Description

Source: East Mojo
Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.
Context
- Gautam Kadam and Rishikesh Tripathi discovered a new spider species, Steriphopus wangala, in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills, named after the Garo community's Wangala Festival. The finding emphasizes the importance of studying ground-dwelling spiders.
Details
Key Points
- Biodiversity and Environment:
- Discovery of new species emphasizes the importance of biodiversity.
- Significance of ground-dwelling spiders in the ecosystem.
- Threats to species due to human activities like Jhum cultivation and road construction.
- Science and Technology in Conservation:
- Role of taxonomy in identifying new species.
- Importance of ecological studies in conservation efforts.
- Cultural Heritage:
- Integration of local cultural festivals in naming new species.
- Importance of preserving cultural heritage alongside natural heritage.
- Geography:
- Location and significance of Meghalaya, particularly the Garo Hills.

Features of the Steriphopus wangala:
- Family:
- Palpimanidae (Palp-Footed Spiders).
- Distinctive Features:
- Reddish-brown colour, powerful and heavily sclerotized first pair of legs.
- Habitat:
- Ground-dwelling, found in human settlements in West Garo Hills, Meghalaya.
- Taxonomy:
- Confirmed as a new species in the Steriphopus genus, now having five species globally, with two in India.
About Wangala Festival:
- Community:
- Celebrated by the Garo community.
- Location:
- Significance:
- Harvest festival honouring Saljong, the Sun God of fertility.
- Ceremonies:
- "Ragula" on the first day, "Kakkat" on the second day.
- Celebrations:
- Colourful costumes, feathered headgears, traditional dances, and music involving drums, gongs, and buffalo horn flutes.
- Cultural Impact:
- Reflects the community's connection to their agricultural roots and natural environment.
Sources:
East Mojo
PRACTICE QUESTION
Q. Consider the following statements regarding Steriphopus wangala:
1.The spider belongs to the Palpimanidae family.
2.It was discovered in the Thar Desert.
3.The species was named after a traditional harvest festival.
Which of the above statement/s is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
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