A remarkable discovery has taken place in southern India with the identification of a new species of jumping spider, Spartaeus karigiri. This spider belongs to the Spartaeinae subfamily, which is recognized for its advanced hunting techniques and web invasion capabilities.
The newfound spider was identified in Karigiri (Elephant Hill), located in Devarayanadurga of Karnataka. Additionally, it was also located in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu.
This finding is particularly significant as it marks the first recorded instance of spiders from the Spartaeus and Sonoita genera in India. Previously, these genera were believed to be confined to regions in Southeast Asia and Africa.
Spiders within the Spartaeinae subfamily are notable for their exceptional vision and tactical hunting methods. They are known to invade other spiders' webs and exhibit mimicry to deceive their prey, enhancing their hunting efficiency.
The research was spearheaded by John Caleb T.D. from Saveetha Medical College in Chennai, in collaboration with a team of Indian researchers from various institutions.
The identification of Spartaeus karigiri involved observing males concealed in crevices and females protecting their eggs. Researchers documented the specimens through detailed drawings and imaging techniques.
In addition to the new species, another spider, Sonoita cf. lightfooti, previously thought to be exclusive to Africa, was discovered in Karnataka. This indicates a potential expansion of its geographical range or a new introduction to the region.
Furthermore, the species Marpissa gangasagarensis, documented in 2005 in West Bengal, has been confirmed to be synonymous with Pharacius fimbriatus, which was described back in 1900, adding to the understanding of spider taxonomy in India.
Q1. What is Spartaeus karigiri?
Answer: Spartaeus karigiri is a newly discovered species of jumping spider found in southern India, notable for its advanced hunting techniques.
Q2. Where was Spartaeus karigiri discovered?
Answer: The spider was discovered in Karigiri, Karnataka, and in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu.
Q3. Why is the discovery of Spartaeus karigiri significant?
Answer: It is significant as it represents the first instance of the Spartaeus and Sonoita genera being found in India, expanding their known geographical range.
Q4. Who conducted the research on Spartaeus karigiri?
Answer: The research was led by John Caleb T.D. from Saveetha Medical College in Chennai, along with various Indian researchers.
Q5. What are the key characteristics of Spartaeinae spiders?
Answer: Spartaeinae spiders possess sharp vision and employ intelligent hunting strategies, including web invasion and prey mimicry to enhance their hunting success.
Question 1: Where was the new spider species Spartaeus karigiri discovered?
A) Rajasthan
B) Karnataka
C) Kerala
D) Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is unique about the Spartaeinae subfamily of spiders?
A) They are nocturnal.
B) They have advanced web-building techniques.
C) They exhibit intelligent hunting strategies.
D) They are found only in Africa.
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: Who led the research on Spartaeus karigiri?
A) A team from Tamil Nadu
B) John Caleb T.D.
C) An international team
D) A student research group
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What other spider species was found alongside Spartaeus karigiri?
A) Marpissa gangasagarensis
B) Sonoita cf. lightfooti
C) Pharacius fimbriatus
D) None
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: In which year was Marpissa gangasagarensis first described?
A) 1900
B) 2005
C) 1999
D) 2010
Correct Answer: B
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