Researchers reveal new tarantula species found in Africa
Local researchers are detailing the discovery of a new species of tarantula, that was found in central Angola.
Conservationists have named the species Ceratogyrus attonitifer which means 'astonishment' or 'fascination' and 'bearer of' or 'carrier'.
Eight female spiders were collected between 2015 and 2016 as part of the National Geographic Wilderness Project - an ongoing conservation programme that covers the Okavanga - the ecosystem in parts of Angola, Namibia and Botswana.
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Entomologists - Dr. John Midgley, whose the assistant director of natural science at the KwaZulu-Natal Museum, and Dr. Ian Engelbrecht from the South African Biodiversity Institute - say the arachnid has been categorised among the horned baboon spiders that are commonly found in southern Africa.
A horn-like feature protrudes from the top of its head, the research says.
Findings reveal the tarantula feeds on insects and its venom is said to not be a danger to humans.
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