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Potential New Spider species Discovered in Taranaki, New Zealand
A remarkable finding in teh Taranaki region of New Zealand has biologists excited about the potential identification of a previously unkown spider species. The finding underscores the importance of citizen science and ongoing biodiversity research in uncovering the hidden natural world.
A biologist working with the Taranaki Regional Council stumbled upon the unique arachnid during a routine inspection of a Key Native Ecosystem in north taranaki. The discovery was made after noticing unusual spider tunnels, prompting a closer examination that revealed a spider unlike any she had encountered before.
“I just thought it was a cool spider,” the biologist stated. “I had never seen it before. It looked bigger, and it was quite hairy, and not something you see every day. It just caught my eye the fact that it was different, the size was the first thing I noticed.It’s a fairly large spider.”
After photographing the specimen with the landowner’s permission, the biologist uploaded the images to iNaturalistNZ, a popular nature identification request. This act of citizen science proved crucial,as it quickly brought the spider to the attention of experts.
Te papa PhD student Shaun Thompson contacted the biologist, suggesting the spider could represent a new species. He requested additional photographs, specifically of the abdomen, to analyze the patterning. “He sent me a message through the app, saying he thought it might a new species and it would be great if I could find another specimen and take a photo of the abdomen, so he could look at the pattern there.And so that’s what we did,” she explained.
Initial assessments indicate the spider shares similarities with Cantuaria wanganuiensis, a species found in the nearby Whanganui region. Though, key differences in the abdominal patterning suggest a distinct species. researchers are currently reviewing the Cantuaria genus to confirm the spider’s unique status.
The discovery also represents the most northern distribution of the Cantuaria genus ever recorded in New Zealand,according to the Taranaki Regional Council.
While a formal name remains some time away, Thompson has tentatively suggested “Taranaki trapdoor spider” as a potential designation. The biologist expressed immense joy at the find, despite not being the one to formally describe the species. “I cannot describe how happy it makes me, even though I will not be the one describing it. Spiders are not my expertise – and this is just absolutely fantastic for shaun as well – but I am really, really happy that I could help.”
The discovery is also a testament to the dedication of local landowners,Rob Hooper and his son Mark,who actively work to protect the region’s remaining forest ecosystems. “I was also delighted for the landowners, Rob Hooper and son Mark, as they work extremely hard to protect these forest remnants, so this is a fitting way to reward them for their mahi,” the biologist added.
The finding highlights the vast amount of undiscovered biodiversity still present, particularly among insects and invertebrates. “Especially when it comes to insects or invertebrates in general. We know very little so the more we look, the more new species are going to come to light,” she noted.
The biologist encouraged the public to participate in similar discoveries by documenting unfamiliar species on iNaturalistNZ. “Keep an eye out and take photos of everything.”
This discovery serves as a powerful reminder of the hidden wonders that await exploration and the vital role of both professional scientists and engaged citizens
