Kolkata & Nagaland, India: In a significant contribution to arachnid taxonomy, a team of researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Kolkata, has announced the discovery of two spider species previously unknown to science. These new findings emphasise the rich and largely unexplored biodiversity of Nagaland, a region within the biodiversity hotspot of Northeast India.
Unveiling Nagaland’s Hidden Arachnid Diversity: Psechrus chizami and Psechrus nathanael
The two newly described spider species belong to the genus Psechrus, known as sheet web spiders. The discoveries include:
Psechrus chizami: This species was discovered in Chizami, a village in the Phek District of Nagaland. The species name directly honors its collection locality, highlighting the importance of this region’s unique fauna.
Psechrus nathanael: This species was recorded from two distinct locations: the Peren district of Nagaland and the Ri-Bhoi District of Meghalaya. The species is named in honour of Nathanael P. A. Newmai, acknowledging his valuable support provided during the crucial field surveys that led to this discovery.
India’s Psechrus Species Count Rises
With the addition of Psechrus chizami and Psechrus nathanael, the total number of known Psechrus spider species in India has now increased to seven. These spiders are characterized by their unique habit of constructing slightly dome-shaped sheet webs, often featuring a tube-like retreat nestled in small crevices, rock gaps, or around tree roots.
Distinctive Genital Structures Key to Identification
According to the research findings, these newly identified Psechrus species can be readily distinguished from other members of the genus based on the unique morphology of their genital structures. This detailed anatomical analysis is crucial for accurate species identification in arachnology. The comprehensive description of these new species has been published in the recent issue of the esteemed scientific journal ‘ZOOTAXA’.
Lead Researcher Emphasizes Untapped Biodiversity Potential
Dr. Souvik Sen, the lead researcher spearheading this significant study, highlighted the broader implications of the discovery. “This is a significant discovery not only because we found two new species, but also because it reflects the largely untapped potential for further biodiversity research in these areas. As we continue to explore these diverse ecosystems, we may uncover many more species that are yet to be documented,” Dr. Sen stated.
ZSI Director Highlights Ongoing Biodiversity Exploration in Northeast India
Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, the Director of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), emphasise the importance of these findings within the context of the region’s biodiversity. “This discovery is just the beginning, and further surveys will be conducted in the unexplored corners of the northeastern region as the biodiversity here is unparalleled. There is still a lot that is yet to be discovered. With continued investigation, the researchers hope to unravel the faunal mysteries that lurk amidst the forested hills of northeast India,” Dr. Banerjee pointed out.
Significance for Biodiversity Research and Conservation
These remarkable discoveries of Psechrus chizami and Psechrus nathanael not only enrich our understanding of India’s arachnid fauna but also vividly illustrate the rich yet largely unexplored biodiversity harboured within Nagaland. This finding emphasizes the critical need for continued and intensified biodiversity research efforts in Northeast India, recognized as one of the world’s most vital biodiversity hotspots. Unveiling and documenting the region’s unique species is crucial for effective conservation strategies and for appreciating the intricate web of life that thrives in this ecologically significant area.