International Society for Subterranean Biology

https://www.mdpi.com/1424-2818/18/11/659 Subterranean environments are characterised by high spatial fragmentation and limited connectivity, which can strongly influence genetic structure and species distributions in troglobitic organisms. Here, we investigated the occurrence and spatial distribution of Proteus scopolii and P. xanthostictus within the Italian sector of the Classical Karst, the only Italian area where the two species naturally coexist. Species distributions were assessed using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) marker, combined with morphological traits and the Scaled Mass Index (SMI),…

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https://herpetozoa.pensoft.net/article/208806/list/21/ This work describes a photographic monitoring method using ultraviolet (UV) light to identify individual Italian cave salamanders through the unique yellow markings on their skin. This non-invasive technique allows researchers to track individuals over time, improve understanding of their movements and population dynamics, and support the conservation of this elusive subterranean amphibian.

Njunjić, I., Perrard, A., Hendriks, K., Schilthuizen, M., Perreau, M., Merckx, V., Baylac, M. and Deharveng, L., 2018. Comprehensive evolutionary analysis of the Anthroherpon radiation (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Leptodirini). PloS one, 13(6), p.e0198367. Abstract The genus Anthroherpon Reitter, 1889 exhibits the most pronounced troglomorphic characters among Coleoptera, and represents one of the most spectacular radiations of subterranean beetles. However, radiation, diversification, and biogeography of this genus have never been studied in a phylogenetic context. This study provides a comprehensive evolutionary analysis…

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Huber, B.A., 2018. Cave-dwelling pholcid spiders (Araneae, Pholcidae): a review. Subterranean Biology, 26, 1–18. Abstract Pholcidae are ubiquitous spiders in tropical and subtropical caves around the globe, yet very little is known about cave-dwelling pholcids beyond what is provided in taxonomic descriptions and faunistic papers. This paper provides a review based on a literature survey and unpublished information, while pointing out potential biases and promising future projects. A total of 473 native (i.e. non-introduced) species of Pholcidae have been collected…

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