Context:

Recently, a new spider species Pilia malenadu was discovered in Madhugundi village, Mudigere taluk, Chikkamagaluru district, located in the foothills of the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India.

About Pilia Malenadu:

·        Genus: The species belongs to the Pilia genus of jumping spiders (family Salticidae).

·        Naming: The species was named "Pilia malenadu" to honor the "Malenadu" region (meaning "land of hills"), where it was found.

·        Habitat: The spiders were found exclusively on two specific plant species: Memecylon umbellatum and Memecylon malabaricum, suggesting a strong microhabitat preference.

·        Specimens: Researchers identified both male and female specimens of the genus for the first time, providing crucial morphological data that was previously unavailable.

Significance of discovery:

This discovery is particularly notable because it is the first recorded sighting of the Pilia genus in over 120 years, with the last one identified in Kerala in 1902.

·        It helps scientists understand the anatomy and classification of the Pilia genus.

·        Found in the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, showing the region still has many undiscovered species.

About Malenadu Region:

The spider’s name, Pilia malenadu, is derived from the Malenadu (or Malnad) region of Karnataka, which literally means “land of rain” in Kannada (“male” = rain, “nadu” = land). This region is part of the Western Ghats and is characterized by:

1.       High Rainfall: Receives heavy monsoon precipitation, contributing to lush forests and perennial rivers.

2.      Dense Forest Cover: Includes tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests that are rich in endemic flora and fauna.

3.      Unique Microhabitats: Provides specialized ecological niches for understory plants like Memecylon umbellatum and Memecylon malabaricum, where Pilia malenadu was discovered.

4.     Biodiversity Hotspot: Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Western Ghats, supporting numerous endemic and rare species of plants, amphibians, reptiles, and insects.

Conclusion:

The discovery of Pilia malenadu demonstrates that India’s biodiversity still holds many secrets, especially in regions like the Western Ghats. Protecting these ecosystems ensures the survival of such rare and endemic species, contributing to both ecological balance and scientific knowledge.