Scientists discover new species of giant spider in Indonesia

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A giant surprise

Indonesia is home to some of the most diverse and fascinating wildlife in the world, but even seasoned explorers can still be surprised by what they find. That was the case for a team of researchers from the University of Indonesia, who discovered a new species of spider that can grow up to 30 centimeters in leg span.

A hairy hunter

The new spider, named Megarachne javanica, belongs to the family of tarantulas, which are known for their large size and hairy bodies. The spider has a dark brown coloration, with black stripes on its legs and abdomen. It also has a distinctive red patch on its cephalothorax, the front part of its body that contains the eyes and mouthparts.

The spider is a nocturnal hunter, feeding on insects, small rodents, and even birds. It lives in burrows that it digs in the forest floor, and uses silk to line the entrance and create a trapdoor. The spider can sense vibrations from potential prey, and quickly emerge from its hiding place to attack.

A rare discovery

The discovery of the new spider is a remarkable achievement, considering that Indonesia has been extensively explored by biologists for decades. The researchers attribute their success to the use of new technologies, such as drones and infrared cameras, that allowed them to access remote and unexplored areas of the forest.

The new spider is also a valuable addition to the scientific knowledge of Indonesia's biodiversity, which is under threat from deforestation, habitat loss, and climate change. The researchers hope that their finding will raise awareness and appreciation for the country's rich and unique wildlife, and inspire more efforts to conserve and protect it.