A potential explanation for the disjunct distributions of Western Mediterranean scorpions in the genus Euscorpius

 

The genus Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 (Euscorpiidae) is widespread and have a high diversity in the Western Mediterranean, including several islands with endemic species. An interesting case is Euscorpius oglasae Caporiacco, 1950 from the island of Montecristo. Based on morphological analysis it has been regarded as closely related to the species Euscorpius balearicus Caporiacco, 1950 in the Balearic islands. But how is this possible as the distance between these islands is very large? 

Javier Blasco-Aróstegui and co-workers have recently published molecular study where they try to explain the disjunct distributions of Western Mediterranean scorpions in the genus Euscorpius. The study confirms the previous conclusion that the two above mentioned species are indeed closely related, and it offers an explanation of how the initial diversification of E. oglasae happened in the Paleogene time period.

Abstract:
Aim: Small wood-scorpions (Euscorpius Thorell, 1876) are widespread across the Mediterranean forests, mountains, coastlines, and islands of Europe. Their ancient origins make them an excellent model system for reconstructing the complex biogeographical history of the western Palaearctic. The present study focused on the islands of the western Mediterranean, which are geologically dynamic and harbour many endemic and relictual taxa, and on the relationships among Euscorpius species inhabiting Montecristo and the Balearic Islands, in particular. Two hypotheses were tested: (1) long-distance dispersal from the Balearic Islands after Montecristo emerged following the HT/LP plutonic intrusion (8.4–7.2 Ma), and (2) a multi-phase scenario beginning with vicariance from the Balearic, Calabrian, Corsican, Sardinian and Sicilian (Ba-Ca- Co- Sa- Si) microplate fragmentation, followed by dispersal to Montecristo during the Messinian Salinity Crisis (5.97–5.33 Ma) or later Pliocene–Pleistocene sea-level regressions (3.6–0.2 Ma).
Location: Western Mediterranean islands of France, Spain, and Italy, including the Balearic Islands, Corsica, Sardinia, and the Tuscan Archipelago.
Time Periods: Eocene, Oligocene, Neogene, and Quaternary.
Taxon: Scorpiones: Euscorpiidae: Euscorpius Thorell, 1876: Euscorpius balearicus Caporiacco, 1950; Euscorpius canestrinii (Fanzago, 1872); Euscorpius concinnus (C.L. Koch, 1837); Euscorpius oglasae Caporiacco, 1950; Euscorpius sicanus (C.L. Koch, 1837).
Methods: Multi-locus phylogenies were inferred from 2815 base-pairs of concatenated DNA sequence of the nuclear region comprising 18S rDNA (partial) and the Internal Transcribed Spacer II, and mitochondrial 12S rDNA, 16S rDNA, and Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I loci using Maximum Likelihood, and divergence times estimated in a Bayesian framework with conservative fossil calibration constraints. Ancestral areas and biogeographical transitions were reconstructed using parametric models complemented by Principal Coordinates Analysis and Isolation-by- Distance tests to assess spatial genetic structure.
Results: Molecular clock dating and biogeographical analyses suggest initial diversification of E. oglasae occurred after break-up of the Ba-Ca- Co- Sa- Si microplate during the Oligocene (25.9 Ma), which transferred the lineage to the Corsica-Sardinia block. A likely passive dispersal event (i.e., transient lands, orogenies) towards Montecristo only occurred after its emergence (8.4–7.2 Ma), probably during the Messinian Salinity Crisis (5.97–5.33 Ma).

Reference:
Blasco-Aróstegui J, Isaia M, Barba-Montoya J, Tolve M, Roppo M, Prendini L. Ancient Divergence, Recent Island: Microplate Fragmentation and Dispersal Explain Disjunct Distributions of Western Mediterranean Scorpions. Journal of Biogeography. 2026;53(9). [Subscription required for full text]

An updated catalogue of the scorpions of Paraguay with biogeographical information

 

Paul Smith and co-workers have recently published a updated review of the scorpion fauna of Paraguay. The country's scorpion fauna seems to consist of at least fifteen species in five genera and three families (Ananteridae, Bothriuridae and Buthidae). 

An identification key for the known species of Paraguay is included and the article also comments on some taxonomic problems and biogeography.

Abstract:
We review and map the current distribution of the Paraguayan scorpion fauna using a hierarchical system of reliability, differentiating specimens examined, specimens not examined and photographic records. One new species (Bothriurus sp.), two new national records (Brachistosternus simoneae and Ananteris mariaterezae), and nineteen new departmental distribution records are reported. The national fauna is concluded to be composed of at least fifteen species in five genera and three families, with one other species considered to be of hypothetical occurrence and a further two of probable occurrence. An illustrated key suitable for identifying Paraguayan material is included, and comments regarding taxonomy and systematic problems that remain to be resolved, together with proven and potential medical significance, are provided.

Reference:
Smith P, Borges A, Santacruz J, Owen M. Catalogue of the scorpions of Paraguay, with an illustrated key and biogeographical assessment (Arachnida: Scorpiones: Ananteridae, Bothriuridae, Buthidae). Invertzool. 2026;23:453–504. [Open Access]

Thanks to Victoria for informing me about this article! 

Taxonomic comments on some species of Bothriurus from Brazil and one new species

 

Wilson Lourenco and co-workers have recently published an article with considerations of some species in Bothriurus Peters, 1861 (Bothriuridae) from the state of Paranà in Brazil. Main findings:

Bothriurus trifinium Lourenço, Wilme & Ythier, 2026 [New species from the Northwest of the state of Paraná in Brazil.]

Bothriurus semiellipticus Prado, 1934 [Raised to species status from synonymy with B. bonariensis (C.L. Koch, 1842).]

Abstract:
A new species, Bothriurus trifinium sp. n. is described from an area of Riparian wet-forests in the Northwest of the state of Paraná in Brazil. The new species can be associated with other species previously described from the nearby regions of Paraná but also from Mato Grosso do Sul and Paraguay. The description of this new species attests once again about the existence of micro-endemic populations within different groups of Bothriurus. Comments are also proposed on the taxonomic status of some previously described species, with one species revalidated and some synonymies suggested.

Reference:
Lourenço WR, Wilmé L, Ythier É. New considerations on the species of the genus Bothriurus Peters (Scorpiones: Bothriuridae) described or cited from the state of Paraná, Brazil and description of a new species. Faunitaxys. 2026;14(56):1–10. [Open Access]

Thanks to Eric for informing me about this article!

Family Bothriruidae 

A study of the distribution of the genus Neogrosphus in Madagascar with one new species

 

Wilson Lourenco and Lucienne Wilme have recently published a study of the distribution of the genus Neogrosphus Lourenço, 1995(Buthidae) in Madagascar. A new species is described from mesic forest formations in Andohahela National Park in southeastern Madagascar.

Neogrosphus andohahela Lourenço & Wilme 2026

Abstract:
Madagascar remains one of the major hotspots of diversity and endemism in the world. Its scorpion fauna provides a striking example, with more than one hundred known species, all endemic, within a territory of only 587,000 km2. These species are associated with entirely endemic genera and, to a large extent, endemic familial lineages. While some groups are diverse and locally abundant, others are inconspicuous and occur at very low densities, as is the case for the genus Neogrosphus Lourenço, 1995. In this contribution, the distribution patterns of Neogrosphus are reassessed in light of new material and a revised eco biogeographical framework. Until recently, this genus comprised three species: Neogrosphus griveaudi (Vachon, 1969), restricted to the dry forest formations in the southern and western portions of Madagascar; Neogrosphus blanci Lourenço, 1996, known from the central region; and Neogrosphus andrafiabe Lourenço, Wilmé & Waeber, 2015, endemic to northern dry formations. A fourth species is described here from mesic forest formations in Andohahela National Park. The current distribution of the genus is shown to be highly fragmented across a broad environmental gradient ranging from subarid to more humid conditions. This pattern is interpreted as the result of historical fragmentation processes linked to limited dispersal capacity and long-term landscape evolution. On this basis, the general framework previously proposed to explain species diversity and vicariance in Malagasy scorpions is revisited and refined.

Reference:
Lourenco WR, Wilme L. New Insights on the Geographical Distribution of the Malagasy Genus Neogrosphus Lourenço, 1995 (Scorpiones: Buthidae) with the Description of a New Species from a More Humid Environment. Arthropoda. 2026;4:11. [Open access]

Family Buthidae 

Distribution, hybridisation and morphology of two species of Androctonus from Algeria

 

 Mohammed Ait Hammou and co-workers have recently published an article on the distribution and morphology of Androctonus liouvillei (Pallary, 1924) and A. aeneas C. L. Koch, 1839 (Buthidae) from Algeria. The study also looks into potential hybrid forms of the two species. Habitat differences and biogeography are also discussed.

Abstract:
This study updates the geographic distribution and examines the morphometric differentiation of Androctonus liouvillei, A. aeneas, and their putative hybrids in Algeria. By combining historical records with field surveys conducted between 2021 and 2024, several new localities for A. liouvillei in western Algeria were identified. Morphometric analyses of 12 adult females using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), revealed key morphological differences and as well as intermediate forms. The results indicate that A. liouvillei has a restricted, and fragmented distribution, primarily associated with mid-altitude steppe habitats, whereas A. aeneas occupies a broader ecological range. Putative hybrids were recorded in sympatric zones, particularly in El Bayadh, Naâma, Béchar, and Tiaret, providing new insights into their biogeography and ecological differentiation.

Reference:
Hammou MA, Benali N, Dahmani W, Chedad A, El Bouhissi M, Rebbas K, et al. Geographical distribution, potential hybridisation, and comparative morphometric analysis of Androctonus liouvillei Pallary, 1924 (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Algeria. Serket. 2026;21(2):184–208. [Open Access]

Thanks to Hisham  El-Hennaway for sharing the full text of this article with me!

Discovery of an unknown cave-dwelling scorpion from Australia

 

It is always interesting to read about new, cave dwelling scorpions. Some of these are just troglophiles without any special morphological adaptions, while others are true troglobites with adaptions like lack of pigments and reduced or no eyes.

In a recent article, Michael Curran and co-workers describe a new scorpion discovered in caves the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The taxonomic status of the scorpion will be treated in a future article, but preliminary analysis place it in the family Bothriuridae. The new species has distinct troglomorphic traits. It lacks eyes and pigmentation, and has weakened/diminished appendages.

It will be interesting to read the follow-up study on the taxonomy of this scorpion and another unknown bothriurid fra the same area. These two specimens represent the first reported troglobitic members of the family Bothriuridae.

Abstract:
We report the first troglobitic members of the scorpion family Bothriuridae from Australia, discovered in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, and provide a brief review of Australian troglofaunal scorpions. Scorpions are rare in subterranean ecosystems, with only 28 species recorded globally. Two described and two undescribed subterranean scorpion species were previously known from Australia. The Pilbara specimen documented herein exhibit pronounced troglomorphic traits, including complete loss of ocelli and pigmentation and weakened/diminished appendages, consistent with obligate subterranean adaptation. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses place the specimen within Bothriuridae. Photographs, collection details, and molecular data are provided. Together with a previously collected undescribed bothriurid from the Pilbara, this discovery represents the first documented troglobitic Bothriuridae globally. Formal taxonomic treatment will follow in a subsequent dedicated study.

Reference:
Curran M, Rodman S, Huey J, Floeckner S, Gunawardene N, Lythe M, et al. First record of troglobitic Bothriuridae (Scorpiones) in Australia from the Pilbara. Subterr Biol. 2026;56:85–101. [Open Access]

Thanks to Matt Simon and Francesco Frigioni for sending me this article!

A new species of Euscorpius from Rhodes Island, Greece

 

It has been quiet about European Euscorpiidae for awhile after several decades of many new genera and species from what was originally less than 10 species. Several new species have been described from many of the Greek islands, showing the importance of insular isolation and diversity. 

Konstantinos Kalaentzis and co-workers have recently published an article describing a new species of Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 (Euscorpiidae) from the Greek island Rhodes based on morphological and molecular analysis. 

Euscorpius diagorasi Kalaentzis & Frigioni, 2026

Abstract:
The genus Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 comprises a diverse and taxonomically challenging group of scorpions in the Mediterranean, with Greece representing one of its principal centers of diversity. In this study, we provide an integrative description of Euscorpius diagorasi sp. n., a new species from Rhodes Island, Greece. The new species is described on the basis of adult male and female morphology and mitochondrial COI sequence data. It is a small oligotrichous species characterized by a total length of approximately 21–25 mm, pale yellow to light brown coloration with darker reddish-brown pedipalps, pectinal tooth count of 8 in the male and 7 in the females, Pv = 7–8, Pe-et = 5–6, and a distinct mitochondrial lineage. Phylogenetic analyses based on COI recovered the Rhodian specimens as a strongly supported monophyletic lineage, sister to E. vignai from Karpathos. Species delimitation analyses with BIN assignment, ABGD, and ASAP consistently supported the Rhodes population as a separate molecular unit. Morphologically, the new species differs from E. vignai and other geographically proximate Aegean and Anatolian congeners in a combination of body size, coloration, trichobothrial counts, pectinal tooth counts, carinal development and granulations. The species was found in pine forest habitat beneath the bark of Pinus brutia, suggesting an association with sheltered corticolous microhabitats. The description of E. diagorasi sp. n. adds to the growing evidence of insular diversification in Greek Euscorpius and highlights the still underestimated scorpion diversity of the Dodecanese.

Reference:
Kalaentzis K, Frigioni F, Kaitetzidou E, Iannucci A, riantafyllidis A. An integrative description of Euscorpius diagorasi sp. n. from Rhodes, Greece (Scorpiones: Euscorpiidae). Euscorpius. 2026(428):1–14.

Family Euscorpiidae 

On Leiurus nigellus in Saudi Arabia

 

Abdulaziz M. Al-Amri and co-workers recently publised an article with a molecular and morphological analysis of Leiurus nigellus Abu Afifeh, Aloufi & Al-Saraireh, 2023 (Buthidae) in Saudi Arabia. Distribution and habitat are also discussed.

Abstract:
This study documents the first confirmed record of the Buthid scorpion Leiurus nigellus from Jabal Arnan in the Ha’il region, located within the King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve (KSRNR) in the northwestern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This species was originally described by Abu Afifeh, Aloufi & Al-Saraireh (2023). This locality extends the known distribution range of L. nigellus by over 200 km southeast of the type locality in Al-Ula, Al Madinah province. A total of six specimens of L. nigellus were collected during fieldwork conducted between June 2024 and April 2025, including two adult males, one adult female, and three juveniles. The objective of this study was to confirm the taxonomic identity of Leiurus nigellus from a newly discovered locality using morphological examination and mitochondrial DNA analysis and documentation of its known geographic distribution. Adult specimens (one male and one female) were examined using comparative morphometric analysis following standard scorpion taxonomic protocols, confirming diagnostic traits consistent with the original species description. Meanwhile, habitat assessments indicated adaptation to semi-arid rocky and gravel substrates. Molecular analysis was conducted on one adult male using targeted mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene sequencing (Sanger method). Phylogenetic relationships were inferred using neighbor-joining and maximum-parsimony analyses, placing L. nigellus within the Arabian Leiurus clade with bootstrap-supported affinity to Arabian congeners and limited intraspecific divergence. The generated 16S rRNA sequence represents the first molecular record for L. nigellus and has been deposited in GenBank. Sexual dimorphism was evident in morphometric traits, but these differences reflect normal biological variation rather than taxonomic differentiation. The discovery of L. nigellus in northern Saudi Arabia emphasizes the importance of continued faunistic and genetic surveys in underexplored regions, both to refine species distributions and to inform conservation management of specialized desert arachnofauna.

Reference:
Al-Amri AM, Abdulhakeem MA, Alqahtani AR, Al-Malki AM, Shohdi WM. First Record of Leiurus nigellus (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Northern Saudi Arabia: Molecular and Morphological Insights from Ha’il Region, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve. Diversity. 2026;18(3). [Open Access]

Family Buthidae 

A new species of Ananteris from French Guiana

 

Eric Ythier and Wilson Lourenco have recently described a new species of Ananteris Thorell, 1891 (Ananteridae) from the foot of the Mount Grand Matoury in French Guiana.

Ananteris duponti Ythier & Lourenco, 2026

The article has am identification key for the Ananteris species in French Guiana. 

The biogeography of the family and the genus is discussed.

Abstract:
One new species belonging to the genus Ananteris Thorell is described from the foot of the Mount Grand Matoury, French Guiana. The description of this new species brings further evidence about the biogeographic patterns of distribution presented by most species of the genus Ananteris, which are highly endemic in many natural formations of South America and in particular in French Guiana. The new taxon described here raises the number of known species for the genus Ananteris in French Guiana to 13, and the total number of currently recognized species for the genus to 100. A geographical distribution map of the species occurring in French Guiana is presented and an identification key is proposed.

Reference:
Ythier E, Lourenco WR. On the genus Ananteris Thorell, 1891 in French Guiana, with description of a new species. Faunitaxys. 2026;14(18):1–12. [Open Access]

Family Ananteridae 

A phylogenetic analysis of the ancient Asian scorpion family Pseudochactidae

 

As previously mentioned, the ancient, relictual Asian scorpion family Pseudochactidae Gromov, 1998 is probably one of the most interesting scorpion families in the world. It consist of both of extinct and extant taxa, and the latter is often labeled as "living fossils" due to their unique morphology. 

In a recent article, Lorenzo Prendini and co-workers present a new phylogenetic analysis of the genus with new information about the phylogeny and taxonomy of this fascinating family and its evolution. 

Abstract:
The ancient, relictual Asian scorpion family Pseudochactidae Gromov, 1998, has a disjunct distribution. Five genera and seven species of living pseudochactids are assigned to one epigean subfamily, Pseudochactinae Gromov, 1998, from Central Asia and southern China, and two hypogean subfamilies, Troglokhammouaninae Prendini et al., 2021, and Vietbocapinae Lourenço, 2012, from caves of the Khammouan-Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng Karst in the northern Annamite (Trường Sơn) Mountains of Laos and Vietnam. The extinct subfamily Chaerilobuthinae Lourenço and Beigel, 2011, comprises one genus and 15 species, hypothesized to be endogean, from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. The discovery and uncertainty regarding the phylogenetic placement of Qianxie solegladi Tang, 2022, from South China, together with the discovery that the Cretaceous amber Chaerilobuthinae, from the Burma Terrane, is the sister group of the extant pseudochactid subfamily Vietbocapinae provided an opportunity to revisit the phylogeny and biogeography of Pseudochactidae, and their adaptation to subterranean habitats in Southeast Asia. In the present contribution, pseudochactid phylogeny is reanalyzed using three mitochondrial markers (12S rDNA, 16S rDNA, Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I), three nuclear markers (18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, Internal Transcribed Spacer) and 143 morphological characters, for all extant pseudochactid taxa and seven exemplar species of the extinct Chaerilobuthinae. Divergence time and ancestral range estimation are conducted and the evolution of troglomorphic characters investigated to reassess how this lineage of “living fossils” dispersed and diversified. Recent changes to the systematics of Pseudochactidae are confirmed. The four subfamilies, genera, and species were monophyletic with high support and the following scheme of relationships: (Pseudochactinae (Troglokhammouaninae (Chaerilobuthinae + Vietbocapinae))). Phylogenetic analyses, reinforced by a multivariate morphometric analysis and pairwise genetic distances, confirm the validity of the monotypic, epigean Chinese genus, Qianxie Tang, 2022, which formed a monophyletic group with the epigean Central Asian genus, Pseudochactas Gromov, 1998, rather than the hypogean Southeast Asian genus, Troglokhammouanus Lourenço, 2007. Qianxie solegladi is transferred to Pseudochactinae. A revised time tree of Pseudochactidae suggests that the Burmese Chaerilobuthinae diverged from the Indochinese subfamilies, Troglokhammouaninae and Vietbocapinae, in the Early Cretaceous (ca. 117 Ma), consistent with Early Devonian rifting of the Burma Terrane.

Reference:
Prendini L, Xuan Q, Du SE, Wang C-BE, Ehrenthal VL, Loria SF. Phylogeny and divergence time estimation of relictual Asian scorpion family suggests Early Cretaceous connections between Burma Terrane and Eurasia, and corrects placement of Chinese taxon. American Museum Novitates. 2026(4051):1–55. [Open Access]

Family Pseudochactidae 

A new species of Ananteris from northeastern Brazil

 

Wilson Lourenco and Eric Ythier recently published an article describing a new species of Ananteris Thorell, 1891 (Ananteridae) from the state of Maranhão in Brazil.

Ananteris penitente Lourenco & Ythier, 2025

Abstract:
A new species of the genus Ananteris Thorell, 1891 is described from the South of the state of Maranhão in Brazil. Ananteris penitente sp. n. is described based on one male specimen collected in the region of the Serra do Penitente, nearby the Rio Panela, in a transitional zone between Gallery Forests and Cerrados. This is the third Ananteris species recorded from this Brazilian state. The number of Ananteris species described from the Northeast region of Brazil is raised to nine, while the number of Ananteris species known for the scorpion fauna of Brazil is now raised to 32.

Reference:
Lourenco WR, Ythier E. A new synthesis for the genus Ananteris Thorell, 1891 (Scorpiones: Ananteridae) for the northeast region of Brazil and description of a new species. Revista Iberica de Arachnologia. 2025(47):19–24. [Full text supplied by authors]

Thanks to Eric for informing me about their new article!

Family Ananteridae 

A new species of Opisthacanthus from Madagascar

 

Wilson Lourenco and co-workers have recently described a new species of Opisthacanthus Peters, 1861 (Hormuridae) from the Baie d’Antongil, located in the North-East portion of Madagascar.

Opisthacanthus antongil Lourenco, Wilme & Ythier, 2025

The distribution and biogeography of the genus is also discussed.

Abstract:
New comments are presented on the extraordinary diversity of the genus Opisthacanthus in Madagascar, with a similar number of species as in continental Africa, and a larger number of species than in Neotropical region. An African centre of origin can always be suggested for this group of scorpions, particularly in account of some associated Cretaceous fossil elements. The Gondwana model proposed equally suggests that the Madagascar Opisthacanthus could be closer to those of the New World, which is consistent with the affinities observed in morphological characters. A further new species, Opisthacanthus antongil sp. n., is described from the Baie d’Antongil, in a dense humid forest, located in the North-East portion of Madagascar. The new species shows particular affinities with Opisthacanthus piceus Lourenço & Goodman, 2006 known from the humid forests of the National Park of Andohahela, South of Vohibaka, located in the South-East portion of the island. The new species and O. piceus share similar external morphologies and in particular a blackish general coloration, with the exception of the telson’s coloration; however, the general chetotaxy is markedly different. The total number of species in Madagascar is now raised to 15. Hypotheses are also proposed about the species which inhabit humid formations in Madagascar.

Reference:
Lourenco WR, Wilme L, Ythier E. On the Malagasy species of Opisthacanthus peters, 1861 distributed in rainforest formations (Scorpiones: Hormuridae). Revista Iberica de Arachnologia. 2025(47):73–81. [Full text supplied by authors]

Family Hormuridae 

Scorpionism in Ecuador - An updated review

 

Scorpion envenomations are a problem in many countries in South America, but a majority of studies have focused on Brazil. A recent article by Adolfo Borges and co-workers shows that also Ecuador is a hotspot for scorpion envenomations in South America.

The study provides an overview of scorpion stings in Ecuador between 2017 and 2021 and the implications in form of deaths and morbidity. The authors also identify taxa of medical importance and their distribution. Unsurprisingly, two species in the genus Tityus C. L. Koch, 1836 (Buthidae) are probably responsible for the most serious cases.  

Abstract:
This study assessed scorpion envenoming risk in Ecuador at provincial and district levels between 2017 and 2021, estimated national incidence and mortality rates, and identified the likely implicated taxa. Data were obtained from the Ministry of Public Health and aggregated by province and district, with incidence and mortality rates calculated per 100,000 inhabitants using annual population estimates. District-level risk was visualized with choropleth maps, and scorpion diversity and distribution were compiled from updated national inventories. A total of 1,514 scorpion stings were reported between 2017 and 2021. National incidence and mortality rates (per 100,000 inhabitants) averaged 1.75 and 0.02. Regional incidence was highest in the Amazonian region (16.81), followed by the coastal (1.39) and Andean highlands (0.66). Hyperendemic districts (≥95th percentile of risk) included Taisha and Tiwintza (Morona Santiago), Arajuno (Pastaza), Flavio Alfaro (Manabí), and La Concordia (Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas). Mortality was highest in the Amazonian and piedmont coastal regions, with 10 deaths per region and an Amazonian rate of 0.44 per 100,000 inhabitants. These areas are inhabited by Tityus species from distinct morphological and toxinological groups, notably Tityus cf. rosenbergi in western Ecuador and Tityus cisandinus in Morona Santiago and Pastaza. Geographical variation in incidence and mortality likely reflects both the distribution of noxious taxa and population density. Despite high scorpion endemicity (79.2%), a national lethality rate of 1.32% that appears higher than reported in other countries where scorpionism is a public health concern, and the concentration of fatalities in children (75% in ages 1–9), Ecuador still depends on imported scorpion antivenoms, including that prepared against Centruroides species, which show low reactivity to Tityus toxins. These findings highlight the urgent need for preclinical neutralization studies to evaluate local antivenom efficacy and to investigate regional differences in clinical outcomes, to guide future adjustments to immunotherapy based on the biogeographic distribution of medically important Tityus species.

Reference:
Borges A, De Sousa L, Borja-Cabrera GP, Rivera A. Scorpion Envenoming in Ecuador: District-Level Risk, Updated Scorpion Diversity, and Challenges for Treatment and Public Health. Acta Trop. 2025:107942 (In Press). [Subscription required for full text.]

Thanks to Adolfo Borges for informing me about their new article! 

A new species of Tityus from Ecuador

 

Wilson Lourenco and Elise-Anne Leguin have recently described a new species of Tityus C. L. Koch, 1836 (Buthidae) from Ecuador.

Tityus cuyabeno Lourenco & Leguin.

The article also comments on the distribution of a few other Tityus species in Eucador and the scorpion diversity in this country. 

Abstract: 
A new species of Tityus, subgenus Atreus (Scorpiones: Buthidae) is described from the Province of Sucumbíos in the Ecuadorian Amazonia. Although a noticeable number of studies have been produced on the Ecuadorian scorpion fauna in recent years, many regions of this country remain unexplored. Comments about the remarkable diversity present in Ecuador are addressed and discussed.

Reference:
Lourenco WR, Leguin E-A. New comments on the scorpion diversity of Ecuador and descrption of a new species of Tityus C. L. Koch, 1836 (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Revista Iberica de Arachnologia. 2025(46):27–32. [No full text available]

Thanks to Michiel Cozijn for sending me this article!

Family Buthidae 

A new species of Androctonus from Jordan

 

Bassam Abu Afifeh and co-workers recently published an article with the description of a new species of Androctonus Ehrenberg, 1828 (Buthidae) from southern Jordan. 

Androctonus minaeus Abu Afifeh, Al-Saraireh & El-Hennaway, 2025 

The distribution of relevant species from Jordan and Egypt is also presented and discussed.

Abstract:
A new buthid scorpion species, Androctonus minaeus sp. n., is described from the Ma’an governorate in southern Jordan. This study provides a detailed morphological description, morphometric analysis, and diagnostic comparison with closely related species, particularly Androctonus bicolor and A. tenuissimus, using comparative material of these species from Egypt, along with ecological and distributional notes for each. Historical records of A. bicolor, A. amoreuxi, and A. australis from Jordan are reviewed and considered unverified due to the absence of supporting morphological data, and are therefore excluded from the confirmed scorpion fauna of Jordan pending further evidence. A distribution map of all examined specimens, along with previous records of related species from Egypt, is also provided to enhance our understanding of the geographic range and biogeography of this genus. The new species is distinguished by a unique combination of characters, including colouration, carinal development, and pedipalp proportions. The results contribute to a refined understanding of Androctonus diversity in the Levant and underscore the importance of critical reevaluation of regional scorpion records.

Reference:
Abu Afifeh B, Al-Saraireh M, El-Hennawy HK. A new Androctonus Ehrenberg, 1828 species from southern Jordan with implications for regional taxonomy and distribution (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Serket. 2025;21(1):12–32. [Open Access]

Thanks to Hirsham El-Hennaway for sending me scorpion articles published in Serket!

Family Buthidae 

 

A new species of Leiurus from Niger

 

Wilson Lourenco and co-workers have recently described a new species of the medical important genus Leiurus Ehrenberg, 1828 (Buthidae) from the south of Niger. 

Leiurus sahelicus Lourenco, El-Hennaway & Ythier, 2025

The authors also restore Leiurus aegyptiacus Lourenço & El-Hennawy, 2021 from synonymy with L. libycus (Birula, 1908).

A distribution map of the African members of Leiurus is also presented. 

Abstract:
One more African new species belonging to the genus Leiurus Ehrenberg, 1828 is described. The description is based on six adult males and one adult female collected in the region of Mir, South of Niger. The new species shows affinities with other Leiurus species distributed in the Western portion of Africa; however, several characteristics attest that, once again, this population is certainly distinct. The ecological features of the type locality are particular since the area is characterised by savannah-like vegetation, instead of arid-desert formations; formation previously defined exclusively for Leiurus savanicola Lourenço, Qi & Cloudsley-Thompson, 2006 described from Cameroon and Leiurus nigerianus Lourenço, 2021 described from Nigeria. This new scorpion taxon represents the 28th known species of the genus Leiurus. Comments are equally proposed on the recent synonymy of Leiurus aegyptiacus Lourenço & El-Hennawy, 2021 with Leiurus libycus (Birula, 1908), and this species is revalidated. A geographical distribution map of the distribution of the African species of the genus Leiurus is presented.

Reference:
Lourenco WR, El-Hennawy HK, Ythier E. A further new species of Leiurus Ehrenberg, 1828 (Scorpiones: Buthidae) from the South of Niger and confirmation of the extension of the distribution range of the genus to the Southern zones of the Sahara Desert. Serket. 2025;21(1):1–11. [Article supplied by authors]

Thanks to Eric for sending me their article!

Family Buthidae 

How many Buthus species are there in Europe and how did they evolve?

 

As mentioned in  previous post, the number of Buthus Leach, 1815 (Buthidae) species in Europe grew from one single species to more than 20. Earlier this year, this number was reduced to nine valid species. This decision was based on  rigorous phylogenetic analyses combining morphology, nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences, morphometric analyses, and ecological data.

In a new study, which was supposed to be published before the article mentioned above, Javier Blasco-Aróstegui and co-workers looks more deeply into the DNA og genetics of the Iberian Buthus species. This is complex stuff, way beyond my knowledge. I have therefor asked co-author Yuri simon to explain this article for us in more laymen terms:

 In this study, the authors re-examined the number of species within the European Buthus scorpions. Over the years, the group experienced a rapid increase in the number of described species, mostly because they show a great morphological diversity. 

However, this high morphological diversity is not always reflected in their DNA. The fast-changing mitochondrial DNA (inherited only from the mother) often suggests many species, while the more slowly evolving nuclear DNA (inherited from both parents) tells a different story. When these two genetic signals disagree, a situation known as mito-nuclear discordance, making difficult to define clear species boundaries. Moreover, since the past climate changes and the region’s complex landscape repeatedly separated and later reconnected populations, these scorpions sometimes met again after long periods apart and interbred creating in some cases hybrid populations showing some morphological intermediate characters which has contributed to the large number of taxa described. 

By combining genetic evidence with morphology and species distribution modelling, we found that the evolutionary history of Buthus in Iberia is far more complex than a simple “split and diverge” story. It involves repeated cycles of isolation, reconnection, and hybridization. Our results show that no single source of data—neither morphology nor mitochondrial or nuclear DNA alone—is sufficient to accurately define these species. Instead, an integrative approach is necessary. Using this approach, we concluded that the number of valid European Buthus species is likely much lower than previously thought, reducing it from around 20 to roughly half.

Abstract:
Mito-nuclear (or cytonuclear) discordance, evolutionary incongruence between the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes, is a widespread but underappreciated phenomenon that may obscure signals of introgression and hybridization important for understanding evolutionary trajectories and species boundaries. The present study explored the roles of secondary contact and introgressive hybridization in the diversification of Buthus Leach, 1815 scorpions in the Iberian Peninsula, a hotspot for mito-nuclear discordance, in which complex topography and glacial history facilitated repeated cycles of isolation and secondary contact. Patterns of mito-nuclear discordance were predicted to be consistent with overlapping distributions, similar ecological niches, and intermediate phenotypes. By integrating genomic, morphological, and ecological data, the intricate evolutionary history of Buthus, shaped by vicariance, reticulation and ecological opportunity, was revealed. The results underscore the role of introgressive hybridization in shaping patterns of biodiversity and the need to consider mito-nuclear discordance in species delimitation. 

Reference:
Blasco-Aróstegui J, Simone Y, Paulo OS, Prendini L. Mito-nuclear discordance reveals introgressive hybridization following vicariance and secondary contact in Iberian scorpions (Buthidae: Buthus). BMC Ecol Evol. 2025;25(1):112. [Open access]

Thanks to Yuri for sending me their article and for for writing a layman version of a summary for the article! 

A new species of Guyanochactas from French Guiana

 

A new species in the small genus  Guyanochactas Lourenço, 1998 (Chactidae) have been described from the cloud forest of Mount Itoupé in French Guiana by Eric Ythier and co-workers recently.

Gyuanochactas itoupe Ythier, Chevalier & Lourenco, 2025

The authors also confirms the validity of the genus Auyantepuia González-Sponga, 1978 in the same family.

Abstract:
A new species of scorpion belonging to the genus Guyanochactas Lourenço, 1998 (family Chactidae Pocock, 1893), is described on the basis of one specimen collected in the cloud forest of Mount Itoupé, the second highest peak of French Guiana. Guyanochactas itoupe sp. n. represents the fourth species of the genus reported from French Guiana and the total number of
Guyanochactas species is now raised to six. The new species is a possible vicariant of Guyanochactas touroulti Lourenço, 2018, equally described from a massif formation of French Guiana, the Mitaraka.

Reference:
Ythier E, Chevalier J, Lourenco WR. Cloud forest scorpions: a new species of Guyanochactas Lourenço, 1998 (Scorpiones, Chactidae) from Mount Itoupé in French Guiana. Faunitaxys. 2025;13(48):1–9. [Article supplied by authors]

Thanks to Eric for informing me about the new species.

Family Chactidae

Two new species of Androctonus from Oman

 
Graeme Lowe recently published a study of the Androctonus Ehrenberg, 1828  (Buthidae) populations in Oman and two new species are described.

Androctonus ammophilus Lowe, 2025 (Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates)

Androctonus omanensis Lowe, 2025 (Oman)

The biogeography and speciation of Androctonus in this region is discussed.

Abstract:
The taxonomic position of Androctonus populations in Oman was investigated by analyzing morphological variation in a comprehensive sample representing 150 records gathered from 95 localities spread throughout the country. Two new allopatric species are described, separated by multivariate morphometric analysis and meristic characters: (1) A. omanensis sp. n., distributed across most of Oman, is characterized by wider, deeper metasomal segments IV–V, shorter legs, more robust pedipalps, more granules on lateral inframedian carinae of metasoma II–III, and sparser setation on basitarsal spurs; and (2) A. ammophilus sp. n., distributed in the dunes of the Rub’ al-Khali (Empty Quarter) of northwest Oman, and adjacent Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates, is characterized by narrower, shallower metasomal segments IV–V, longer legs, more elongate pedipalps, fewer granules on lateral inframedian carinae of metasoma II–III, and denser setation on basitarsal spurs. The emergence of the Rub’ al-Khali sand system during Pleistocene glaciations, and the transition to hyper-arid conditions in the region, are hypothesized to be abiotic factors promoting ecological speciation of A. ammophilus sp. n., and vicariant speciation of A. omanensis sp. n.

Reference:
Lowe G. The genus Androctonus Ehrenberg, 1828 (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Oman. Euscorpius. 2025(424):1–59. [Open Access]

Family Buthidae

An updated checklist of the Chaerilus species from Vietnam and a description of the female of Chaerilus honba

 

Wilson Lourenco and co-workers recently published some updated data om the Chaerilus Simon, 1877 (Chaerilidae) in Vietnam. The female of Chaerilus honba Lourenço, 2019 is also described. 

Abstract:
Chaerilus honba Lourenço, 2019 is recorded for the first time from Nui Chua National Park, Vietnam. The single specimen found within the dry forest represents at the same time the first female known, which is described in detail. Furthermore, an updated checklist of the Chaerilus species from Vietnam is provided and biogeographical relations between southern Vietnamese coastal forests are discussed.

Reference:
Lourenco WR, Nguyen TQ, Luu TH, Bressel J, Ziegler T. New insights on the genus Chaerilus Simon, 1877 from Vietnam and description of the female of Chaerilus honba Lourenço, 2019 based on a new record from Nui Chua National Park (Scorpiones: Chaerilidae). Revista Iberica de Arachnologia. 2025(46):76–80. [No full text found]

Thanks to Professor Thomas Ziegler for sending me their article!

Family Chaerilidae