New Jumping Spider Species Discovered in Tamil Nadu

In September 2024, a newly identified jumping spider, Carrhotus piperus, highlights the rich biodiversity of the lower Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu, expanding the known Carrhotus species count in India to ten.

Key Points

Discovery Details: Carrhotus piperus was discovered during a 2016 survey in Thadiyankudisai, Dindigul, where the spider was found on pepper (Piper nigrum) plants, approximately two meters above the ground.
Species Name Origin: The specific epithet ‘piperus’ is derived from the plant’s generic name, reflecting the spider's unique habitat on pepper plants.
Distinctive Features: Carrhotus piperus is distinguishable by its unique prolateral protrusion and beak-shaped embolus, differentiating it from closely related species in the Carrhotus genus.