the subfamily Typhlochactinae Mitchell, 1971, is described, based on a single subadult male collected under a stone in a mesophilous forest in the mountains of the state of Queretaro, Mexico. This is the seventh species in the genus Typhlochactas Mitchell, 1971. Although all seven species are troglomorphic, four are troglobitic and two are humicolous. The new species described here is probably also humicolous. A key to the identification of Typhlochactas species is presented.

Reference:
Francke OF, Vignoli V, Prendini L. A new species of Typhlochactas (Scorpiones, Typhlochatcrinae) from Eastern Mexico. American Museum Novitates. 2009; (3647):1-11. [Free fulltext]

Family Superstitioniidae