Researchers have found a new species of tarantula in western Cuba. Named Trichopelma grande, it is the biggest and hairiest spider in its group. The discovery was made by David Ortiz from Masaryk University in Czechia and Elier Fonseca from the Cuban Zoological Society.
The islands of the Greater Antilles, which include Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico, are a special place for studying how species evolve. These islands were once connected, but they have been separated for millions of years. This has allowed animals on each island to grow and change in different ways, leading to the development of unique species.
These conditions have caused many animals to develop in extraordinary ways, leading to the creation of species found only in this region. Among these, tarantulas have shown incredible variety and adaptation.
🚨🇨🇺NEW HAIRY GIANT TARANTULA DISCOVERED IN CUBA!
Scientists have identified Trichopelma grande, the largest and hairiest tarantula of its kind, in western Cuba.
This ground-dwelling spider boasts feather-duster-like hairy legs—rare for species that live in trap-door burrows… pic.twitter.com/kUXLNenbrX
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) November 19, 2024
A study titled “A hairy giant among dwarves: Trichopelma grande, a distinct new species of tarantula from Cuba (Araneae: Theraphosidae),” published in the Journal of Natural History, highlights this discovery.
Researchers used advanced methods, including genetic analysis and careful study of the spider’s physical traits to confirm and classify this new tarantula species.
Scientists extracted DNA from the tarantula and analyzed it, producing detailed genetic information. This included over 1,300 specific DNA regions used for comparison.
The data was matched against 27 other related spider groups. Analysis showed that the new species is closely related to Trichopelma laselva, a tarantula from Costa Rica. This confirmed its position within the Trichopelma group.
Features of new species of tarantula “Trichopelma grande”
The new tarantula has some striking features. Adult males have legs covered in long, feathery hairs, resembling a feather duster. This trait is often seen in tree-dwelling tarantulas but is highly unusual for those living on the ground.
Despite its tree-like appearance, Trichopelma grande was found living in burrows with trap doors on the ground, which matches the typical behavior of its genus.
The uniqueness doesn’t stop there. Its abdomen shows a distinctive pattern with spots and six alternating dark and light stripes. These stripes are divided by a single light line running down the center.
The spider’s body has thick, chestnut-brown hairs along the edges, while the center remains smooth and dark brown. Its head is much larger than that of other tarantulas in its group, leading to an appearance that some might find fascinating, while others may find it intimidating.
The species was found in Viñales National Park, a rich biodiversity area in Western Cuba. Researchers collected only four specimens, all within a 20-kilometer area.
This suggests the spider may have a very limited range. Its rarity and small habitat raise concerns about its conservation and the need to protect its environment.