New Spider Species Discovered in Western Ghats After 118 Years

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered two new spider species in the Western Ghats. The newly found Mimetus Spinatus and Mimetus Parvulus highlight the region's biodiversity. ZSI Director Dr Dhriti Banerjee emphasized the area's importance and the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts.

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has announced the discovery of two new spider species, Mimetus Spinatus and Mimetus Parvulus, in the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot in South India.

This discovery brings the number of Mimetus species in India to three, all found in the southern region, said a ZSI statement. The spiders were collected from the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka and Ernakulam district in Kerala.

Speaking on the discovery, ZSI Director Dr Dhriti Banerjee highlighted the crucial role of the Western Ghats in India's climatic conditions and biodiversity. She noted the significance of this find, coming 118 years after the last Mimetus species was discovered in India, and stressed the need for more extensive surveys and research.

(With inputs from agencies.)