About Spartaeus karigiri
- Species Name: Spartaeus karigiri—a new jumping spider in the subfamily Spartaeinae (Salticidae) .
- Discovery Location: First documented in Karigiri (Elephant Hill), Devarayanadurga, Karnataka; also found in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu .
- Biogeography: Marks the first record of the genus Spartaeus (and Sonoita) in India, previously known only in Southeast Asia and Africa .
- Habitat: Prefers rocky outcrops and forested terrain; shelters in crevices and old wall fissures, spin retreat shelters from silk .
- Behavior & Morphology: Exhibits smart hunting using visual acuity, web-invasion, and prey mimicry. Male and female morphologies distinctly captured in holotype & paratype images .
Eco-significance
- Biodiversity Impact: India’s Spartaeinae diversity now includes 15 species across 10 genera .
- Distributional Insight: Extends known range of Spartaeus and Sonoita—first continental Indian presence .
- Indicator Potential: Jumping spiders are excellent ecological indicators—reflect habitat health and help in pest control
UPSC Relevance
- Prelims
- Category: Jumping spider (Salticidae) → potential MCQ
- Identification: Belongs to subfamily Spartaeinae; distinct genus record in India.
- Mains (GS-3, Biodiversity & Ecology)
- Discuss: Role of new species discoveries in assessing ecological richness and need for conservation.
- Example: Spartaeus karigiri expands India’s biodiversity record, underscoring the Western Ghats–Deccan region’s ecological significance.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Taxonomy | Genus Spartaeus, new to India |
| Locations | Karigiri (Karnataka), Villupuram (TN) |
| Habitat | Crevices in rocky/forested areas |
| Behavior | Visual, mimicry-based hunting |
| Significance | Biogeographical expansion, biodiversity addition, ecological indicator |