New spider species discovered – Largest in the Middle East

The new species is the largest of its type in the Middle East, but its habitat is endangered. Credit: Photo by Yael Olek, courtesy of the University of Haifa

"The discovery of this new spider illustrates our obligation to preserve the dunes," says Dr. Shanas, who headed the team of scientists.

In the past, the sands stretched across some 7 square kilometres, but due to the rezoning of areas for agriculture and sand quarries, the sands have been reduced to fewer than 3 square kilometres.

During a course of studies that Dr. Shanas's research team has carried out in the region, they discovered this new spider, a member of the Cerbalus genus; it has been given the name Cerbalus aravensis.

Largest in Middle East
The researchers say that this spider's leg-span can reach up to 14 cms which makes it the largest spider of its type in the Middle East. Although not enough is known to enable a full analysis of its biology and population size, the scientists do know that this is a nocturnal spider, mostly active in the hottest months of the year. It has also been discovered that it constructs an underground den which is closed with a "trapdoor" made of sand particles that are glued together to camouflage the den.

The scientists' delight is mixed with apprehension, as, according to Dr. Shanas, the Israel Land Administration intends to renew mining projects in the region in the near future, which will endanger the existence of the newly discovered spider.