The ‘Kans’ – A lost world, within the Western Ghats

The 'Kans' - A lost world, within the Western Ghats

Our team recently described three new species of spiders, from the ‘Kans’ of Central Western Ghats, Shivamogga, Karnataka; specialized niche-ecosystems consisting of evergreen and semi-evergreen vegetation, surrounded by deciduous forest, which results in unique micro-climatic conditions, making them rich pockets of bio-diversity within the Western Ghats, a global bio-diversity hotspot, and UNESCO World Heritage Site. … Read more

Araneophagic behavior in Plexippus petersi

Araneophagic behavior in Plexippus petersi

Jumping spiders are a fascinating group, making up the largest family of spiders in the world. They are as diverse as birds with a range of complex behaviours which have allowed them to successfully adapt to a wide variety of habitats, globally. Their remarkably well developed eyes give them better vision than that of any … Read more

Plexippus Jumping Spider with a Cricket

Plexippus Jumping Spider with a cricket

This female Plexippus cf. petersi jumping spider was in my courtyard preying on a cricket. As I scrammed to get my camera, the spider was trying to find a safe place for its lunch among the crevices away from this flash wielding photographer. I was using Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a Canon EF … Read more