Glacial Relicts? a New Scorpion from Mount Olympus, Greece (Euscorpiidae: Euscorpius)

Researchers have identified a new scorpion species, Euscorpius olympus, in the foothills of Mount Olympus, Greece. This discovery brings the total number of known species in the genus Euscorpius to 74 globally, 32 in Greece, and three in the vicinity of Mount Olympus. The study highlights the unique biodiversity of Mediterranean mountains like Mount Olympus, which have served as glacial refugia during Pleistocene ice ages, contributing to species diversification. The researchers also discuss the potential roles of climatic oscillations, altitudinal gradients, and habitat heterogeneity in shaping the diversity and distribution of scorpion species around this iconic landmark.

Blasco-Aróstegui, J., & Prendini, L. (2023). Glacial Relicts? a New Scorpion from Mount Olympus, Greece (Euscorpiidae: Euscorpius). American Museum Novitates, 2023(4003). https://doi.org/10.1206/4003.1