Why in News? 

Researchers have identified two new species of jumping spiders in the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, naming them Epidelaxia falciformis sp. nov. and Epidelaxia palustris. 

About 

Both species belong to the genus Epidelaxia. This is the first recorded instance of Epidelaxia in India, as it was previously believed to be exclusive to Sri Lanka. 

Physical Characteristics 

• Distinctive Markings 
  • Females have a prominent yellow triangular mark on the prosoma (front part of the body). 
  • Both male and female spiders possess unique copulatory organ features. 
• Male Appearance 
  • E. falciformis males have a brown carapace with a yellow-brown stripe. 
  • E. palustris males display a pale brown band along their bodies. 
• Female Appearance 
  • Similar coloration to males, with white orbital setae (hairs) around their eyes. 
• Size Variations 
  • E. falciformis measures 4.39 mm. 
  • E. palustris males are 4.57 mm, while females are 3.69 mm. 
• Habitat and Adaptation: These spiders are highly adapted to the dense foliage of the Western Ghats, thriving in their natural habitat.