New Species of Eight-Eyed Monster Spider Discovered in Abandoned Mexico Mine
Image credit: jorgehvaldez
Jim Berrian, one of the researchers who found the spider, experienced a bite of Califorctenus cacachilensis and described it as “like being poked by a cactus spine and a little mild pain.” The spider is nocturnal and hunts for prey on the ground. It is not aggressive, but will defend itself if threatened.
The discovery of the new spider species important for several reasons. First, it adds to our knowledge of the biodiversity of Mexico and the world. The researchers estimate that there are about 150 species of ctenids in Mexico, but only 20 have been formally described. This means that there are many more spiders waiting to be discovered and studied.
Second, it shows that even large and conspicuous animals can remain hidden from science for a long time. The Sierra de las Cacachilas is not a remote or inaccessible area; it is close to La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur. Yet, no one had noticed this spider before. This suggests that there are still many surprises in nature, even in places that seem familiar.
Jim Berrian, one of the researchers who found the spider, experienced a bite of Califorctenus cacachilensis and described it as “like being poked by a cactus spine and a little mild pain.” The spider is nocturnal and hunts for prey on the ground. It is not aggressive, but will defend itself if threatened.
The discovery of the new spider species important for several reasons. First, it adds to our knowledge of the biodiversity of Mexico and the world. The researchers estimate that there are about 150 species of ctenids in Mexico, but only 20 have been formally described. This means that there are many more spiders waiting to be discovered and studied.
Second, it shows that even large and conspicuous animals can remain hidden from science for a long time. The Sierra de las Cacachilas is not a remote or inaccessible area; it is close to La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur. Yet, no one had noticed this spider before. This suggests that there are still many surprises in nature, even in places that seem familiar.
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29 December 2023
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