ZSI discovers 2 new spider species in NE

Kolkata: The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has discovered two new spider species and carried out the first comprehensive taxonomic revision of Indian whip scorpions in over a century.The findings, published in the international journal Zootaxa, highlight northeast India's importance asa hotspot for rareand lesser-known species. The ZSI team identified two previously unknown spiders from the genus Psechrus, naming them Psechrus ntu and Psechrus phenshunyu after villages in Nagaland where they were discovered.These arachnids are characterised by elongated bodies and large horizontal sheet webs woven in humid forest habitats. Researchers also recorded Psechrus himalayanus in northeast India for the first time. Scientists observed a rare instance of a male P. himalayanus sharing a web with P. phenshunyu. The study further marks the first major revision of Indian thelyphonids, commonly known as whip scorpions or ‘vinegaroons', since the early 20th century.Unlike true scorpions, whip scorpions are non-venomous and defend themselves by spraying a vinegar-like acid from a whip-shaped tail. ZSI director Dhriti Banerjee said the study reflects the institution's focus on documenting "obscure faunal groups" that remain poorly understood. Senior scientist Dr Souvik Sen said that the research bridges historical taxonomy and modern conservation, while providing a crucial baseline for protecting India's overlooked and cryptic inhabitants.