Ancient species of spider discovered in Cyprus

A live specimen of the rare and ancient arachnid species — Sarax ioanniticus, also known as the whip scorpion — has been recorded in Cyprus for the first time. This creature is characterized by a flattened body and two long, thread-like front legs that function as sensitive antennae.

Previously, in 1990, only dead specimens of this species had been found on the island, and the existence of a living population remained uncertain. However, entomologists continued searching, carefully inspecting dark and damp places such as caves, wells, and crevices.

The breakthrough came in 2023, when a live Sarax ioanniticus was accidentally discovered on a fence in the village of Pissouri. Since then, scientists have been observing the arachnid in laboratory conditions, while also analyzing data submitted by enthusiasts through the iNaturalist crowdsourcing platform.

The results of months-long research were published on July 10, 2025, in the Biodiversity Data Journal, confirming the species' presence in Cyprus and opening new opportunities for its further study and conservation.