Muscat – Scientists have recorded a new species of tarantula, Satyrex ferox, in Dhofar. The species was described earlier this year as being part of the newly established Satyrex genus, which includes four other species from the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. Satyrex ferox is the first tarantula of its genus recorded in […]
Muscat – Scientists have recorded a new species of tarantula, Satyrex ferox, in Dhofar. The species was described earlier this year as being part of the newly established Satyrex genus, which includes four other species from the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa.
Satyrex ferox is the first tarantula of its genus recorded in southern Dhofar, a region known for its fog-fed oases and semi-arid habitats. The species name ferox, meaning ‘fierce’, reflects its aggressive behaviour, which includes a raised threat posture and audible hissing when disturbed.
The genus name Satyrex combines Satyr from Greek mythology and rex, Latin for king, referring to the spider’s uniquely long male palps – the mating organs – which are the longest recorded among all tarantulas. Scientists believe these extended palps allow males to keep a safe distance from aggressive females during mating, reducing the risk of cannibalism.
Field studies show Satyrex ferox live in burrows and silk-lined tunnels at the base of shrubs or under rocks. Like other theraphosids, it is a nocturnal predator of insects and other small arthropods and plays an important role in the local ecosystem.
Researchers also documented the species’ natural predator in Dhofar – the tarantula hawk wasp (Hemipepsis heros), which paralyses large spiders to feed its larvae. This predator-prey relationship adds to the understanding of Dhofar’s food webs and biodiversity.
The study in identifying the tarantula included scientists from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources and the University of Nizwa. Ahmed al Busaidi, wildlife specialist at the Natural and Medical Sciences Research Centre, University of Nizwa, said the discovery highlights Dhofar’s importance as a biodiversity hotspot. “This new finding contributes to our understanding of the distribution of rare species in the region and opens new avenues for future research,” he said.
(With inputs from Asma al Balushi)
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