DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.5.e207119

Authors: Giorgi Tedoradze, Arsena Bakhia, Tamar Jugeli, Dimitri Khuskivadze, Nutsa Megvinetukhutsesi, Giorgi Mikeladze, Leonid Rasran, Shalva Sikharulidze, Zaal Kikvidze

Abstract: Ski piste construction and maintenance are recognised as significant drivers of vegetation change in mountain ecosystems. The Caucasus has a rapidly developing ski tourism and at the same time is an important hotspot of global biodiversity; the impact of this form of land use on vegetation has not yet been studied in the area. We examined plant community structure, species composition and cover, functional-group biomass, and temporal dynamics along an elevation gradient (1,884–2,685 m a.s.l.) spanning montane to alpine zones at the Didveli ski piste within the Bakuriani ski resort (Lesser Caucasus, Georgia). We compared 36 ski piste plots (18 standard-track and 18 eroded) with 25 adjacent undisturbed control plots using ordination (PCA and CCA), cluster analysis, Indicator Species Analysis, and linear mixed-effects models. We analysed the occurrence of 103 species with a frequency ≥ 5 in these plots. PCA clearly separated control plots from disturbed plots along the axis associated with soil depth, species richness, and aboveground biomass. CCA confirmed that species distributions closely followed this human-impact gradient. Cluster analysis identified floristically distinct groups that broadly corresponded to control, track, and eroded conditions. Indicator Species Analysis revealed that undisturbed plots supported typical alpine meadow species (Gentiana septemfida, Bromus variegatus, Veratrum lobelianum), while eroded plots were associated with disturbance-tolerant taxa (Draba hispida, Arctium lappa) and track plots with the compaction-tolerant grass Calamagrostis pseudophragmites. Mean aboveground biomass on control plots (2,526 kg ha–1) was 2.1–3.0 times higher than on track (1,175 kg ha–1) and eroded plots (833 kg ha–1). Graminoids and forbs declined sharply under disturbance, whereas legume biomass was resilient across all land-use types, likely owing to nitrogen-fixation capacity. Temporal monitoring (2020–2023) showed stable or increasing biomass on control plots but limited and short-lived recovery on piste plots. These findings demonstrate that ski piste development substantially reduces biodiversity and productivity in the Caucasus Mountain grasslands and underlines the need for targeted restoration and sustainable management strategies.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.5.e204607

Authors: Ahmet Gökay Korkmaz, Kamil Candan, Ecem Büşra Hastürk, Serkan Gül, Mehmet Kürşat Şahin, Elif Yıldırım Caynak, Yusuf Kumlutaş

Abstract: Melanism is among the most ecologically significant chromatic anomalies reported in squamates, and yet its evolutionary drivers remain a topic of debate. Two principal hypotheses have been proposed: thermal melanism, which holds that darker individuals heat more rapidly in cool climates, and Gloger's rule, which predicts greater melanin deposition in warm, humid environments. Melanistic individuals of Eirenis modestus are a rarely documented phenomenon given the species' characteristically pale dorsal coloration; to date, every previously published record of this dark morph had come from island populations. Here we report the first mainland record of melanism in E. modestus, based on a single specimen collected on 9 May 2024 near Çağman–Demre, Antalya Province, southwestern Türkiye. The individual exhibited entirely black dorsal coloration from head to tail, with greyish-white ventral scales darkening progressively towards the tail. Pholidotic characters were consistent with those previously documented for the species. The Çağman–Demre locality, like all previously reported sites, is characterised by relatively high humidity and a Mediterranean coastal climate, a pattern more consistent with Gloger's rule than with thermal melanism. Further sampling across the Anatolian mainland and adjacent islands is needed to assess the frequency and geographic distribution of this morph.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.5.e189214

Authors: David Tarkhnishvili, Giorgi Iankoshvili, Armen Seropian, Nino Kachlishvili, Mariami Todua

Abstract: Despite the publication of numerous papers, spanning the period from the 19th century to recent times, that have been devoted to the faunistics and taxonomy of the herpetological fauna of the Caucasus Biodiversity Hotspot, the actual species diversity of the region still remains unclear. Some formally described taxa lack comprehensive validation based on integrative phylogenetic and biogeographic evidence, whereas other nominal species have been questioned or synonymized in subsequent studies. In this paper, we present an annotated checklist of 12 amphibian and 56 reptile species recorded from Georgia, accompanied by taxonomic remarks based on current molecular, morphological, and biogeographic knowledge. Most taxa are represented by DNA barcodes (COI) generated within the Caucasus Barcoding of Life (CaBOL) project and deposited in institutional collections and international databases. We explicitly distinguish between biologically confirmed species, effectively isolated from their closest relatives, and candidate species whose status requires further validation; particularly in cases where contact zones and potential clinal variation remain insufficiently studied. The checklist is supplemented with specimen photographs and generalised distribution maps. Overall, we aim to contribute to a more transparent and critically evaluated taxonomic framework for the herpetofauna of Georgia and the broader Caucasus region.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.5.e188959

Authors: Levon Harutyunyan, Vitalij Kovalev, Astghik Markosyan, Narek Tarasyan, Lusine Aghajanyan, Mark Gudkov

Abstract: Electrocution on medium-voltage distribution lines is a globally recognized threat to birds, yet data from the South Caucasus remain scarce. In Armenia, the magnitude and spatial distribution of this impact have not previously been assessed through systematic field surveys. This pilot study evaluated bird electrocution in selected regions of the country during the 2024 breeding and autumn migration periods. Surveys covered approximately 114 km of 10 kV overhead power lines (OPLs) (2,071 poles) across Armavir, Ararat, Kotayk, and Shirak provinces. Transects were walked along a 40 m search belt, and all carcasses discovered were documented, with species identification, pole type, and geographic coordinates being recorded. Given resource constraints, following initial surveys, the study prioritised concrete poles over wooden ones as the former were identified as presenting a potentially higher mortality risk. In total, 252 electrocuted birds representing 15 identified species were recorded. Mortality was markedly higher during autumn migration in Shirak (228 cases) than during the breeding season in other surveyed regions (24 cases), although this contrast may reflect both seasonal patterns and regional landscape differences. Corvids and small- to medium-sized diurnal raptors comprised the majority of recorded casualties. Spatial mapping revealed distinct mortality clusters, particularly around Arpi Lake National Park and in open steppe–agricultural landscapes with limited natural perching structures. Informal carcass persistence observations suggested prolonged detectability of large raptor remains. The results indicate that electrocution on medium-voltage lines represents a concentrated and potentially significant source of avian mortality in parts of Armenia, underscoring the need for targeted mitigation and systematic monitoring.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.5.e189638

Authors: Armen Seropian, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Vano Egidunashvili

Abstract: The spider fauna of Tbilisi was systematically documented in the early 2000s, when 252 species were recorded from the city and its surroundings. Despite a rapid urban expansion over the past two decades, subsequent studies have increased this number to 371 species. In the present study, we provide the first Georgian records of Tolokonniella stigmatisata (Menge, 1869) (Lathyidae) and Scotargus pilosus Simon, 1913 (Linyphiidae), and record Drassodes serratichelis (Roewer, 1928) (Gnaphosidae) in the Caucasus region for the first time, all based on specimens collected in Tbilisi.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.5.e176387

Authors: Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, Giorgi Makharadze, Valeri Petrov, John R. Grehan

Abstract: This study reviews the diversity of ghost moths (Hepialidae) in Georgia, including the first documentation of the genus Hepialus Fabricius, 1775 with the recording of Hepialus humuli (Linnaeus, 1758) based on a two male and a single female specimens collected in 3 regions of Georgia in 1961, 1962 and 1970. The newly recorded genus also represents the first record for the South Caucasus more widely.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.5.e177177

Authors: George Japoshvili, Toshko Ljubomirov, Dustin Kulanek, Martin Husemann

Abstract: We hereby present the first country records of two vespid species of the genus Polistes Latreille, 1802 (Vespidae) — Polistes bucharensis Erichson, 1849 and P. mongolicus du Buysson, 1911 — for Georgia (Sakartvelo). We identified specimens morphologically and confirmed the identification with DNA barcode data. Based on this, we provide some of the first DNA barcodes for these species from the region as a basis for future research.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.5.e169526

Authors: Maka Murvanidze, Mariam Abuladze

Abstract: Here, we present the results of a litterbag experiment performed in a natural broadleaved forest to study the patterns of microarthropod succession in decomposing litter and the level of adaptation to local vs. spatially distant microhabitats. Ten oak and ten beech leaf-filled, defaunated litterbags were placed under an oak tree, and the same were placed under a beech tree (forty litterbags in total). Five litterbags of each type were collected six and twelve months after the beginning of the experiment, in June and December, respectively. Microarthropod fauna differed between the two sampling events, showing higher diversity and abundance in winter, reflecting the progress of colonization. Microarthropod faunal abundance and species numbers in litterbags filled with oak leaves and placed under the oak trees were significantly higher than those in the other types of litterbags, suggesting the adaptation of the local microarthropod community to this type of litter. The trophic composition of microarthropods showed a higher diversity at the end of the experiment, with increased ratios of predatory and fungivorous taxa, indicating more diverse and easily accessible food resources. Litter dry mass declined continuously for beech litter, while the rate of decline slowed in oak litter between the first and the second sampling events, probably due to the more robust structure of oak leaves compared to beech.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e169350

Authors: Ana Margalitadze, Eleonora Kiria, Mariam Gogshelidze, Lado Shavadze, Naia Modebadze, Shalva Barjadze

Abstract: The Caucasus region is recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot, hosting a remarkable diversity. Among its unique ecosystems, karst caves in western Georgia provide habitat for highly specialized invertebrate fauna. Despite the ecological significance of these cave systems, biospeleological research in the region remains limited. Based on recent studies, an updated and expanded checklist of invertebrates from the Racha and Khvamli karst massifs is provided. We report 102 species, representing 25 orders, 57 families, and 78 genera, including eight newly recorded taxa for the caves of Racha and Khvamli karst Massifs: Globochthonius satapliaensis, Harpolithobius perplexus, H. spinipes, Lithobius viriatus, Chaetoleptophyllum flexum, Leucogeorgia gioi, Porrhomma convexum and Colchidoniscus kutaissianus. Of these 102 species, 20 are troglobionts, 11 are stygobionts, 45 are troglophiles, two are stygophiles, 13 are trogloxenes, six are accidental records and for five species ecological status is not defined.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e165329

Authors: Mukhamed Karmokov, Azamat Akkizov

Abstract: This study provides new details on the karyotype characteristics, chromosomal polymorphism, and COI gene data of the Dipteran species Chironomus degelenus from the Eastern Caucasus. This is the first record of Ch. degelenus in the Eastern Caucasus (and Russia in General). The Caucasian population of this species shows eight banding sequences and low polymorphism. We discovered a new banding sequence, degC2, in Ch. degelenus. Only arm C showed an inversion polymorphism. There are striking similarities between the polytene chromosome banding patterns of Ch. degelenus and Ch. atrella. Therefore, we propose including Ch. degelenus in the Ch. atrella group of closely related species. Phylogenetic analysis of COI gene sequences reveals two distinct entities referred to as “Ch. atrella”, with a higher-than-average K2P distance of 6.2%. This pattern is attributed to “dark taxa”; genetic information in databases from unknown and taxonomically challenging species. We also discuss the potential link between the emergence of the species Ch. degelenus and Ch. atrella and Pliocene climate changes.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e173656

Authors: Artyom Tiunov, Anastasiya L. Ustinova

Abstract: Based on the female lectotype from the D.E. Kharitonov’s collection, we provide a re-evaluation and redescription of an orb-web spider Araniella tbilisiensis (Mcheidze, 1997). Following an examination of Araniella villanii Zamani et al., 2020 paratypes, we considered this a junior synonym of A. tbilisiensis. Additionally, the photographs of the epigyne of a female specimen from D.E. Kharitonov’s collection, originally assigned to A. tbilisiensis, are presented as an unknown Araniella sp.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e172790

Authors: Aleksi Memishishi, Kristina Dzuliashvili, Bella Japoshvili

Abstract: In this paper, we provide evidence of the presence of Calamoceras illiesi Malicky & Kumanski 1974 in the South Caucasus for the first time. In addition, the occurrence of Mystacides azureus Linnaeus, 1761 is confirmed in Georgia, with the initial photograph observation in social media supported by the collection of specimens from several locations in the country. Detailed collection data, photos of preserved specimens, and habitat of C. illiesi in Georgia are provided along with a map of known records for both species.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e173667

Authors: Armen Seropian

Abstract: The first illustrated description of transverse intersexuality in Trochosa cachetiensis Mcheidze, 1997, from Georgia, is provided. In this specimen, both male (palpal bulbs) and female (epigyne) structures are underdeveloped. Brief comparison of the intersex specimen with normally developed conspecifics is given.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e168433

Authors: Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, Armen Seropian

Abstract: This study aims to expand our current knowledge of biological invasions of Georgia by reporting the first records of two non-native moth genera Micromelalopha Nagano, 1916 (Notodontidae), and Antheraea Hübner, 1819 (Saturniidae) from the South Caucasus, based on three male specimens of Micromelalopha sieversi (Staudinger, 1892) and five male specimens of Antheraea pernyi (Guérin-Méneville, 1855). These findings are based on recent field collections, supported by morphological examination and DNA barcoding, and contribute to a better understanding of the region's shifting lepidopteran fauna and potential bio-invasion risks. Additionally, we provide the first comprehensive list of non-native animal species recorded in Georgia, based on literary and online sources.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e164636

Authors: Eteri Svanidze, Archili Kvelashvili, Angelina Jorjadze, Ketevan Peikrishvili

Abstract: The data presented here cover all the macromycete species recorded from the National Botanical Garden of Georgia from the beginning of the 20th century to the present day. This is the first time a list of macromycetes from the National Botanical Garden of Georgia has been compiled; it totals 126 species, along with their ecological and trophic characteristics, collection date, and sources (herbarium, literature). Five species records from collections made between 2021–2024 are new to the Georgian mycobiota.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e164996

Authors: Mustafa Yaman, Manana Kereselidze, Tuğba Sağlam Güvendik

Abstract: Gregarines, which belong to the parasitic protozoa, have a variety of negative effects on their hosts. Therefore, it's important to report this pathogen for the first time from a new insect population in Tbilisi, Georgia. Several life stages of the gregarine were found in the midgut lumen of the yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, a pest species of grain and stored food products, which is also gaining attention as a potential sustainable food source. Forty samples from both larvae and adults were dissected, and their intestines were examined under a microscope, demonstrating that both were infected by the parasite. Several life stages of the gregarine parasite were found in the midgut lumens of these mealworms, with the largest trophozoite observed being 67.9 µm in length. Gregarine infection rates in T. molitor larvae were found to be higher than in the adults. Twenty-nine of the 40 examined larvae were infected (72.5%) compared to seven of the 40 examined adults (17.5%). These results suggest that T. molitor larvae are more susceptible to gregarine parasite infection than adults. Our study contrasts with a similar study in Antalya, Turkey, where no gregarine infection was observed in either larval or adult T. molitor.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e162505

Authors: Denis Kitel, Zurab Javakhishvili

Abstract: The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) has only recently colonized Georgia, yet has rapidly expanded throughout the country's lowland agricultural landscapes. Despite its increasing presence, no prior comprehensive study has examined its diet in Georgia. We analyzed 6627 prey items from Barn Owl pellets collected between 2023 and 2025 at 34 sites across five Georgian regions. After sterilization and dissection, prey remains were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level and biomass was estimated. The results show that mammals dominate the diet, accounting for 98.6% of all prey items, with rodents (53% by number, 75% by biomass) and shrews (45% by number, 23% by biomass) being the most common prey groups. Other prey included birds, bats, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates. Notably, Mus macedonicus, Microtus socialis, and Crocidura spp. were the most frequent mammalian prey. Geographic variation in diet composition was observed, with some sites showing a predominance of shrews. This study provides novel insights into the Barn Owl’s feeding ecology in Georgia and offers the first regional data on several small mammal species, including updated records for Micromys minutus and Suncus etruscus. Given the owl’s preference for rodents, it may serve as a valuable component of sustainable rodent control strategies in Georgian agriculture.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e162106

Authors: Denis Kitel, Alexander Bukhnikashvili

Abstract: The pygmy white-toothed shrew (Suncus etruscus), one of the smallest mammals globally, has long been considered rare and poorly studied in Georgia. Traditionally under-recorded due to its small size and elusive behaviour, the species' presence has remained uncertain, with only a few historical or unverified records. In this study, we analysed barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets collected across eastern Georgia between 2023 and 2025 to assess the presence of S. etruscus in the region. From a total of 6,627 prey items extracted and identified, 41 individuals of S. etruscus were found in pellets from 12 different locations in Kakheti and Kvemo Kartli regions. These findings significantly expand the known distribution of the species in Georgia and suggest that it is more common in lowland habitats than previously believed. Given the barn owl’s relatively small foraging range, the occurrence of S. etruscus remains in pellets is a reliable indicator of its local presence. Our results highlight the value of raptor pellet analysis in detecting elusive small mammals and suggest that S. etruscus may have been previously overlooked due to methodological limitations in traditional trapping surveys. This study provides a new foundation for understanding the distribution and habitat preferences of this poorly known species in the Caucasus.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e171922

Authors: Armen Seropian, Levan Ninua, Ioane Rostiashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Giorgi Makharadze

Abstract: We recently published the description of a new agelenid spider Tegenaria amirani (Seropian, Bulbulashvili et Makharadze 2025). However, no holotype depository was indicated in the paper. This is mandatory after 1999 according to the current International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, and the new species name would be a nomen nudum and unavailable (ICZN 1999: Art. 16.4.2). In this corrigendum, we indicate the holotype depository, which we did not include in the original paper. We thank Theo Blick (Hummeltal, Germany) for kindly pointing out this error.To rectify this oversight, we hereby provide the missing depository information: the holotype and all paratypes bearing the sample code CaBOL-ID are deposited in the deposited in the scientific collections of Ilia State University, Georgia, Tbilisi.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e151878

Authors: Asmus Schröter

Abstract: Two cases of interspecific aggression by overwintering black-throated divers directed at great crested grebes Podiceps cristatus, are for the first time described from Georgia and the South Caucasus. In one case, the attack on a pair of great crested grebes had a fatal outcome for one grebe. The reasons for interspecific aggression outside the breeding season and the biological basis of this behaviour is discussed and observations compared with available literature. Due to the anecdotal nature of current knowledge of this puzzling issue no explanation for interspecific aggression per se is provided. The previously published hypothesis that competition for fish prey might play a role is supported. Observed interspecific aggression included adopting the aggressive display postures and performing actions used in territorial defence typical for the black-throated diver and the four larger Gavia species, such as fencing, crouching, bill-dipping, rushing, bow-jumping, and wing-flapping. Calls uttered during attack are a characteristic shortened form of the territorial yodel. A previously unpublished behaviour possibly linked to interspecific aggression of black-throated divers is described. Observation data obtained from 2021-2025 show that the black-throated diver is a regular passage migrant and winter guest at Tbilisi reservoir, emphasising the importance of the reservoir as a migration stop-over for the species in inland Georgia.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e162490

Authors: Armen Seropian, Levan Ninua, Ioane Rostiashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Giorgi Makharadze

Abstract: In this paper we present new faunistic and regional data on the Agelenidae, Gnaphosidae, Linyphiidae, and Lycosidae of Georgia. Tegenaria hasperi Chyzer, 1897 (Agelenidae), Archaraeoncus prospiciens (Thorell, 1875), Trichoncoides piscator (Simon, 1884) (both Linyphiidae), and Aulonia kratochvili Dunin, Buchar & Absolon, 1986 (Lycosidae) are reported for the first time from Georgia. Echemus levyi Kovblyuk & Seyyar, 2009 (Gnaphosidae) is reported for the first time from the Caucasus region. Tegenaria pseudolyncea (Guseinov, Marusik & Koponen, 2005) (Agelenidae) is documented in Georgia outside the Samachablo region for the first time. Marinarozelotes malkini (Platnick & Murphy, 1984) (Gnaphosidae) is recorded in the Southern Caucasus for the second time. Lastly, a new species from the Tegenaria lyncea group, T. amirani sp. nov. is described based on both male and female specimens from Georgia. Diagnostic illustrations, photographs of a live T. hasperi female, and images of T. amirani sp. nov. are provided along with detailed collecting data.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e158970

Authors: Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, Risto Haverinen, Jari Junnilainen, Mark Kalashian, Aleksander Pototskin

Abstract: The study provides an update on the Lepidoptera diversity of Armenia, with the first record of two genera Phragmacossia Schawerda, 1924 and Stygia Latreille, [1802] based on 10 male specimens of Phragmacossia territa (Staudinger, 1879) and a single female specimen of Stygia mosulensis Daniel, 1965 collected in Alvank, Syuik Province, Armenia. These are also the first record of this genera in the South Caucasus.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e155494

Authors: Giorgi Epitashvili, Giorgi Ramazashvili, Bella Japoshvili, Levan Mumladze

Abstract: This study presents the first comprehensive survey of fish species’ diversity and distribution in the Algeti River and its reservoir in Georgia, a region within the Caucasus biodiversity hotspot. The research, conducted between 2016 and 2022, identified 19 fish species, including nine native to the Kura River basin and ten introduced or invasive species. The construction of a hydro power plant (HPP) dam in the 1980s and other subsequent anthropogenic activities have significantly altered the river ecosystem, creating distinct upstream, reservoir, and downstream sections with varying fish communities. The study reveals a concerning ongoing impact of anthropogenic factors on the Algeti River's fish fauna and whole ecosystem. The dam impedes fish migration; in addition, pollution, particularly in the mid-downstream section, has led to habitat degradation and a decline in native species. The introduction of non-native species, including predatory and bioturbator species, poses a substantial threat to the native fish populations. Our findings highlight the urgent need for conservation action to mitigate these threats. While the river's headwaters are within a protected area and some species are on the Red List of Georgia, alone these designations are insufficient safeguard. Effective conservation strategies must include stricter enforcement against illegal activities like poaching, as well as better pollution control and habitat management to preserve the Algeti River's biodiversity. This baseline study provides critical data for future research and conservation planning in this ecologically important region.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e150297

Authors: Zulfu Farajli, Kyle D. Kittelberger, Colby J. Tanner, Karen Aghababyan, Nika Paposhvili, Motahareh Hakiminejad, Igor Karyakin, Viktor Belik, Çağan H. Şekercioğlu, Emrah Çoban, Tomas A. Haraldsson

Abstract: This study provides a detailed overview of the Saker Falcon’s status across the Caucasus, integrating contributions from collaborators from Azerbaijan, Georgia, Türkiye, Armenia, Iran and Russian Caucasus, and reviewing citizen science platforms such as eBird, iNaturalist, and Observation.org. We found that there are a lack of targeted studies on Saker Falcons across all Caucasian countries, however, increased research efforts may uncover previously undocumented nesting sites, improve threat assessments, and guide effective conservation actions critical for the species' survival in the Caucasus.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e144670

Authors: Başak Gür, Tuğba E. Kalaycı

Abstract: The use of COI barcodes for specimen identification and species discovery has proven to be a functional molecular approach in the study of Anura. In this study, we evaluated the genetic status of Bufo bufo, Hyla orientalis, and Rana macrocnemis from different parts of Rize, Türkiye, using the COI gene marker, a popular method known as DNA barcoding. The Caucasus region is known to host a substantial amount of global biodiversity; however, limited barcoding studies are available for vertebrate taxa within this region. We have submitted all generated sequences to the BOLD data system, with the majority representing the first data from Rize in this database. Our analysis revealed four distinct barcode index numbers belonging to members of three different families. We observed a genetic distance of 0.038 between B. bufo specimens from İyidere and Çamlıhemşin. Within R. macrocnemis, genetic distances ranged from 0.018 to 0.020, and within H. orientalis, they ranged from 0.01 to 0.02. Our findings indicate that COI sequencing is a useful tool for the identification of anuran species present in Rize.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.4.e151922

Authors: Armen Seropian, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Giorgi Makharadze, Gábor Kovács

Abstract: Eresidae (velvet spiders) is a relatively small family of spiders, most-diversified in the African continent. The present study provides the first description of the female of Eresus lavrosii Mcheidze, 1997, which has remained undiscovered for over two decades. We also briefly review the species’ history and add knowledge of its ecology, biology, and distribution. Diagnostic drawings and digital photographs of female and male copulatory organs, alongside COI barcoding results, photographs of live and preserved specimens, and of microhabitat are also presented.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e139879

Authors: Denis Kitel, Kyle Kittelberger, Kayahan Ağirkaya, Gul Tutar, Çağan H. Șekercioğlu

Abstract: A check-list of Odonata found at Aras River Valley in Kars and Iğdır provinces of Türkiye is published for the first time, representing 38 species. The abundance of species from March to November is noted by month, with the phenology of the flight period indicated. Summer months host the highest number of species, up to 28 in June. We provide a complete phenology for the imago (adult) presence in the area for 22 species, from their emergence to their disappearance at the end of their flight period and life cycle. Short notes regarding selected species which are either rare in the region or have international protection status are also provided. This study shows that the Aras River Valley is an important place for Odonata, especially Onychogomphus flexuosus and Libellula pontica, species which are classified as “Vulnerable” and “Near Threatened”, respectively, in the present IUCN Red List of threatened species.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e140978

Authors: Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze

Abstract: The aim of the present study is to provide an update on the Lepidoptera diversity of Georgia, with the first records of the Cecryphalus Schoorl, 1990, and Dieida Strand, 1911, genera, along with Dyspessa infuscata (Staudinger, 1892). The records are based on three male specimens of Cecryphalus strix (Grum-Grshimailo, 1896), a single male specimen of Dieida ledereri (Staudinger, 1871), and a single female specimen of D. infuscata collected in different parts of Georgia. Digital images of imagoes, first descriptions, and pictures of male D. ledereri genitalia, along with collecting data, are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.140259

Authors: Zdravko Kolev, János Novák, Armen Seropian

Abstract: The first records of the highly distinctive Nymphalid species Hipparchia parisatis (Kollar, 1849) from the Republic of Georgia (Vashlovani Nature Reserve, hereafter VNR) are reported. The taxonomy and distribution of the species in the South Caucasus region are discussed, and the importance of the Vashlovani Protected Areas (hereafter VPA) as a hotspot for butterfly diversity in Georgia is emphasized. The report also highlights the importance of active collaboration, at the interface of web-based data recording platforms, between professional biologists and citizen science initiatives for the effective advancement of biodiversity research and conservation.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e137446

Authors: Mariam Gogshelidze, János Novák

Abstract: Diplotemnus balcanicus (Redikorzev, 1928) is reported from Armenia for the first time. This is also the first record of the family Atemnidae for Armenia. The finding is based on one male specimen found in the Ararat region, Angel’s Canyon, near Vedi. The description of the main morphological and morphometrical characteristics of the collected specimen is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e132243

Authors: Ketevan Nikolaishvili, Tsitsino Lomidze, Lela Arabuli, Ketevan Asatiani, Lali Murvanidze

Abstract: In this study, we investigated the gastrointestinal helminth fauna of small mammals in the highland region of Usholta (Racha, Western Georgia). In total, 19 specimens of small mammals were examined, of which 10 gastrointestinal helminth species were detected. Five out of eight specimens of Apodemus uralensis were infected with three nematode species: Heligmosomoides polygyrus, Syphacia obvelata, and Trichuris muris. Notably, the liver of a single individual of A. uralensis was also infected with cestode—Echinococcus multilocularis, (larvocysts) —a novel host record for this parasite in Georgia. All eight exeminated Microtus daghestanicus specimens were infected with both cestode (Paranoplocephala omphalodes and Rodentolepis asymmetrica) and nematode (Heligmosomum costellatum and Syphacia sp.) parasites. Similarly, all three exeminied specimens of Mustela nivalis were infected with cestodes (Versteria mustelae) and nematodes (Molineus patens, Syphacia sp.). For Syphacia sp., M. nivalis is a new host record in Georgia. Only one specimen of A. uralensis was simultaneously infected by two species of nematodes (Syphacia sp., T. muris) and also a single individual of M. nivalis was infected with three species of helminths (V. mustelae, M. patens, Syphacia sp.). This study provides valuable insights into the helminth diversity and host-parasite relationships in the region, highlighting the importance of continued research on wildlife parasites.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e141157

Authors: Nika Budagashvili, Dachi Shoshitashvili, Tamar Uguzashvili

Abstract: This study provides an analysis of the current status, population trends, and distribution of White Storks (Ciconia ciconia) in the Republic of Georgia. Findings from our most recent survey in 2024 revealed a 40% increase in the number of White Stork nesting pairs in settlements previously surveyed during the 2018–2020 census. However, this increase was not statistically significant. The 2024 survey expanded its scope to include 36 additional settlements that had not been surveyed or reported in prior assessments, resulting in the documentation of 55 new nesting pairs within 22 settlements. Among the 23 settlements surveyed in both 2018–2020 and 2024, fluctuations in the number of White Stork nesting pairs were observed in 14 settlements, with a general increase and slight declines noted in four settlements.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e137308

Authors: Dragan Antić, Tamara Aleksić, Jelena Milovanović, Mert Elverici

Abstract: A remarkable dwarf schizopetalid, Euxinopetalum dobatorum Hoffman, 1973, is rediscovered in the Heracles Cave (type locality) in Turkey. This poorly known species is recorded after more than 50 years and is illustrated here with photographs, photomicrographs, and scanning electron micrographs, including descriptive notes and remarks. The small body size and the reduced number of body segments in Callipodida are briefly discussed, while the question about the type locality is clarified.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e138762

Authors: Armen Seropian

Abstract: Dictis L. Koch, 1875, is recorded in the Caucasus for the first time. Dictis strandi (Spassky, 1941), comb. nov. is transferred to Dictis from Scytodes Latreille, 1804 based on the examined female and two males raised to maturity from the egg sac. Collecting data and digital photos of live and preserved specimens are provided, along with detailed descriptions of both sexes, diagnostic illustrations, and observations on the natural history of Dictis strandi comb. nov. The endogyne is depicted for the first time.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e132501

Authors: Armen Seropian, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Giorgi Makharadze, Andrei Baznikin

Abstract: Spiders collected individually between 19–23 May 2024 during a trip to Vashlovani National Park and Chachuna Managed Reserve were determined, resulting in 24 species, of which two species are described as new: Synema inexpectata sp. nov. (Thomisidae) and Prodidomus trihelicoides sp. nov. (Prodidomidae). Ten species - Acanthinozodium parysatis Zamani & Marusik, 2021 (Zodariidae), Berlandina nabozhenkoi Ponomarev & Tsvetkov, 2006, Cryptodrassus helvolus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1872), Synaphosus palearcticus Ovtsharenko, Levy & Platnick, 1994, Synaphosus turanicus Ovtsharenko, Levy & Platnick, 1994, Talanites involutus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1885), Turkozelotes attavirus Chatzaki, 2019 (all Gnaphosidae), Evarcha armeniaca Logunov, 1999 (Salticidae), Lycosa soboutii Shafaie, Nadolny & Mirshamsi, 2022 (Lycosidae), Rhysodromus rikhteri (Logunov & Huseynov, 2008) (Philodromidae), and Sardinidion blackwalli (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1871) (Theridiidae) are recorded in Georgia for the first time, of which six species and three genera are new to the Caucasus region. The male of L. soboutii is described for the first time. Diagnostic drawings of preserved specimens and first photos of several preserved and alive species are provided along with the detailed collecting data.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e132725

Authors: Armen Seropian, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Hans-Joachim Krammer

Abstract: The faunistic status of the spider family Liocranidae in Georgia is revised. Due to the preoccupation of the liocraniid genus Sagana Thorell, 1875, by a saturniid moth genus Sagana Walker, 1855 (currently placed in Copaxa Walker, 1855), the genus Drapeta Menge, 1875, is resurrected, hence the transfer of its type species D. rutilans (Thorell, 1875), comb. nov. and D. concolor (Simon, 1878), comb. nov. A new species, namely Drapeta caucasica sp. nov., is described from Georgia based on the male and female specimens from the Adjara region and Tbilisi vicinity. This is the third species of this previously considered monotypic genus. DNA barcoding results, diagnostic drawings, and detailed collecting data on Drapeta caucasica sp. nov., with a list of the Georgian Liocranidae, and previous records of ex-Sagana rutilans Thorell, 1875, in the Caucasus are discussed.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e128928

Authors: Nika Budagashvili, Josip Turkalj

Abstract: This paper reports the first documented breeding record of the White-tailed Lapwing Vanellus leucurus in Georgia, with additional information on its status in Georgia and in the adjacent countries.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e130238

Authors: Eleonora Kiria, Levan Mumladze, Shalva Barjadze, Ivan H. Tuf

Abstract: Georgia's rich biodiversity, as a key part of the Caucasus hotspot, makes it an ideal destination for scientific research. Nevertheless, knowledge about the species diversity of different animal groups in this area remains limited. In this article we provide information on the nine centipede species (Henia brevis (Silvestri, 1896), H. hirsuta Verhoeff, 1928, H. taurica (Sseliwanoff, 1884), Strigamia caucasia (Verhoeff, 1938), S. pusilla (Sseliwanoff, 1884), Harpolithobius spinipes Folkmanová, 1958, Lithobius antipai Matic, 1969, L. foviceps Muralevitch, 1926, and L. micropodus (Matic, 1980)) newly recorded in Georgia. Three of these species (H. brevis, H. hirsuta, and L. micropodus) are also new records for the Caucasus region. Data on their distribution, maps of the localities, and photos of the specimens studied are also given.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e124925

Authors: Tobias Salden, Björn Müller, George Japoshvili, Nils Hein, Ani Ugrelidze, Ralph S. Peters

Abstract: We record for the first time the families Stephanidae and Mymarommatidae and the corresponding superfamilies Stephanoidea and Mymarommatoidea in Georgia. A single female of Stephanus serrator (Fabricius, 1798) was collected in Kakheti, Lagodekhi Protected Area (LPA), in the east, and five individuals of Mymaromma anomalum (Blood & Kryger, 1922) were collected in Achara, Kintrishi National Park (KNP), in the west of Georgia. Each of the studied wasp species is complemented by DNA (CO1) barcode sequences. Vouchers are deposited at Museum Koenig Bonn (LIB, ZFMK) and the Entomology Collection of the Agricultural University of Georgia (ECAUG).

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e124994

Authors: Beka Chitadze, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, Alexander Drogvalenko, Pierre Moulet, Armen Seropian

Abstract: During the fieldworks conducted within the CaBOL project in 2020–2023, 14 new species of Heteroptera belonging to seven families, and a new species of Auchenorrhyncha were collected in Georgia for the first time: Trypetimorpha occidentalis Huang & Bourgoin, 1993 (Tropiduchidae), Dimorphopterus blissoides (Baerensprung, 1859) (Blissidae), Europiella decolor (Uhler, 1893), Tuponia mixticolor (A. Costa, 1862), Deraeocoris ventralis Reuter, 1904, Orthocephalus brevis (Panzer, 1798) (Miridae), Alloeorhynchus flavipes (Fieber, 1836) (Nabidae), Holcogaster fibulata (Germar, 1831), Vilpianus galii Wolff, 1802 (Pentatomidae), Holotrichius bergrothi Reuter, 1891, Reduvius ciliatus Jakovlev, 1879, Oncocephalus squalidus (Rossi, 1790) (Reduviidae), Pterotmetus staphyliniformis (Germar, 1831), Diomphalus hispidulus Fieber, 1864 (Rhyparochromidae), and Psacasta neglecta (Herrich-Schäffer, 1837) (Scutellaridae). The present study provides distributional, genetic, and collecting information on the newly recorded species followed by remarks.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e120656

Authors: Armen Seropian, Levan Mumladze

Abstract: A new species, Psammitis abuliensis sp. nov., from Didi Abuli Mt. (Georgia, Samtskhe-Javakheti region), is described based on two male specimens. Diagnostic drawings, measurements, collecting data, diagnosis, and DNA barcodes are given. A new combination, Psammitis marmoratus (Thorell, 1875), comb. nov. (ex. Xysticus), is proposed based on the COI subunit barcode results and morphological characters.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e120883

Authors: Armen Seropian, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Hans-Joachim Krammer, Jana Thormann, Nils Hein, Elisabeth Karalashvili, Nino Kachlishvili, Anastasia Datunashvili

Abstract: The present study contains information about a small number of spiders collected between 2018 and 2023. The spiders were determined to species level and partially assisted by genetic barcoding of the COI gene. Among the resulting 33 species, 23 species and three genera, are recorded from Georgia for the first time, of which 11 are new records for the entire Caucasus. Of the 26 barcoded specimens representing 18 species, six species (Agroeca maculata L. Koch, 1879; Aituaria eriashvilii (Marusik, 1987); Evippa sjostedti Schenkel, 1936; Lathys cf. lehtineni Kovblyuk, Kastrygina & Omelko, 2014; Zelotes segrex (Simon, 1878); Lathys lehtineni Kovblyuk, Kastrygina & Omelko, 2014; Maculoncus obscurus Tanasevitch, Ponomarev & Chumachenko, 2016) are barcoded for the first time. In addition, 12 new regional records for 10 species are provided. The collecting information for each record is provided in detail, together with a discussion of the barcoding results and remarks, supported by 48 diagnostic drawings of 22 first-recorded species. A potential synonymy of Pelecopsis odontophora (Kulczyński, 1895) with P. parallela (Wider, 1834) and Bassaniodes loeffleri (Roewer, 1955) with B. pseudorectilineus (Wunderlich, 1995) is discussed.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e117332

Authors: Olga L. Makarova, Maria D. Antipova, Anatoly B. Babenko, Irina S. Bushueva, Artemii D. Chulei, Sergei I. Golovatch, Galina Y. Doroshina, Vasiliy B. Kolesnikov, Yuri A. Mazei, Kirill V. Makarov, Dmitry Palatov, Alexander V. Ponomarev, Konstantin P. Popov, Irina B. Rapoport, Oleg I. Semionenkov, Nataly Y. Snegovaya, Boris I. Sheftel, Andrey N. Tsyganov, Ilya S. Turbanov, Roman V. Zuev

Abstract: In the Caucasus, the total area taken up by glaciers is known to have reduced by 23% over the last 20 years. This natural experiment allows for additive and replacement models of autogenic succession of biocoenoses within paraglacial landscapes to be tested. A certain risk of the extinction of cryophilic species also exists. However, montane paraglacial successions of invertebrate assemblages have hitherto been studied neither in the Caucasus nor in Russia as a whole. Structural changes of taxocoenoses were traced in a spatial and temporal sequence of ten properly dated paraglacial sites in the Tsey Gorge, North Ossetia − Alania (1–170-years old) among the testate amoebae, earthworms, molluscs, myriapods, mites, spiders, harvestmen, pseudoscorpions, collembolans, and beetles. As the glacier retreats, in place of bare paraglacial wastelands, grassland communities are formed that, after 10–14 years, are replaced by shrub vegetation and, on 30–35-year old surfaces, by forest communities. Most of the invertebrate groups, once “appearing” along a postglacial transect, were recorded from most older plots as well. Yet, their taxocoenoses underwent considerable transformations through increasing (or an increase turning into some decline in beetles) the species diversity and a strong, often complete change in the taxonomic composition and dominance structure. The most considerable transformations were observed at all major vegetation changes. The “appearance” of some groups in the transect was determined not only by dispersion capacities but mainly by the environmental conditions of particular habitats. When comparing the composition of the pioneer postglacial species complex of the study region with that in the mountains of Europe’s south and north, its high-degree regional specificity was noted, sometimes shown at the family level (in spiders). Spatial β-diversity of all larger taxa studied was mainly attributed to turnover (due to “the replacement model” of succession). The general level of change diminished towards the later succession stages. Endemic arthropod species were revealed both in pioneer grassland and developed forest communities.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e117215

Authors: David Tarkhnishvili, Mariami Todua, Giorgi Iankoshvili

Abstract: Two nominal species of water frogs of the genus Pelophylax, P. ridibundus and P. bedriagae, are found in Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Western Asia, Western Kazakhstan, and Siberia. So far, the taxonomic status of Pelophylax in most of the Caucasus has remained unknown. Sequencing of the Cytochrome Oxidase 1 mitochondrial gene attributed the frogs throughout Georgia to the P. ‘bedriagae’ lineage, bringing them very close to the specimens from Kazakhstan and Greece. Simultaneously, the current nomenclature of water frogs appears to be formally incorrect since western Kazakhstan, the type locality for P. ridibundus, has frogs genetically closer to nominal P. bedriagae, than to nominal P. ridibundus from Europe. Because there is no evidence that the frogs from Central Europe, Kazakhstan, and the Caucasus, as well as from Anatolia and Iran, are biological species with individual evolutionary pathways, we suggest a conservative approach and synonymize nominal P. bedriagae from most of West Asia with P. ridibundus.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e118074

Authors: Fatah Zarei, Hamid Reza Esmaeili, Keyvan Abbasi, Reza Sadeghi

Abstract: The present study provides the length-weight relationships (LWRs) for four difficult-to-sample Caspian endemic gobies for the first time: Benthophilus persicus, Benthophilus baeri, Knipowitschia longecaudata, and Hyrcanogobius bergi. They were collected from shallow and deep waters of the southwestern Caspian Sea using various methods, including beach seining, scuba diving, and deepwater bottom beam trawls. The slope (b) of LWRs ranged from 2.874 for B. baeri, to 3.408 for H. bergi with coefficient of determination higher than 0.918. The b values showed significant differences between the sexes of all species.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e115578

Authors: Tukazban Iskandarova, Shota Japarashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Armen Seropian

Abstract: The Ripiphoridae family is reported from Georgia for the first time, based on the collected specimens of Macrosiagon bimaculata (Fabricius, 1787), Ptilophorus dufouri (Latreille, 1817), and Ripiphorus subdipterus (Bosc d'Antic, 1792). Collection data, along with photographs of the preserved specimens, are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e117039

Authors: Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, Giorgi Makharadze, Ioane Rostiashvili, Anastasia Datunashvili, Roland Dobosz

Abstract: The present study aims to provide an updated checklist of the owlfly subfamily Ascalaphidae Lefèbvre, 1842, with the first records of the genus Deleproctophylla Lefèbvre, 1842, from the country. The new records give an improved understanding of owlfly distribution within the country. The record of the genus Deleproctophylla in Georgia is based on a single female specimen of D. australis (Fabricius, 1787).

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.3.e116995

Authors: Armen Seropian, Natalia Bulbulashvili

Abstract: The second psocid species of the genus Hemineura Tetens, 1891, namely H. wittmeri Badonnel, 1981, is recorded from the Caucasus region for the first time based on several female and male specimens collected in the Shida Kartli region of Georgia. Collecting data are given along with diagnostic illustrations of the preserved specimens.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e114375

Authors: Mariam Gogshelidze, János Novák

Abstract: Pselaphochernes scorpioides (Hermann, 1804) is reported from Georgia for the first time. This is also the first record of the genus Pselaphochernes in Georgia. The finding is based on one female specimen found in the Malaise trap in Kintrishi National Park, Adjara Region. A description of the main morphological and morphometrical characteristics of the collected specimen is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e110536

Authors: Armen Seropian, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Stefan Otto, Hans-Joachim Krammer, Nino Kachlishvili, Anastasia Datunashvili

Abstract: Abstract Spiders collected during field trips and by spontaneous hand collection throughout Georgia between the years 2006 and 2023 were determined to species and partially assisted by genetic barcoding of the COI gene. Among the resulting 297 species, 100 species, 25 genera, and 1 family were recorded from Georgia for the first time, of which 18 species and 5 genera were recorded for the first time from the entire Caucasus. Of the 283 barcoded specimens representing 150 species, 26 were barcoded for the first time. 140 diagnostic drawings of 76 preserved specimens, along with photos of 15 preserved (Supplementary File) and one alive species, are provided. Baryphyma proclive (Simon, 1884), Pritha pallida (Kulczyński, 1897), and Zelotes khostensis Kovblyuk & Ponomarev, 2008 are indicated as the species with an Italo-Caucasian disjunctive distribution.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e106544

Authors: Naia Modebadze, Jochen Martens, Nataly Snegovaya, Shalva Barjadze

Abstract: Abstract An annotated list of the Georgian harvestmen was prepared based on literature and unpublished collection data, in which 48 species belonging to 19 genera within six families are included. Twenty-seven species are endemic to the Caucasus Ecoregion, while 10 species are endemic to Georgia. Five species are highly specialized cavernicolous ones and are only known from caves. Former subspecies Nemastoma suberbum bacuriana Mkheidze, 1959, is ranked as an independent species, Paranemastoma bacurianum (Mkheidze, 1959) (comb. nov. et stat. nov.); Metaplatybunus hypanicus Šilhavý, 1966, is justified as a junior synonym of Metaplatybunus georgicus Mkheidze, 1952 (syn. nov.).

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e109026

Authors: Tukazban Iskandarova, Shota Japarashvili

Abstract: Abstract A list of 18 species of checkered beetles is given, together with images of voucher specimens and a distribution map based on literature, dry collections and databases.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e111452

Authors: Giorgi Iankoshvili, Nikoloz Tsikolia, Natia Barateli, Mariam Gabelaia, Armen Seropian, David Tarkhnishvili

Abstract: Abstract Visual inspection of several embryos of the parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia armeniaca revealed the presence of an embryo with axial bifurcation (“two-headed”) on the stage of pigmented eyes and plate-like limb buds with a distinct border at the edges. This is the third recorded case of axial bifurcation in D. armeniaca, although two previous cases were mentioned without further discussion. Here the bicephalic embryo is described in detail and the potential reasons are discussed. The analysis of the literature on axial bifurcation in lacertids suggests that this type of developmental disorder may be particularly common in this parthenogenetic form. Hybridization may cause multiple developmental disorders, including incomplete separation of twin embryos; all parthenogenetic Darevskia have a hybrid origin, and this may cause the disorders rather than parthenogenetic reproduction by itself. The hypothesis needs further study with more representative samples of parthenogenetic and sexually reproducing Darevskia.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e110495

Authors: Tea Arabuli, Mariam Gogshelidze

Abstract: Abstract The present publication provides a review of the soil mite (Acari; Oribatida) community’s structure and the connection between changes in environmental factors and oribatid mite diversity in the limestone quarry of Saskhori and its adjacent areas. Overall, 52 species were recorded during the study. The most abundant oribatid mite species were Steganacarus carinatus, Aleurodamaeus setosus, Xenillus tegeocranus, Ceratoppia bipilis, Oribatula tibialis, and Punctoribates punctum. Interestingly, 23 species of oribatid mites were recorded for the first time from the limestone quarry of Saskhori, and one species (Liacarus oribatelloides) was a new record for the Caucasus fauna. The following indices were analyzed: abundance (N), species diversity (S), Shannon’s diversity index (H), and Pielou’s evenness index (J’). Regarding the obtained results, the highest density of oribatid mites was recorded in the habitat with Shibliak shrubbery (332 inds/m2), while the forest habitat was characterized with the highest value for Shannon’s diversity index (2,64). In the publication, we also provide a detailed morphological description of the newly recorded species L. oribatelloides, with the respective illustration, as no figures are given in its original description.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e108535

Authors: Eleonora Kiria, Shalva Barjadze, Ivan Hadrián Tuf

Abstract: Abstract The Caucasus ecoregion is distinguished by its biodiversity. The flora and fauna of the ecoregion became the study area of many zoologists and botanists. Georgia, as a part of it, is important for its valuable and impressive diversity. However, despite many years of scientific research, certain groups, among them centipedes, are not so well studied. This is the first comprehensive summary of current knowledge about centipedes distributed in the territory of Georgia, based on literature data. It provides information about 59 taxa (57 species and two subspecies) known from Georgia, belonging to 16 genera in seven families from four orders. Nineteen species are endemic to the Caucasus, eight of which are Georgian endemics. Among them, two species: Cryptops datviensis Tuf, Barjadze, and Maghradze, 2022, and Harpolithobius birsteini Zalesskaja, 1972, are troglobiotic. Another four species (Lithobius caucasicus Sseliwanoff, 1881; Lamyctes coeculus (Brölemann, 1889); Lithobius semperi (Haase, 1887); and Scolopocryptops nigridus McNeill, 1887) are considered doubtful records. An overview of local and global distribution for each taxon is included. Lithobius fasciatus Muralevitch, 1929, syn. nov. is formally synonymized with Lithobius striatus Muralevitch, 1926.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e106898

Authors: Lars Droessler, Tobias Wolff

Abstract: Abstract Main stand characteristics and tree species composition were studied in managed and old-growth Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis L.) forests in eastern Georgia (Caucasus). Oriental beech dominates both the regeneration layer and the upper story in old-growth forest. In managed forests, Caucasian hornbeam (Carpinus orientalis) and Oriental beech co-dominate the tree layer as well as the regeneration layer. Tree species diversity and deadwood proportion are higher in managed forests than in old-growth forests. However, the absolute deadwood proportion is similar in both studied forest types. Hence, deadwood proportion is not a suitable indicator to assess the naturalness or management intensity of forests in the study area. The observed proportions of Caucasian hornbeam in managed forests raise concerns about the sustainable use of beechwood in the long term. Harvesting hornbeam and smaller removals of beech are recommended to maintain the uneven-aged forest ecosystem, with Oriental beech as the dominant tree species. The established long-term study plots are important to observe and improve future stand development and forest management.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e110290

Authors: Czesław Greń, Roland Dobosz, Marek Bunalski, Andrzej Lasoń, Krzysztof Lubecki, Roman Wąsala, George Japoshvili

Abstract: Abstract Arrhaphipterus schelkownikoffi Reitter, 1893, is reported from Georgia for the first time. Detailed information on the trapping localities, as well as photographs of the male, female, male genitalia, and empodium, are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e107920

Authors: Armen Seropian, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Aleqsandre Zukakishvili

Abstract: Abstract The first representative of the footspinners - Haploembia solieri (Rambur, 1842) (Insecta, Embioptera, Oligotomidae), is reported from Georgia for the first time. Notes on the species distribution and ecology are also provided, along with a map of collecting sites, photos of a live specimen, and diagnostic drawings.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e107049

Authors: Armen Seropian, Stefan Otto, Natalia Bulbulashvili

Abstract: Spiders collected during field trips and by spontaneous hand-collecting throughout Georgia between the years 2006 and 2022 were determined to species level and partly characterized by genetic barcoding of the COI gene. Among the resulting 51 species, two are recorded for the first time from the entire Caucasus Ecoregion: Pireneitega armeniaca (Brignoli, 1978) (Agelenidae) and Leviellus caspicus (Simon, 1889) (Araneidae). Five species are reported for the first time from Georgia: Lycosoides coarctata (Dufour, 1831) (Agelenidae), and from the Araneidae: Aculepeira talishia (Zawadsky, 1902), Gibbaranea gibbosa (Walckenaer, 1802), G. omoeda (Thorell, 1870), Leviellus stroemi (Thorell, 1870) and Singa semiatra L. Koch, 1867. Additionally, Lycosoides lehtineni Marusik & Guseinov, 2003 syn. nov. is synonymized with Lycosoides coarctata (Dufour, 1831). Diagnostic drawings and photographs are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e103599

Authors: Levan Mumladze, Shamil Shetekaur, Nana Barnaveli, David Chelidze, Zezva Asanidze

Abstract: Elevational gradients in species richness and species-area relationships are among the most interesting patterns in ecology and biogeography. Both patterns can be characteristic of the same system; however, current knowledge of how these patterns co-exist and how we can disentangle their contributions to biodiversity structure is insufficient. In this article, we tested the effect of elevation and area on the formation of plant species diversity patterns in the forest-free Javakheti Highlands (Georgia). Samples (170 plots) were collected within elevations of 1400-3100 m, and the diversity distribution was examined in relation to altitude, available band area, and sampling. In total, 564 species from 67 families were recorded. Plant species richness was highest at mid-elevations (1900–2200 m), irrespective of area and sampling effort. This was in line with other studies from the Caucasus indicating the generality of plant elevational diversity patterns in the region. Area was not an important predictor of species richness; however, this may be considered a result of insufficient sampling. Our study shows that more research is needed to understand the effect of area on patterns of elevational biodiversity distribution.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e104244

Authors: Astghik Ghazarayan, Tigran Hayrpetyan, Ioseb Natradze, Steffen Roth

Abstract: Besides humans, the common bed bug Cimex lectularius uses bats as hosts, but no such records were available from the Southern Caucasus. Here, we record the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and the lesser mouse-eared bat (Myotis blythii) as hosts of C. lectularius from two Georgian and one Armenian sites. A summary of all known published records of bat-associated populations of C. lectularius shows they are both scattered and restricted to the Palearctic only. Observations of C. lectularius from bat colonies in Georgia and Armenia were made in old buildings or ruins, like churches or monasteries, but not in caves, despite a specific search. This supports previous studies suggesting that 1) bat-associations of common bed bugs are very rare outside Central Europe and 2) almost never occur in caves. We discuss climatic conditions and host preferences as possible factors for these findings and the implications for the origin of the human bed bug interaction.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e102280

Authors: Jurgen Trautner, Michael-Andreas Fritze, Asmus Schröter, Giorgi Chaladze

Abstract: Abstract In winter 2019, an excursion to the central and eastern parts of Georgia was conducted, focusing on arboreal species and other carabids overwintering under bark or at the base of trunks. Other habitat structures were also investigated. The work was done as part of ongoing studies in preparation of a new checklist of Georgian Ground Beetles and to contribute to the faunistic as well as ecological knowledge base for the main natural areas of this country. Forty-three taxa were recorded. The arboreal species Dromius agilis (Fabricius, 1787), the plant-dwelling species Demetrias imperialis (Germar, 1823), and Paradromius suturalis (Motschulsky, 1844), and another six species (Microlestes corticalis (Dufour, 1820), M. fissuralis (Reitter, 1901), M. fulvibasis (Reitter, 1901), M. luctuosus Holdhaus in Apfelbeck, 1904, Pterostichus leonisi Apfelbeck, 1904, and P. strenuus (Panzer, 1796)) are new for Georgia. In some sites, the number of recorded specimens under bark, in litter, or in the upper soil was very low, probably due to specific climatic conditions (e.g., very low humidity). It is supposed that in these areas, most of the individuals reside deeper in the soil during periods of low activity or hibernation. The number of Dromius individuals overwintering under bark near the stem base increased with altitude. The relevance of special survey methods in the winter for ground beetles is emphasized.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e105742

Authors: Eka Arsenashvili, Armen Seropian

Abstract: Abstract The genus Tropidopola (Insecta, Orthoptera) is recorded in Georgia for the first time. Detailed information on the barcode of the species, pictures of the live and preserved specimen, collecting information, and remarks on the ecology of T. turanica Uvarov, 1926, are given.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e101677

Authors: Giorgi Tedoradze, Ilia Akobia, Zurab Janiashvili, Tamar Jugeli, Nikoloz Lachashvili, Nutsa Megvinetukhutsesi, Vasil Metreveli, Giorgi Mikeladze, Zaal Kikvidze

Abstract: Abstract The checklist includes 270 species that belong to 80 families and 183 genera. Each species has been annotated with the following information: life form, wetland indicator status, and location. In this checklist, Angiosperms are represented by 252 species (93.3%), Bryophytes – 10 species (3.7%), Pteridophytes – 8 (3%), Gymnosperms – 1 (0.4%). The largest families by the number of species are Cyperaceae – 39 (14.4%), Poaceae – 29 (10.7%), Rosaceae – 19 (7.1%), Asteraceae – 17 (6.3%), Fabaceae – 11 (4.1%) and Juncaceae – 11 (4.1%). The checklist is dominated by 55 Palaearctic species (20.4%), followed by 46 Holarctic (17.1%), 31 Euro-Mediterranean (11.5%), 31 Cosmopolitan (11.5%), and 27 Euro-Siberian (10.03%) species. The endemism rate is 4.8%, and the proportion of invasive and naturalized plants is 8.5%. Obligate wetland plants, mainly belonging to the families Cyperaceae and Juncaceae, make up 34.2% of the floristic composition. This is the first comprehensive published checklist of the flora of Georgian wetlands, annotated with wetland indicator values.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e104014

Authors: Sopio Balkhamishvili

Abstract: Abstract Piophilidae Macquart, 1835, is a small family of flies widely distributed in all parts of the world but more represented in the cooler temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. At present, there is a lack of information on the distribution of this family in the Caucasus region. In this study, the family Piophilidae, with a record of Prochyliza nigrimana (Meigen, 1826), is reported for the first time from the South Caucasus ecoregion.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e96388

Authors: Shota Japarashvili

Abstract: Abstract A summarized list of Georgian earth-boring dung beetles is given, together with Georgian names, distribution data, and suggestions for national red list status according to IUCN Red List categories and criteria.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e103189

Authors: Armen Seropian, Eka Arsenashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, Aleqsandre Zukakishvili, Shota Japarashvili, Aleksi Memishishi, Levan Mumladze

Abstract: The fossorial sand cockroach Hemelytroblatta livida (Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1865) is reported from Georgia for the first time, with a commentary on the species composition of the Corydiinae Saussure, 1864 subfamily in the Caucasus. Collection data, pictures of the male and female, and DNA barcodes are also provided. Furthermore, information on Polyphaga aegyptiaca (Linnaeus, 1758) is provided, along with images of the male, female, and juvenile.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e102622

Authors: Aleksi Memishishi, Ani Bikashvili, Bella Japoshvili, Levan Mumladze

Abstract: The representatives of the genus Ametropus (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) were recorded 80 years ago in Georgia. Due to the taxonomic uncertainty, the recorded specimens were considered potentially new taxa. Since then, no other record of Ametropus has been documented from the whole South Caucasus and its nearby regions further south. In the present contribution, we provide a new record of Ametropus from the Alazani River (Kura River Basin, Georgia). Morphological and DNA barcoding of the COI gene fragment showed that the species belongs to the widespread Holarctic species A. fragilis. Morpho-anatomical characteristics also confirmed the high degree of similarity between the newly recorded specimens and those once recorded 80 years ago. In addition, the COI barcode showed a strikingly closer relationship between Caucasian A. fragilis and North American A. neavei (3.54% divergence) compared to Caucasian and European A. fragilis populations (4.3% divergence). The observed pattern clearly indicates the need for further and more thorough revision of the Ametropus species complex in the Holarctic region.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e98998

Authors: Shota Japarashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Armen Seropian, Tinatin Chkhartishvili, Giorgi Iankoshvili, Beka Chitadze, Sopio Balkhamishvili, Eka Arsenashvili, Mariami Todua, Aleksi Memishishi

Abstract: First records of two species of beetles (Insecta, Coleoptera), namely Pocadius adustus Reitter, 1888 (Nitidulidae) and Byrrhus pustulatus (Forster, 1770) (Byrrhidae) are given for Georgia. In addition, an update on the occurrences of Necrobia violacea (Linnaeus, 1758) (Cleridae), Coelostoma orbiculare (Fabricius, 1775) (Hydrophilidae) and Lycoperdina succincta (Linnaeus, 1767) (Endomychidae) are also presented based on the specimens collected in Samtskhe-Javakheti region, determined by morphological and mtDNA barcoding methods.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e101013

Authors: Levan Mumladze, Jozef Grego, Miklós Szekeres

Abstract: The Caucasus ecoregion is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in western Eurasia. Georgia is situated in the middle of this area, between the ranges of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus, a position providing exceptionally balanced environmental conditions for its flora and fauna. Animal groups of low mobility, such as land snails, are important indicators of the past and present geographic and climatic events shaping these unique ecosystems. We give an overview of the land snail family Clausiliidae in Georgia that includes 30 species, among which eight are endemic to this country. Their distribution areas are reassessed in the light of novel georeferenced occurrence data resulting from recent field work. Aspects of the origin, diversity, habitat requirements and conservation status of the Georgian Clausiliidae fauna are discussed. Additionally, Mucronaria (Mucronaria) kartvelica sp. n. is described from the Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti Region.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e101888

Authors: Beka Chitadze, Eka Arsenashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili

Abstract: The shore-bug (Leptopodidae Brullé, 1836) family is reported from Georgia for the first time upon several finds of Leptopus hispanus Rambur, 1840, and Erianotus lanosus (Dufour, 1834) (Hemiptera, Heteroptera). These species are widespread from the Mediterranean to Central Asia, including the Caucasus. Barcodes of the species, collecting information, and pictures of specimens are given.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e95777

Authors: Lali Murvanidze, Ketevan Nikolaishvili, Tsitsino Lomidze, Bella Japoshvili, Lela Arabuli, Ketevan Asatiani

Abstract: The aim of the investigation was to study the current structure of the parasitic fauna of the gibel carp (Carassius gibelio) population in the Georgian part of Jandari Lake. In total, 423 young gibel carp collected during 2014-2018 years from Jandari Lake have been subject to parasitological examination. The 20.3% (n=86) of examined fish were invaded by 11 species of parasites belonging to 5 taxonomic groups. The dominant taxonomic groups were discovered to be Protozoa and Monogenea. The eight species were registered for the first time in the gibel carp of freshwater reservoirs in Georgia. In general, young fish were more invaded by the monoxenic species of the direct life cycle. None of the revealed parasites were specific to gibel carp. The parasitic fauna of Jandari Lake is relatively poor, though it is comparatively rich and diverse in spring. Trichodina sp. from Protozoa, Ancyrocephalus sp., Dactylogyrus vastator, Gyrodactylus elegans from Monogenea, and Contracaecum sp. from Nematoda were revealed as the species most sensitive to annual changes. The main factor determining the parasite fauna of gibel carp in Lake Jandari is anthropogenic eutrophication, which changes the qualitative and quantitative composition of zooplankton, the main food source of juvenile fish and intermediate hosts of helminths. The difference in invasion indices between female and male gibel carp was insignificant. The synergetic relationship between some parasitic protozoans and monogeneans was marked.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e96039

Authors: Irakli Mikeladze, Gia Bolkvadze

Abstract: The invasion of alien plants into the territory of Georgia started in ancient times and continues today. Sicyos angulatus L., a species of North American origin, is an example of such an invasion. The first established populations of S. angulatus occurrence in Georgia were observed in 2012. Since then, new localities have been recorded, both in agricultural and disturbed natural communities. The species, which has easily adapted to local soil and climatic conditions, is expanding every year and is already widely spread in west Georgia. The plant is characterized by fast and intense growth and a climbing habit using other plants as a support. In this contribution, the peculiarities of its distribution in Georgia and the morphological features and life-history characteristics of Georgian populations are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.2.e98241

Authors: Lado Shavadze, Shalva Barjadze, Stefano Taiti

Abstract: Chaetophiloscia hastata Verhoeff, 1928 is recorded from Saskhori limestone quarry (Mtskheta municipality, eastern Georgia). This is the first confirmed record of the genus and species for the Georgian isopod fauna. The species is fully illustrated to facilitate its identification.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e83904

Authors: Shota Japarashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Armen Seropian

Abstract: The darkling beetle Palorus subdepressus (Wollaston, 1864) is recorded from Georgia for the first time. Detailed information on the recording site, pictures of the voucher specimen, and identification criteria are given, along with a mini-review of the Palorus Mulsant, 1854 species ever recorded in Georgia.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e83640

Authors: George Japoshvili, Attila Haris

Abstract: In total, 388 specimens belonging to 61 species of sawflies were collected in North-Western Georgia in 2020. Among the collected species, 29 are new country records.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e85239

Authors: George Japoshvili, Jacek Hilszczański, Adam Byk, Tomasz Jaworski, Krzysztof Łoś, Jerzy Borowski, Grzegorz Tarwacki, Jacek Piętka, Radosław Plewa

Abstract: During this survey, 195 species of coleopterans have been recorded from the Lagodekhi Protected Areas (LPA). Thirty families are recorded for the first time from this area, of which Rhysodidae, Sphindidaeand, and Thymalidae are new for Georgia. One hundred fifty-seven species are new to LPA and 66 of them are new country records.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e87258

Authors: Maka Murvanidze, George Japoshvili, Nino Inasaridze, Ferenc Deutsch

Abstract: Four genera and 12 species of drosophilid flies have been recorded during our survey in five regions of Georgia in 2021. Two genera, Amiota (Loew, 1862) and Gitona Meigen, 1830, and four species (Amiota subtusradiata Duda 1934, Drosophila busckii Coquillett 1901, D. kuntzei Duda, 1924, and Gitona distigma Meigen, 1830) represent new records for the fauna of Georgia (Sakartvelo).

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e85093

Authors: Eka Arsenashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze

Abstract: The widespread Mediterranean cricket, Arachnocephalus vestitus (Orthoptera: Mogoplistidae), is hereby reported as a new record for Georgia. In total, four females have been examined in 2020 and 2021, of which three specimens have been collected, and the information on the fourth one is based on photographic evidence. Cytochrom oxydase I (COI) barcoding further validates our finding.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e87210

Authors: Thomas Stalling, Armen Seropian

Abstract: The first record of the ant cricket Myrmecophilus acervorum in Georgia is presented. The species was discovered for the first time in Georgia in the Tbilisi region in 2021. Additional data on the distribution of M. hirticaudus in Georgia is presented.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e86183

Authors: Eka Arsenashvili, Giorgi Iankoshvili, Shota Japarashvili, Natalia Bulbulashvili, Armen Seropian

Abstract: The terrestrial woodlice Hemilepistus (Hemilepistus) klugii (Brandt, 1833) is reported from Georgia for the first time, with a commentary on the species composition of the genus Hemilepistus Budde-Lund, 1879 in the Caucasus. A short review of the ecology of the subgenus H. (Hemilepistus) is also provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e81647

Authors: George Japoshvili

Abstract: Abstract We present data on the distribution of seven wasp families, Ceraphronidae, Diapriidae, Ismaridae, Megaspilidae, Platygastridae, Proctotrupidae and Scelionidae, collected in Georgia (Sakartvelo). Thirty-three genera are recorded for the first time from Georgia and 25 of them for the Caucasus. From these, 16 species level taxa are newly recorded in Georgia, and 14 identified species are new records for the Caucasus. This brings the number of known insect species in the Lagodekhi Protected Area (LPA) to 1682.

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DOI: 10.3897/caucasiana.1.e60966

Authors: Alain Migeon, Tea Arabuli

Abstract: This article provides an updated list of the Coccinellidae of Georgia, recording 84 species. Serangium montazerii Fürsch nec S. parcesetosum Sicard is also rehabilitated as a species actually present in the country.

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