New Species of Jumping Spider Discovered in India
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A new species of jumping spider, Spartaeus karigiri, has been discovered in Devarayanadurga, Karnataka, and Villupuram, Tamil Nadu.
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This marks the first reported presence in India of the genera Spartaeus and Sonoita (Spartaeinae subfamily), previously known only from Southeast Asia and Africa.
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Spartaeus karigiri was named after Karigiri (Elephant Hill), with males found in rocky crevices and females guarding egg clutches.
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The spiders are part of the Salticidae family, known for sharp vision and web-invasion hunting tactics.
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Another spider, Sonoita cf. lightfooti, previously thought to exist only in Africa, was found in Karnataka, raising questions about range extension or introduction.
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Additionally, Marpissa gangasagarensis (described in 2005) was found to be the same species as Phaeacius fimbriatus (described in 1900).
Q1. With reference to the newly discovered jumping spider Spartaeus karigiri, consider the following statements:
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It is the first time that the genera Spartaeus and Sonoita of the subfamily Spartaeinae have been recorded in India.
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These spiders are known for mimicking prey and invading the webs of other spiders.
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The species was discovered only in the Eastern Ghats region of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation: The spider was found in Karnataka (Western Ghats) and Tamil Nadu, not only in the Eastern Ghats.
UPSC Relevance:
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Biodiversity discovery, species distribution, taxonomy, and range extension — important for Environment & Ecology section in Prelims.