Newly Discovered Tarantula Spider Relative Can Survive Underwater
Summary
Researchers identified the Mauritian tidal trapdoor spider, a species native to two small islands in Mauritius, and formally described it in April 2026. The spider lives in coastal areas flooded by seawater and uses a material-covered trapdoor to keep its burrow dry.Key Facts
- The species, Idioctis marevallum, was discovered in 2023 and announced by the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust on October 27, 2026.
- It belongs to the Barychelidae family, a group that includes tarantulas.
- Researchers have found the spider only on Ilot Vacoas and Ile aux Fouquets in the Mauritian archipelago.
- Recorded habitat covers 227 square meters on Ilot Vacoas and 686 square meters on Ile aux Fouquets.
- The spiders dig burrows in coastal rock in the intertidal zone, the area between high and low tide.
- Their tube-shaped burrows are about 12 centimeters long, and their trapdoors use rock, sand and algae.
- In a test, seawater poured over a nest for about 20 seconds did not leave water inside the burrow.
- Researchers observed the spiders eating small crustaceans called isopods, as well as crickets and moths.
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