2 new spider species discovered in Nagaland, Meghalaya; ZSI points to importance of biodiversity studies in Northeast
Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Kolkata, have recently documented four notable spider species from Northeast India. This significant finding includes the description of two species previously unknown to science and the first-ever recorded presence of two other species within the country.
The newly identified species Psechrus chizami was discovered in Nagaland, while Psechrus nathanael was recorded in both Nagaland and Meghalaya. The specific epithet chizami is derived from the locality of its initial collection, Chizami. Psechrus nathanael is named in honour of Nathanael P A Newmai in recognition of his invaluable support during field investigations. With these additions, the number of Psechrus species identified in India now stands at seven.
Spiders of the Psechridae family construct distinctive, slightly dome-shaped sheet webs incorporating a tubular retreat, typically situated within small crevices, rock fissures, or the root systems of trees.
The research team, comprising Dr Souvik Sen, Dr Sudhin P P, and Shouvik Mali, also documented the presence of Pardosa tuberosa and Thiania abdominalis within a relatively undisturbed habitat in Meghalaya.
The wolf spider, Pardosa tuberosa, exhibits high sensitivity to environmental perturbations. Its declining population indicates deteriorating ecosystem health and habitat disturbance, thereby highlighting its potential as a significant bioindicator species.
The jumping spider, Thianiaabdominalis, is characterised as a medium-sized species with a light reddish-brown cephalothorax and a creamy yellow abdomen marked by prominent black bands. Unlike web-building spiders, Thiania species employ agility and acute vision for prey capture, contributing to natural pest regulation within their ecological niche.
Dr Souvik Sen, the principal investigator of this study, said, 'This discovery holds considerable significance, not only due to the identification of two new species and two new national records but also because it underscores the substantial, yet largely untapped, potential for further biodiversity research within these ecosystems. Continued exploration of these diverse habitats is likely to reveal numerous additional species awaiting scientific documentation.'
Dr Dhriti Banerjee, director of the ZSI, said, 'This finding represents an initial step, and further comprehensive surveys will be undertaken in the unexplored regions of the northeast, given its unparalleled biodiversity. A significant portion of the region's fauna remains undiscovered. Through sustained investigation, researchers anticipate unveiling the intricate faunal diversity concealed within the forested highlands of northeast India.'
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