New species of tarantula with blue legs discovered in Thailand

Arachnologists have discovered a new species of tarantula in Phang Nga province in southern Thailand.

They came across a spider with bright blue legs nestled in a web in the hollow of a tree and immediately knew it was a new species.

This new arachnid, now officially known as Chilobrachys natanicharum, was revealed to the world by a study published on Monday, September 18, in the journal ZooKeys.

The male tarantulas, meticulously recorded by the researchers, range in size from approximately 3.83 to 5.56 cm, while their female counterparts measure between 5.68 and 6.75 cm, the study reveals.

New species of tarantula: Chilobrachys natanicharum. Photo: ZooKeys

These captivating creatures have dark gray legs, the upper segments of which are adorned with dark hairs, which fade to a metallic blue and purple hue towards the lower sections.

Their abdomen and spinnerets are covered in a rich shade of dark brown.

A clear difference appears at the level of the shells.

Males have jet-black carapaces, the upper part of their bodies, while females sport a captivating mix of metallic blue and purple hairs, elegantly interspersed across their carapaces.

Their unique patches of bristle-like hairs serve as stridulation organs, allowing them to produce sounds when they rub against surfaces.

This form of communication is often used during crucial phases of mating and territorial displays, the study explains.

Curiously, this new species was only known to experts through the commercial tarantula market, where it was known as "Chilobrachys sp. Electric Blue Tarantula."

It is only now that this remarkable tarantula has been identified in its natural habitat.

A juvenile tarantula inside a web nested in a tree hollow. Photo: ZooKeys.

Researchers believe these tarantulas likely inhabit southern Thailand, with a particular affinity for tranquil mangrove forests, where they make their homes in tree hollows.

This species obtained its nomenclature through a name auction campaign conducted by a Thai company.

It was named in honor of two esteemed executives of the company, Natakorn Changrew and Nichada Changrew.

Amidst Thailand's natural splendor, amidst the whispering mangrove leaves, a small, electric blue creature has emerged, a testament to the endless wonders waiting to be discovered in our world's enchanting ecosystems.