Why in News ?
- Researchers have discovered a new species of jumping spider belonging to the Pilia genus at Madhugundi village, Mudigere taluk, Chikkamagaluru district (Karnataka).
- The species has been named Pilia malenadu, after the locality where it was found.
- The discovery has been published in the international journal Zootaxa and marks the first recorded sighting of this genus in over 120 years.
Relevance :
GS Paper III (Environment & Biodiversity):
- Discovery of new species — importance for taxonomy and conservation.
- Biodiversity significance of the Western Ghats (UNESCO site).
- Threats to microhabitats and endemic fauna.
- Role of local biodiversity registers and community participation.
GS Paper I (Geography):
- Biodiversity hotspots and biogeographical zones of India.
Basic Facts
- Scientific Name: Pilia malenadu
- Genus: Pilia (Family: Salticidae — Jumping spiders)
- Discovered by: Ajit Padiyar, naturalist at Madhugundi
- Location: Madhugundi village, Western Ghats (Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka)
- Specimens Found: 24 individuals (17 males, 3 females, 4 juveniles)
About the Genus Pilia
- Pilia genus of jumping spiders (Salticidae) was first described in 1902 in Kerala — over 123 years ago.
- Till now, Pilia species were rarely observed and not documented elsewhere in India since the early 20th century.
- These spiders are small, agile predators known for excellent vision and jumping ability.
Significance of the Discovery
- Taxonomic Importance:
- Extends scientific knowledge of the Pilia genus.
- First time both male and female specimens of Pilia genus have been found.
- Biodiversity Indicator:
- Discovery in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage biodiversity hotspot, underscores its ecological richness.
- Suggests healthy and intact microhabitats at the foothills of the Western Ghats.
- Historical Significance:
- Rediscovery of a genus after over a century highlights the underexplored fauna of the Ghats.
Habitat
- Habitat-specific — found only around two plant species:
- Memecylon umbellatum
- Memecylon malabaricum
- Indicates narrow ecological niche and dependence on specific vegetation.
Conservation Concerns
- Habitat Specificity:
- Such species are vulnerable to habitat loss, deforestation, and land-use change.
- Researchers warn that if the habitat is disturbed, the species could face extinction.
- Conservation Priority:
- Protection of Western Ghats ecosystems essential for preserving microfaunal diversity.
- Reinforces the need for localized biodiversity monitoring and microhabitat protection.
Broader Implications
- For Science: Encourages continued taxonomic surveys in underexplored ecosystems.
- For Policy: Highlights importance of community–based biodiversity conservation in Western Ghats.
- For Education: Adds to India’s growing record of new endemic species — particularly arachnids and insects.
Related Context
- Western Ghats Biodiversity:
- One of eight “hottest” biodiversity hotspots globally.
- Home to over 7,400 plant species and 139 mammal species, many endemic.
- New species of amphibians, spiders, and plants continue to be discovered annually.
- Recent Discoveries in Region:
- Hygrocrates wayanadensis (spider, Kerala)
- Raorchestes chalazodes (frog rediscovery, Tamil Nadu)
- Nasikabatrachus bhupathi (purple frog, Western Ghats)
Way Forward
- Conduct micro-faunal mapping of Western Ghats regions.
- Include local naturalists in biodiversity documentation programs.
- Integrate findings into State Biodiversity Boards’ People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs).
- Promote eco-sensitive zone management around Chikkamagaluru and Kodagu.
