Scientists Identify Unique New Tarantula Species

Researchers found four new types of tarantulas in Arabia and Africa. They named the new group Satyrex. The male tarantulas have very long palps, which are body parts that help in mating.

Dr. Alireza Zamani led the study from the University of Turku. He said these tarantulas look and behave differently from others. They needed a new classification. The name Satyrex comes from the Greek word for “man-beast” and the Latin word for “king.”

The biggest species, Satyrex ferox, has a leg span of about 14 cm. The male palps can reach up to 5 cm. This size is nearly four times the length of its body front. The species name ferox means “fierce.” These spiders are very defensive and can make loud hissing sounds when disturbed.

The other new species are called S. arabicus and S. somalicus, named after their locations. Satyrex longimanus was already known but was reclassified. All species spend much of their time underground in burrows.

How much do you know?

What is the name of the new group of tarantulas discovered?

Theraphosidae

Satyrex

Acanthoscurria

Lycosa

Who led the study on the new tarantula species?

Dr. John Smith

Dr. Alireza Zamani

Dr. Emily Davis

Dr. Ahmed Khan

What is the leg span of the biggest species, Satyrex ferox?

10 cm

12 cm

14 cm

16 cm

What does the species name 'ferox' mean?

gentle

fierce

beautiful

small

Where are S. arabicus and S. somalicus named after?

Their appearance

Their behavior

Their locations

Their predators

How much longer are the male palps compared to the length of the tarantula's body front?

Twice

Three times

Four times

Five times

The new group of tarantulas is named Satyrex.

True False

Satyrex ferox is the smallest species among the new discoveries.

True False

Dr. Alireza Zamani is affiliated with the University of Turku.

True False

The male tarantulas have very short palps.

True False

All the new species of Satyrex spend most of their time above ground.

True False

Satyrex longimanus was reclassified during this study.

True False

The new group of tarantulas is known as Satyrex.

Dr. Alireza Zamani led the study from the University of .

The biggest species, Satyrex ferox, has a leg span of about cm.

The male palps can reach up to cm.

S. arabicus is named after its named location.

All species of Satyrex spend much of their time in burrows.

This question is required