Scientists Found Four New Species With Giant Dragon-Like Jaws Hidden in South Korea’s Darkest Caves

The lack of specialists studying these small arachnids contributed to the belief that only one species, Spelaeochthonius dentifier, was present in South Korea. New Cave Species Discovered in South KoreaThe research team identified four previously unknown species: Spelaeochthonius dugigulensis, S. geumgulensis, S. magwihalmigulensis, and S. yamigulensis. The team found that the newly identified pseudoscorpions also provide information about connections between Korean and Japanese cave species. Credit: PLOS OneThe study authors described Spelaeochthonius species as “altogether blind, pale, and strongly troglobitic.” Cave ecosystems can contain highly specialized species that may not survive if their habitats are disturbed.