Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Environment
Why in News?
Recently, ZSI researchers discovered 2 new spider species in subterranean caves of Meghalaya and canopies of Andhra Pradesh.
|
Attribute |
Simonia lawbah (Cave Ray Spider) |
Hamataliwa papikonda (Canopy Lynx Spider) |
|
Scientific Name |
Simonia lawbah |
Hamataliwa papikonda |
|
Family |
Ray Spiders (Theridiosomatidae) |
Lynx Spiders (Oxyopidae) |
|
Location |
Krem Lawbah Cave, Lawbah, Meghalaya |
Papikonda National Park, Andhra Pradesh |
|
Ecosystem |
Subterranean cave (troglophilic) |
Mixed deciduous forest canopy |
|
Body Size |
Microscopic |
Petite |
|
Key Feature |
Cone‑shaped “ray webs” used as slingshots to catch flying insects |
Hexagonal eye structure, spiny legs, high‑speed arboreal hunting (no webs) |
|
Taxonomic Significance |
First record of genus Simonia in India |
First record of genus Hamataliwa in Andhra Pradesh |
|
Ecological Role |
Cave‑dwelling predator using web mechanics |
Agile canopy predator relying on speed and vision |
|
Significance |
Expands distribution of Theridiosomatidae; highlights hidden cave biodiversity |
Highlights Eastern Ghats as evolutionary pocket; expands Oxyopidae records |
Reference
