SPARTAENAE KARIGIRI
A group of scientists has discovered a previously unknown species of jumping spider from the Spartaeinae subfamily in southern India. This group of spiders is noted for its clever hunting methods and its ability to invade other spiders’ webs. According to the researchers, this may be the first recorded instance of the genera Spartaeus and Sonoita—previously observed only in Southeast Asia and Africa—being identified in India. In their natural habitat, the male specimen was found concealed within rocky crevices, while the female was observed protecting a clutch of eggs.
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Spartaeinae is a primitive subfamily of jumping spiders, known for their unusual hunting techniques.
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Unlike most jumping spiders that rely on direct vision and leaping attacks, many Spartaeinae are araneophagic, meaning they prey on other spiders.
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They show intelligent hunting behavior, often mimicking vibrations on webs to lure other spiders.
Habitat and Discovery:
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The species was discovered in the Karigiri Hills, a hill range in Tamil Nadu, India.
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This area is a part of the Eastern Ghats, which is known for its rich biodiversity.
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These spiders are typically found in forest undergrowth, leaf litter, or shrubs, and they thrive in warm, moist environments.
- A new species of jumping spider, named Spartaeus karigiri, has been identified by researchers in the southern region of India. This discovery marks a significant addition to the country's biodiversity and provides valuable insights into the distribution of the Spartaeinae subfamily of spiders.
- This finding is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first documented record of the genus Spartaeus in India. Previously, members of this genus were known to inhabit areas in East and Southeast Asia. The discovery of S. karigiri in India extends the known geographical range of this group of jumping spiders.
- Spartaeus karigiri belongs to the family Salticidae, commonly known as jumping spiders, which is the largest family of spiders. The subfamily Spartaeinae, to which this new species belongs, is considered to be a basal group, meaning it diverged early in the evolutionary history of jumping spiders. They are known for their often-unusual hunting techniques and morphology compared to other jumping spiders
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For Prelims: Jumping spider, Spartaeinae subfamily, Karigiri Hills, Eastern Ghats
For Mains: GS III - Biodiversity Hotspots, Eastern Ghats biodiversity
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