A new species of beetle hides in the depths of Etna

Etna's caves, despite being the subject of in-depth studies, conceal a rich ecosystem about which we still know very little. It is no coincidence that on each side of the imposing volcano, experts continue to engage in in-depth research, carefully monitoring even the deepest areas, which are sometimes difficult to explore. In the heart of Etna's volcanic caves, a team of experts led by biospeleologist Giuseppe Nicolosi in collaboration with Professor Giorgio Sabella of the Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences of the University of Cataniahas made an extraordinary discovery, identifying a new species of beetle called Bryaxis aetnensis.

The discovery of Bryaxis aetnensis was documented in an article entitled "A New Species of Bryaxis (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae) from Mount Etna (Sicily, Italy) and Notes on Its Ecology and Distribution' published in the international scientific journal 'Animals.' This beetle belongs to the Staphylinidae family and is distinguished by its small size, elongated shape and very short wings that leave a large part of the abdomen uncovered. Bryaxis aetnensis has been found on various slopes of Etna, at altitudes ranging from 600 metres to over 1,400 metres. This suggests a considerable adaptability of Bryaxis aetnensis to different microclimatic conditions, resulting in morphological variation between specimens from different areas. For example, the insect appears to be larger at higher altitudes and smaller at lower altitudes.

Professor Nicolosi commented on the discovery, stating: "The finding motivates us to conduct further studies on Etna's fauna and to protect these still little-known environments.. This new beetle represents just one of many discoveries made in Etna's volcanic ecosystem. The volcano is home to a wide variety of endemic species, including the Anthocharis Damone butterfly, also known as the Aurora of Etna, and the Ergates Faber beetle, which can only be found in the centuries-old Pineta Ragabo at an altitude of 1,400 metres.

Etna confirms itself not only as a geological wonder but also as a sanctuary of biodiversity. Its natural history, still largely unwritten, continues to arouse the curiosity and interest of scholars all over the world.