# DNA Barcoding and Phylogenetic Relationship of Parabuthus liosoma (Ehrenberg, 1828) (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Saudi Arabia

## TL;DR

This study uses DNA barcoding to explore the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of the Parabuthus liosoma scorpion in Saudi Arabia.

## Contribution

The first DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis of Parabuthus liosoma in Saudi Arabia is conducted.

## Key findings

- DNA barcoding revealed high genetic diversity within Parabuthus liosoma.
- Parabuthus species form a monophyletic group with distinct Arabian and African lineages.

## Abstract

Accurate species identification is essential for effective conservation of biodiversity. Parabuthus liosoma is one of the largest buthid scorpion species, which is restricted to Saudi Arabia and Yemen. For the first time in Saudi Arabia, DNA barcoding is used as a tool to enhance our knowledge of the evolutionary history of this species. DNA barcoding reveals high genetic diversity in P. liosoma, aiding species identification and validating its use in scorpion taxonomy. Also, Parabuthus shows a monophyletic relationship with distinct Arabian and African lineages, highlighting biogeographic divergence.

(1) Background. Parabuthus liosoma is one of the largest buthid scorpion species and is endemic to Saudi Arabia and Yemen. This study provides the first DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis of P. liosoma from Saudi Arabia, contributing to global efforts in arachnid molecular identification and biodiversity documentation. (2) Methods. The whole genome was extracted from nine adult individuals of P. liosoma, collected from Farasan Island, southwest of Saudi Arabia. A portion of the mitochondrial DNA, specifically, the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI) sequences, was amplified and sequenced and subjected to genetic and phylogenetic analyses. (3) Results. The DNA barcoding results revealed a high level of genetic variability within P. liosoma, aiding in species identification and supporting its utility as a molecular tool for scorpion taxonomy. In addition, our results reveal a monophyletic relationship among Parabuthus species, with a clear distinction between Arabian and African lineages. (4) Conclusions. This study highlights the effectiveness of DNA barcoding as a reliable tool for species identification and taxonomy and enhances our knowledge of the evolutionary history and geographic distribution of Parabuthus scorpions. However, further research is required to elucidate the complex phylogenetic relationships within this genus.