South Korea’s dark underground caves have revealed some fascinating secrets. Scientists have discovered four new species of tiny, dragon-like pseudoscorpions—blind, pale creatures that look like they came straight out of a fantasy tale.

The new species were found in separate caves across the country by Kyung-Hoon Jeong, a researcher from Jeonbuk National University. These creatures belong to the pseudoscorpion family and are part of the dragon pseudoscorpion group, known for their unique jaw-like mouthparts.

They are extremely small—only about 1 to 3 millimetres long—but what makes them stand out are their giant jaws, or chelicerae, which they use to catch their prey.

"The term dragon is used for them because of their gigantic jaws that resemble those of 'dragons in ancient mythology, '" Jeong told the BBC.

Despite their fierce jaws, these tiny critters are completely blind. That’s because they live deep inside caves where no light ever reaches. Since they never need to see, they’ve evolved without vision.

And their pale color is another result of their hidden lifestyle. Because they never step outside into the sun, their bodies don’t develop any pigment to protect them from sunlight.

These four species are believed to be found only in South Korea, making the discovery even more special. While dragon-like pseudoscorpions exist in many parts of the world—except Antarctica—most of them are not native to South Korea.

South Korea is home to nearly 1,000 caves, but scientists say most of them have never been fully explored. Kyung-Hoon Jeong believes many undiscovered species still live inside these untouched underground spaces.

Researchers warn that climate change is affecting cave ecosystems, making it harder to find and protect species like these. As temperatures rise and environments change, these tiny creatures may be at risk.

Experts are calling for more research and cave expeditions to better understand the unique life forms hiding underground. They believe it’s important to document and protect this part of South Korea’sbiodiversity before it’s too late.

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