It is a discovery that thrills as much as it amazes: a giant tarantula, impressive by its dimensions and its unusual hairiness, was discovered in the Viñales National Park, in the west of Cuba. Baptized Large Trichopelmathis terrestrial spider, identified by David Ortiz (Masaryk University, Czechia) and Elier Fonseca (Zoological Society of Cuba), is the largest and hairiest ever observed in its genus.
As the scientists explain in their study published in the Journal of Natural History, this species raises new questions about the evolution and conservation of island ecosystems.
A 6 centimeter hairy giantess in a natural paradise
Spiders of the genus Trichopelma are already known for their diversity in the Caribbean, but Large Trichopelma breaks all standards. With a body reaching 6 centimeters in length, this tarantula impresses with its extraordinary dimensions and its legs densely covered with long hairs, which give it the appearance of a living feather duster.
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However, this characteristic is generally observed in arboreal species, where the hairs are used to cling or to camouflage themselves in trees. In a strictly terrestrial species like Large Trichopelmawhich lives in burrows hidden by trapdoors, this density of hairs remains enigmatic and arouses the interest of specialists.
Discovered in a limited area of twenty kilometers around the Viñales National Park, this species is also distinguished by its abdomen decorated with complex patterns: dark and light transverse bands alternate, crossed by a lighter central line. Its particularly large head completes this picture.
The Greater Antilles, of which Cuba is a part, are a true natural laboratory of biodiversity. Separated for millions of years, these islands favor the emergence of unique species, adapted to very specific local conditions. Large Trichopelma is new proof, confirming the key role of this region in the study of evolution.
DNA analyzes for rigorous classification
To identify this new species, the researchers used an approach combining morphological observations and advanced genomic analyses. In their study, they sequenced 1,348 ultraconserved (UCE) loci, comparing the DNA of Large Trichopelma with that of 27 other genera of tarantulas.
The results show that this spider is close to Trichopelma laselvaan arboreal species from Costa Rica, but its physical and behavioral characteristics justify its status as a distinct species. Unlike her cousin, Large Trichopelma is strictly terrestrial and relies on its long hairs to protect itself and intimidate predators.
A rare and vulnerable species
The discovery of Large Trichopelma is also a warning signal for conservation. The four captured specimens were found in a restricted area, suggesting a limited geographic distribution. This fragility is aggravated by the threats weighing on its habitat: deforestation, intensive agriculture and climate change.
The Viñales National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an essential refuge area for this species. However, its dependence on a specific ecosystem makes it a potential target for environmental pressures. Researchers are calling for intensified studies on its biology and distribution to better assess the risks and consider appropriate protective measures.
