A new species of cave-dwelling insect has been discovered on the Greek island of Kastellorizo, adding another unexpected chapter to the biodiversity of the eastern Mediterranean.

The species, named Dolichopoda balrogi, was found inside an artificial underground tunnel on the island and has now been formally described by Greek researchers in the Journal of Orthoptera Research.

It belongs to the genus Dolichopoda, a group of cave crickets that live in dark, humid underground environments such as caves, crevices and tunnels. These insects are of particular interest to scientists because isolated cave populations can evolve into distinct species over time.

The new insect was discovered during a survey of a man-made tunnel on Mount Vigla, considered Kastellorizo’s only accessible land cave. Researchers found a population of cave crickets clinging to the tunnel walls and later confirmed, through morphological study and DNA analysis, that they represented a previously unknown species.

The name balrogi was inspired by the Balrog, the ancient underground creature from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Scientists said the reference was fitting, as the insect was found hidden in a deep, dark tunnel – much like Tolkien’s legendary creature beneath the mountains.

Unlike the fictional Balrog, however, Dolichopoda balrogi is harmless. Its discovery underlines how even small islands and human-made underground structures can host species that have remained unnoticed for decades.

Kastellorizo, despite its small size, occupies an important position in the eastern Mediterranean and is considered a valuable area for the study of island biodiversity. The finding suggests that other Greek islands may still shelter unknown species, particularly in caves, tunnels and other poorly explored habitats.

Researchers also warn that cave-adapted species are often highly vulnerable, as they may exist only in a single underground system. For that reason, documenting them is considered a crucial first step towards their protection.