Noureddine Benali and co-workers have recently published a study on the behavior, ecology, distribution and habitat preferences of Buthus apiatus Lourenço, El Bouhissi & Sadine, 2020 (Buthidae) in Algeria. One main takeaway from this study is that this species has a larger flexibility in habitat preferences and distribution in Algeria than previously known.
Abstract:
Buthus apiatus Lourenço, El Bouhissi & Sadine, 2020 is an endemic scorpion species in Algeria, first discovered in the Sidi Bel Abbès region in the northwest of the country. It was previously thought to have a restricted distribution limited to Sidi Bel Abbès, Tissemsilt and Tiaret in western Algeria. However, recent field survey has revealed a wider range than previously assumed, with confirmed occurrence in several additional areas of western Algeria that extend to the central-eastern regions, including Tlemcen, Naama, Mascara, Saïda, Laghouat, Bayadh and M'Sila. These new records suggest a substantial expansion of the species known range, highlighting its broader ecological tolerance and potentially redefining its distribution limits. Furthermore, B. apiatus has been observed across diverse habitats in Algeria, demonstrating considerable ecological flexibility.
Reference:
Benali N, Hammou MA, Dahmani W, El Bouhissi M, Mohdeb S, Chedad A, et al. Ethology, ecology and distribution of Buthus apiatus Lourenço, El Bouhissi & Sadine, 2020 in Algeria (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Serket. 2026;21(2):175–83. [Open Access]
Thanks to Hisham El-Hennaway for sharing the full text of this article with me!
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