Why in news?
Researchers documenting spiders in the Western Ghats have described a new species of jumping spider named Pilia malenadu. The genus Pilia was last recorded more than a century ago and only from male specimens. This discovery, made in Karnataka’s Chikkamagaluru district, not only adds a species to the catalogue but also provides the first description of a female.
Background
Jumping spiders belong to the family Salticidae, known for their large forward‑facing eyes and ability to leap several times their body length. Unlike web‑weaving spiders, they rely on excellent vision and quick jumps to stalk and pounce on prey. The genus Pilia was originally described from Sri Lanka in 1902. Since then no new species were added and only male specimens were known. The 2024–25 surveys in Karnataka, therefore, filled an important gap in our knowledge.
Key observations
- Rediscovery of the genus: Field teams found 24 individuals of Pilia malenadu on creeper plants in forest edges and coffee plantations. Both males and females were collected, allowing for a complete description.
- Morphological features: Pilia spiders have stout, forward‑facing front legs and differ from the similar genus Bristowia by lacking a triangular apophysis (a pointed outgrowth) on the male reproductive organ. Females can be recognised by an arc‑shaped structure called the spermatheca.
- Habitat and behaviour: The spiders were encountered from January 2024 to March 2025 on two specific plant species. Researchers even observed a parasitic wasp larva feeding on one female, indicating complex ecological interactions.
- Conservation importance: Many jumping spiders are habitat‑specific. Documenting such species helps identify microhabitats that require protection.
Significance
- Filling taxonomic gaps: Finding a living population of Pilia after 123 years, and especially describing the female for the first time, enriches our understanding of spider diversity and evolution.
- Highlighting Lesser‑known fauna: Spiders are important predators of insects. New discoveries draw attention to their role in pest control and ecosystem balance.
- Encouraging local surveys: The find underscores the need for systematic surveys in under‑explored regions of the Western Ghats, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
Conclusion
The discovery of Pilia malenadu demonstrates that even well‑known groups like jumping spiders can reveal surprises when scientists look closely. Protecting forest edges and coffee plantations in the Western Ghats will help preserve the unique microhabitats where such specialised species thrive.
Source: Bangalore Mirror