New Wolf Spider Species Discovered In Sundarbans
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) researchers in Kolkata have recently identified a new spider species on Sagar Island in the Sundarbans. This discovery marks the first record of the genus Piratula in India. The species, named *Piratula acuminata*, belongs to the family Lycosidae, commonly known as wolf spiders. This finding marks the rich but still underexplored biodiversity of the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discovery and Identification
The new species was found during detailed field studies on Sagar Island, the largest island in the Sundarbans delta. The spider is medium-sized, measuring about 8 to 10 millimetres in length. It has a pale creamy-white body marked with brown and chalk-white spots on its abdomen and two light brown stripes at the rear. The identification was confirmed through meticulous morphological analysis, focusing on unique genital structures such as the acuminate basal arm of the tegular apophysis in males and ovate spermathecae in females.
Genus and Family Characteristics
*Piratula acuminata* is part of the wolf spider family Lycosidae. Unlike web-building spiders, wolf spiders are agile ground hunters. They rely on ambush tactics rather than webs to capture prey. The genus Piratula has a wide distribution across Asia but had not been recorded in India before this discovery. The presence of this genus in the Sundarbans expands knowledge of the region’s arachnid diversity.
Ecological Significance of Sundarbans
Sagar Island is situated within the Sundarbans delta, formed by the alluvial deposits of the Ganga River. The area consists of mudflats, estuarine waters, and mangrove forests that support a diverse range of flora and fauna. The discovery of a new spider species adds to the ecological value of this region. It also puts stress on the need for ongoing biodiversity surveys to uncover more undocumented species.
Conservation and Climate Concerns
The researchers emphasise the importance of conservation efforts in the Sundarbans. The ecosystem faces threats from climate change, rising sea levels, and human activity. About the ecological role of *Piratula acuminata* and its vulnerability is crucial. Protecting such species helps maintain the balance of this fragile ecosystem and preserves its natural heritage for future generations.
Research and Publication
The discovery was made by a team including Dr Souvik Sen and Sudhin P. P. from ZSI Kolkata, and Dr Pradeep M. Sankaran from Sacred Heart College, Cochin. Their work was published in the peer-reviewed journal *Zootaxa*. This adds credibility to the finding and provides a scientific basis for further studies on the Sundarbans’ biodiversity.
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