Newly discovered spider has happy face on its back
Researchers have discovered a new species of spider in the Himalayas that resembles the famous Hawaiian happy-face spider. Named Theridion himalayana, this spider showcases a variety of smiley patterns on its abdomen. The discovery highlights the biodiversity of the Himalayan region and raises questions about the evolutionary relationship between the two species.
- ▪The Himalayan happy-face spider was discovered during a biodiversity survey in Uttarakhand, India.
- ▪This new species shows about 8.5 percent genetic variation from the Hawaiian happy-face spider.
- ▪Both spider species have a preference for ginger plants, despite ginger not being native to Hawaii.
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Both species appear to have a preference for ginger plants. Credit: Devi Priyadarshini and Ashirwad Tripathy Get the Popular Science daily newsletter💡 Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent six days a week. Email address Sign up Thank you! Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. The happy-face spider (Theridion grallator) is famous for the particularly cheery looking patterns on top of its abdomen. Ecologists in Hawaii first described the tiny, vibrantly green arachnids in 1900, and have long assumed them to be unique to the islands. However, an unexpected encounter thousands of miles away recently surprised researchers combing through the forested slopes of the Himalayan mountains.
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