Entomologists (the field of biology that studies insects) discovered a new species of tarantula found in the southern part of the country. The spider, known as Chilobrachys natanicharum, has a “bluepurple hue that resembles the color of electrical sparks,” researchers from the Khon Kaen University Museum of Entomology and the National Science Museum’s Natural History Museum said in a statement. Article announcing the discovery. They called the tarantula’s rare color a “charming phenomenon.” The study was originally published by the journal ZooKeys.
“Blue coloration in animals is a fascinating and relatively rare phenomenon in nature,” the researchers said. “The color blue in tarantulas is a unique example of structural colors that have evolved independently at least eight times.”
The researchers explain in the study that blue is one of the rarest colors found in nature. In the new spiders, the coloration is created “by the arrangement of biological photonic nanostructures and not by pigments.” The coloring is the result of “your hair’s unique structure, which contains nanostructures that manipulate light to create that shade.”
Narin Chomphuphuang Strong purples and metallic blues are more noticeable on certain parts of the body
The name of the new species was chosen at a national auction. The auction money was donated to help Lahu children and poor cancer patients. “The Lahu people are an indigenous group from the northern hills of Thailand (Musoe) and are known for their vibrant culture and traditional way of life,” explain the researchers. “Unfortunately, many Lahu children do not have access to education due to poverty, leaving them limited options for their future.”
Photos show that the spider has bluepurple hairs on its legs and body. The coloration of the legs was “unique” and “iridescent,” the researchers said. Female spiders and young males of this species have “more purple hairs than metallic blue,” while in male spiders the bright blue color is more prominent.
The researchers said the spider appeared to live in the mangrove forests of southern Thailand. Arachnids live in tree hollows. Spiders can also live in forests.
However, habitat destruction and tarantula hunting have affected the species. All of Thailand’s tarantulas are considered managed wildlife in the country, and researchers emphasize the need to conserve and protect the species and their habitats.