The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has recently discovered two new spider species, Mimetus spinatus & Mimetus parvulus, in the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka, and Ernakulam district, Kerala.
- This marks the first report of the genus Mimetus since the discovery of Mimetus indicus in India 118 years ago.
About Mimetidae Family:
- Family: Mimetidae, known as pirate or cannibal spiders.
- Behavior: These spiders are noted for their unique predatory behavior, infiltrating other spiders’ webs and mimicking prey or mates to deceive and kill the host spider.
About Mimetus spinatus:
- Appearance: Medium-sized, with a pale yellow head and dull grey-white abdomen featuring scattered light green mottling.
- Distinctive Features: Long, black, flattened spine-like hairs on the dorsal head.
About Mimetus parvulus:
- Appearance: Pale creamy-rose head with dense grey-black mottling and a triangular-shaped, dull grey-white abdomen.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
What makes the Mimetus spiders unique in their predatory behavior?
The Mimetus spiders infiltrate other spiders’ webs and mimic prey or mates to deceive and kill the host spider, a behavior that sets them apart from typical predators in the animal kingdom.
What are the distinctive features of Mimetus spinatus?
Mimetus spinatus is medium-sized with a pale yellow head and a dull grey-white abdomen. It also features long, black, flattened spine-like hairs on the dorsal head, making it easily distinguishable from other spider species.
Where were Mimetus spinatus and Mimetus parvulus recently discovered?
Both Mimetus spinatus and Mimetus parvulus were recently discovered in the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka and the Ernakulam district in Kerala, marking the first report of the genus Mimetus in India in over a century.
What is the significance of the discovery of Mimetus spinatus and Mimetus parvulus?
The discovery of these new spider species is significant as it marks the first report of the genus Mimetus in India since the discovery of Mimetus indicus 118 years ago, providing valuable insights into the biodiversity of the region.
How do the appearances of Mimetus spinatus and Mimetus parvulus differ?
Mimetus spinatus has a pale yellow head and a dull grey-white abdomen with scattered light green mottling, while Mimetus parvulus has a pale creamy-rose head with dense grey-black mottling and a triangular-shaped, dull grey-white abdomen, showcasing their unique physical characteristics.