India has recorded multiple new jumping spider species in 2025 and 2026, including Mogrus shushka, Mogrus pune, Asemonea dentis, Colyttus nongwar, Spartaeus karigiri, Pilia malenadu, Epidelaxia falciformis, Epidelaxia palustris, Habrocestum benjamin, Habrocestum swaminathan, and Langelurillus udaipurensis. These species belong to the family Salticidae, which is the largest family of spiders and is known for its active hunting behaviour and excellent vision.
Jumping Spiders: Basic Classification
Jumping spiders are arachnids under the order Araneae and the family Salticidae. They are characterised by compact bodies, large anterior median eyes, and the ability to leap on prey using hydraulic pressure in their legs.
Indian Localities Linked To The Discoveries
- Mogrus shushka was found in the arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
- Mogrus pune was identified in urban biodiversity parks in Maharashtra.
- Asemonea dentis and Colyttus nongwar were announced from Meghalaya on 11 December 2025.
- Spartaeus karigiri was named after Karigiri in Devarayanadurga, Karnataka.
- Epidelaxia falciformis and Epidelaxia palustris were recorded from Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary in Kollam, Kerala.
- Habrocestum benjamin and Habrocestum swaminathan were found in the southern Western Ghats of Kerala in March 2026.
- Langelurillus udaipurensis was documented from Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Udaipur, and Mogrus larisae was recorded from Desert National Park, Rajasthan.
Taxonomy And Scientific Publication
The discoveries were published in the European Journal of Taxonomy, a peer-reviewed journal that publishes zoological and botanical taxonomy. The study titled “Discoveries of two new Mogrus species (Araneae: Salticidae) and notable records from India” included the description of Mogrus shushka and Mogrus pune.
Indian Spider Research Context
The Zoological Survey of India is a national scientific organisation under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. It conducts faunal surveys and taxonomic studies across India, including documentation of arachnid diversity in Meghalaya and other states. Salticidae is one of the most species-rich spider families globally, with thousands of described species. India’s records include species from deserts, forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and urban green spaces.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026