SYDENY: Peacock spiders are popular for their bright colors and intricate dances, and two new species received quirky names to match.
A recent report introduced “Sparklemuffin” and “Skeletorus” to the world. The two species, which both belong to the maratus genus, were discovered at Wondul Range National Park in Queensland, Australia, according to the report published in the journal Peckhamia.
“Despite the large number of species we have discovered just in the last few years, I can’t help feeling that we may have just scratched the surface of this most exciting group of spiders and that nature has quite a few more surprises in store,” co-author Jürgen Otto told Live Science.
Skeletorus, which also has the more scientific name of Maratus sceletus, is most unique for its mostly black and white “skeleton-like pattern,” according to the report. Otto wrote that it is also the only Maratus species he has seen so far with a “nose.”
Researchers said Sparklemuffin, also known as Maratus jactatus, has a distinctly “soft appearance.” Live Science reported that the spider got its nickname from a graduate student, Madeline Girard, who first found the spider.
Tesla driverless system to use updated radar technology
WASHINGTON: Electric carmaker Tesla announced Sunday it was upgrading its Autopilot software to use more advanced radar technology. In a...
