New Lynx Spider Species Found in Meghalaya

A new species of lynx spider, Hamataliwa mawlyngot, was discovered in Mawlyngot village in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya in June 2026. The species was identified by scientists from the Zoological Survey of India and the University of Calcutta, and the study was published in National Academy Science Letters in June 2026.

Lynx Spiders: Taxonomy and Behaviour

Lynx spiders belong to the family Oxyopidae, which includes active hunting spiders found in vegetation. They do not build webs to trap prey and use sharp vision to stalk insects on leaves and shrubs. The genus Hamataliwa was recorded for the first time in Meghalaya through this discovery.

Species Features and Habitat

The spider is smaller than a fingernail and was found on hillside shrubs, including Molucca brambles. The habitat lies in the East Khasi Hills, a district in Meghalaya that forms part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot.

Scientific Record and Distribution

The study was authored by Souvik Sen, Upasana Bhattacharya, and Puthoor Pattammal Sudhin. The record extends the known Indian distribution of the genus Hamataliwa and fills a geographical gap between the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

Important Facts for Exams

• Hamataliwa is a genus of lynx spiders in the family Oxyopidae.
• Lynx spiders are active hunters and do not use webs to catch prey.
• Meghalaya is part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot.
• The East Khasi Hills district is located in Meghalaya, India.