A new species of jumping spider, Spartaeus karigiri, has been discovered in southern India, highlighting the region’s biodiversity.

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