New Jumping Spider Species Discovered in Southern India

A group of scientists in southern India has discovered a brand-new species of jumping spider, Spartaeus karigiri, apparently the first occurrence of some specific genera in the country. Dubbed to have very good hunting strategies, these spiders were found in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu states and they posed an immense contribution to arachnology in India.

Context

• Another jumping spider, Spartaeus karigiri was found in southern India and it may be the first discovery of Spartaeus and Sonoita genus in India. 

• It is observed in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and is known for its hunting skill and web-invasion techniques.

Key Points

• Species Discovery

  • Spartaeus karigiri a cavity found in Karigiri, Karnataka.

  • It was named after Elephant Hill (Karigiri).

• New Genera in India

  • The first report of Spartaeus and Sonoita genera in India.

  • Hitherto only recorded in Southeast Asia and Africa.

• Trait and Family

  • Belongs to Salticidae (jumping spiders).

  • Has a reputation of good eyesight and energetic hunter.

• Research Team

  • John Caleb T.D., (Saveetha Medical College, Chennai) was its head.

  • Illustrations Zoological Survey of India.

• Habitat Behavior

  • Male in sunken rocks; female protecting egg nests.

  • They are also present in Tamil Nadu (Villupuram district).

• Notable Finding

  • Sonoita cf. lightfooti IN Karnataka (was African).

  • A natural spread or introduced species.

• Taxonomy Impact

  • Verifies Marpissa gangasagarensis( Phaeacius fimbriatus).

  • Adds to Indian spider biodiversity list.

Conclusion

Subsequent to Spartaeus karigiri and other species isolated in South India increases the insight of the spider biodiversity in this area. This discovery of hitherto undiscovered genera in India stresses that more work and exploration are required to study the various ecosystems in this country.