Biologists have identified a new tarantula species in the Madrean Sky Island biodiversity hotspot located in southeastern Arizona. This significant species is native to the Chiricahua Mountains and mainly thrives in forests situated at mid to high elevations, which face increasing threats from climate change.
Researchers have discovered Aphonopelma jacobii, a new species of tarantula in the Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona. This small tarantula, characterized by its black and grey appearance complemented by vivid red hairs on its abdomen, lives in the higher altitude environments of the Chiricahua Mountains, enduring harsh winter conditions.
The finding was quite surprising. “We frequently hear about new species emerging from far-flung regions of the world, but it’s extraordinary to find these spiders in our own vicinity, even if they are situated in areas that’s not easily accessible,” stated Dr. Chris Hamilton, an assistant professor at the University of Idaho and one of the lead authors of a study published in ZooKeys concerning this spider. “Amidst a human-driven extinction crisis, it’s shocking how little we understand about Earth’s biodiversity, even among well-known and appealing groups like tarantulas.”
The Chiricahua Mountains are famous for their rich biodiversity and high levels of species unique to the area. They form a part of the Madrean Archipelago (often called the Madrean Sky Islands), a network of forested mountain ranges that connect the Colorado Plateau and the Rocky Mountains in the southwestern U.S. with the Sierra Madre Occidental in northwestern Mexico. These “islands” of montane forests, isolated by low-elevation deserts and dry grasslands, have developed unique ecosystems, giving rise to many endemic species, resulting in a rich variety of life unparalleled elsewhere in the country.
The forests that are home to these tarantulas face various threats, particularly from climate change. Recent research in the sky island area indicates that these forests might be “pushed off” the mountains in the coming decades due to rising temperatures and decreasing precipitation. Species like these spiders, which are adapted to cooler and more humid mountainous environments, may face extinction as their habitats vanish.
Dr. Brent Hendrixson, a professor at Millsaps College and co-lead author of the study, adds, “These delicate habitats are under threat from increasing suburban development in the San Simon Valley and Portal regions, harmful recreational activities, and wildfires. There is also significant concern that these rare tarantulas could be targeted for the exotic pet trade because of their striking appearance and gentle nature. It’s important to consider the potential damage unethical collectors might inflict on these spiders when assessing the threats to this species and its conservation needs.”
Aphonopelma jacobii is named in honor of Michael A. Jacobi, who assisted in locating some of the initial specimens that contributed to this species’ identification.
“This marks the 30th documented species of tarantula in the United States. The genus Aphonopelma is recognized as the most diverse genus of tarantula globally (at least among documented species). Our findings expand this total and enhance our understanding of the true species diversity in this incredibly fascinating and vital biodiversity hotspot,” concludes Dr. Hamilton.
