The researchers noted that most mesothelian species are at risk, so it is important to search for and identify them before they disappear.
A group of scientists from institutions in China and Singapore discovered three new species of mesothelian spiders of the genus ‘Songthela’ at various sites in China’s Hunan province.
In previous research, spiders (order ‘Araneae’) were classified into three suborders. The first corresponds to mygalomorphs, which are characterized by having heavy bodies, and sometimes hairy legs, such as funnel-web spiders and tarantulas.
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The second is made up of the araneomorphs, which are distinguished by having chelicerae, which are appendages with cutting edges in the shape of a pincer, which point diagonally downwards and cross each other. These arachnids use their silk to wrap eggs and line burrows, but not for hunting.
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The latter is composed of the mesotela, considered the most primitive of living spiders. These arthropods have segmented abdomens generally covered with plates, as well as being small in size (1 to 2 centimeters long). They usually inhabit small environments in some parts of Asia, such as groves, caves, and mountain folds.
Describing the new species
In this new study, recently published in the journal ZooKeys, three new Mesotelian species, scientifically named ‘Songthela zhongpo’, ‘Songthela longhui’ and ‘Songthela anhua’, were identified and described. These arachnids were named for the genus and the regions of Hunan province in which they were found.
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Scientists collected live subadult specimens from various locations, including parks, fields, and other areas. Later they were taken to the laboratory with the purpose of raising them until they reached maturity. According to those responsible for the research, one of the surest ways to identify mesothelion spiders is by comparing their sexual organs (male palp and female genitalia), something that is only possible in mature specimens.
The researchers indicated that most mesothelian species are at risk because they inhabit limited geographic areas, so it is important to search for and identify them before they disappear as a result of human activities.
