A small giant in the darkness: A new cave-dwelling Charinus (Amblypygi: Charontidae) from northeast Brazil

This study presents the description of a new species of the genus Charinus Simon, 1892, the 103rd recorded for the genus and the largest known to date. Discovered in Brejões I Cave, a significant speleological site in northern Brazil, the species is characterized by a well-developed eyes, and a specific pattern of spination on the pedipalps and cheliceral claws. In addition to the species description, we provide an updated dichotomous key for Brazilian species of the genus and a distribution map.

The formal naming and description of cave-dwelling species are crucial for assessing biodiversity and guiding conservation strategies. The new species was found exclusively within the cave, and no surveys have been conducted in surrounding areas to evaluate its broader distribution. This highlights the urgent need for expanded sampling efforts and reinforces the importance of protecting Brazil’s speleological heritage, which is under increasing threat and directly affects the preservation of subterranean biodiversity.