Albinism in the buthid Olivierus martensii and review of albinism in scorpions in general

 

Albinism is known in many animals, but it is rare in scorpions. Victoria Tang and Zhenbang Liu has now published a very thorough article on this fascinating topic using albinism in Olivierus martensii (Karsch, 1879) (Buthidae) from China as an example.

The authors thoroughly describe and discuss all aspects of albinism in this species (origin of this phenotype, manifestation, and behavioral and ecological consequences of having this phenotype). Scorpion coloration in general is also discussed in relation to albinism.

Abstract:
This is a formal case report for the albinism in Olivierus martensii (Karsch, 1879). Albino phenotype is compared with its normal counterpart in terms of their morphology and behavior by cursory experiments. The examined 7 albino individuals (5 of which were adults) were smaller and more slender than their normal counterparts. However, these quantitative differences were not statistically significant and should be treated with caution due to the low sample size. Their abilities to detect both white light and UV light or UV-excited fluorescence were not significantly undermined, although their tendency to ensure a clear vision through self-cleaning behavior appeared to be reduced. Their heightened visibility on dark, leafmould substrate and greater crypticity on yellowish gravels may play a significant role in their natural survival. Additional evidence is required to substantiate this hypothesis as the function of scorpion coloration has been hardly studied. Several theoretical assumptions were proposed following a literature review on scorpion coloration and fluorescence, and this paper also serves as a brief synopsis of those aspects. Other three rare phenotypes in this species are also reported, defined here as piebaldism, hypomelanism and leucism. Given their existence, it is suggested that the loss of melanin in the epidermis beneath the ocelli is diagnostic for albinism in scorpions.

Reference:
Tang V, Liu Z. Albinism in Olivierus martensii (Karsch, 1879) (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Euscorpius. 2024(396):1-33. [Open Access]