A new species of spider was discovered in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. This is a new species of Jumping Spider, which has been named Carotus Piperus. It belongs to the Salticidae family of the genus Carotus. Its name is derived from the common name of the plant ‘Piperus’, which reflects its specific habitat. According to the taxonomic description of Carotus Piperus in the Journal of Insect Biodiversity and Systematics, after this discovery, the known number of Carotus species in India has increased to 10 and 37 globally.
This spider was found during a survey in Thadiankudisai, Dindigul in 2016. The research was led by John Caleb TD of the Savetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences and M. Sampathkumar of ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources. These scientists gave a scientific description of the spider.
Habitat Information
- This species was found living on Piper nigrum plants, commonly known as black pepper plants. It was found about two meters above the ground, indicating a close relationship between the spider and these plants. The species name “piperus” is derived from the plant it lives on, indicating this unique relationship.
- This spider has some unique physical features that make it different from others. It has a prolateral protrusion (a kind of bulge) and a beak-shaped embolus, which is part of its reproductive structure. These features help scientists classify it as part of the Carrhotus genus.
- The discovery is detailed in the Journal of Insect Biodiversity and Systematics, and the researchers have stressed the need for continued study of biodiversity in India. This research helps increase our understanding of Carrhotus species and the ecosystem they live in.
Jumping Spiders
- Jumping spiders belong to the Salticidae family.
- They have very good vision, able to see colors and detect motion.
- They can jump up to 50 times their body length using a unique hydraulic system in their legs.
- Unlike most spiders, they do not spin webs to catch prey; rather, they actively hunt.
- There are over 6,000 species of jumping spiders.
- Many species have complex courtship behaviors and vibrant colors.
- Jumping spiders are found on every continent except Antarctica.