Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Species of Bark Spider Discovered by PangolinConservation.org
St. Augustine, FL USA
August 19, 2016
A new species of Bark Spider (Caerostris sp.) discovered by PangolinConservation.org during a survey for tree pangolin habitat in Western Togo.
While conducting a survey for tree pangolin habitat in western Togo, Justin Miller, director of Pangolin Conservation, came across a very unique spider. After posting photos of the spider on social media, Miller came to find out this it appears to be a new species of Bark Spider (Caerostris sp.).
A new species of Bark Spider (Caerostris sp.) discovered by PangolinConservation.org during a survey for tree pangolin habitat in Western Togo.
These type of spiders are well known for their extremely strong silk, potentially large webs and odd characteristics.
Confirmation of a new orb-weaving spider species will be made by after being deposited in a natural history museum. “Who knows, if the species is scientifically described in the future maybe they’ll name it after a pangolin.”, Miller says. “I can always hope the exposure of one animal can get the word out about another.”
This discovery demonstrates the interconnectedness between habitat conservation and species conservation. By attempting to protect this habitat for the world’s most illegally trafficked animal (the pangolin) we are also able to protect it for other very fascinating animals and plants.
“While it’s one of the most densely populated countries in Africa, the continued discovery of new and exciting animals in Togo details how much work we need to do to understand and protect the biology of this region. Recently, a new species of duiker and gecko has been discovered. Even species once thought lost, such as the critically endangered frog, Conraua derooi, have been found as a result of Pangolin Conservation’s work with pangolins.”, says Miller.
Pangolin Conservation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded to promote the conservation, education, and research of pangolin species.
ENDS
Contact: Media@PangolinConservation.org