Zoological Survey of India Scientists Discover New Spider Species in Northeast India
Kolkata, 22nd May 2025:
Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Kolkata, have recently documented four notable spider species from the northeastern region of India. This significant finding includes the description of two species previously unknown to science and the first-ever recorded presence of two additional species within the country. These discoveries underscore the considerable, yet largely unexplored, arachnid biodiversity of the region, a recognized global biodiversity hotspot, and emphasize the critical need for ongoing biodiversity research.
The newly identified species, Psechrus chizami, was discovered in Nagaland, while Psechrus nathanael has been recorded in both Nagaland and Meghalaya. The specific epithet chizami is derived from the locality of its initial collection, Chizami. Psechrus nathanael is named in honour of Mr. Nathanael P. A. Newmai, in recognition of his invaluable support during field investigations. With these additions, the total number of Psechrus species identified in India now stands at seven. Spiders of the Psechridae family construct distinctive, slightly dome-shaped sheet webs incorporating a tubular retreat, typically situated within small crevices, rock fissures, or the root systems of trees. The newly described psechrid species exhibit unique genital structures that readily distinguish them from other members of this genus. These novel findings have been published in the recent edition of the journal ZOOTAXA.
The research team, comprising Dr. Souvik Sen, Dr. Sudhin P. P., and Shouvik Mali, also documented the presence of Pardosa tuberosa and Thiania abdominalis within a relatively undisturbed habitat in Meghalaya. These species represent novel records for the Indian subcontinent, with these findings detailed in the RECORDS OF THE ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA. The wolf spider, Pardosa tuberosa, exhibits a high degree of sensitivity to environmental perturbations. Its declining populations serve as an indicator of deteriorating ecosystem health and habitat disturbance, thereby highlighting its potential as a significant bio-indicator species. The jumping spider, Thiania abdominalis, is characterized as a medium-sized species with a light reddish-brown cephalothorax and a creamy yellow abdomen marked by prominent black bands. Unlike web-building spiders, Thiania species employ agility and acute vision for prey capture, contributing to natural pest regulation within their ecological niche.
Dr. Souvik Sen, the principal investigator of this study, stated, “This discovery holds considerable significance, not only due to the identification of two new species and two new national records but also because it underscores the substantial, yet largely untapped, potential for further biodiversity research within these ecosystems. Continued exploration of these diverse habitats is likely to reveal numerous additional species awaiting scientific documentation.”
Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director of the ZSI, commented on the discovery, stating, “This finding represents an initial step, and further comprehensive surveys will be undertaken in the unexplored regions of the northeast, given its unparalleled biodiversity. A significant portion of the region’s fauna remains undiscovered. Through sustained investigation, researchers anticipate unveiling the intricate faunal diversity concealed within the forested highlands of northeast India.”
