Hidden diversity in plain sight: four new species of Nemesia (Araneae: Mygalomorphae) from the Córdoba Province of Spain

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  Hidden diversity in plain sight: four new species of Nemesia (Araneae: Mygalomorphae) from the Córdoba Province of Spain Abstract A taxonomic revision of the species of Nemesia Audouin, 1826, distributed in the vicinity of Córdoba City, southern Spain, is presented. Four new species are described: Nemesia morana sp. nov. (female), N. kodama sp. nov. (male and female), N. rosae sp. nov. (male and female), and N. tamajoni sp. nov. (male and female). These species are distinguished by distinct morphological characters, including the shape of the spermathecae, palpal bulbs, and spinnerets, as well as by burrow architecture. Fieldwork was conducted across two of the three major habitat types in the region—the humid, forested mountains of Sierra Morena and the croplands and riparian forests of the Guadalquivir Valley—while the third, the “campiña”, which is mainly composed of agricultural landscapes, remains poorly explored. Sampling methods included pitfall trapping and the direct e...

Silent Invaders : Biodiversity at Risk, Social Media findings into Exotic Pet Trade in Tamil Nadu and Invasion Modeling of Iguana iguana (Linnaeus, 1758)

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Silent Invaders : Biodiversity at Risk, Social Media findings into Exotic Pet Trade in Tamil Nadu and Invasion Modeling of Iguana iguana (Linnaeus, 1758)

Abstract

This study investigates the exotic pet trade in Tamil Nadu by analyzing YouTube videos, which revealed the presence of 148 pet species being sold in pet shops. Among these, 12 species were classified as Endangered, 15 as Vulnerable, 3 as Near Threatened, 101 as Least Concern, and 18 as Not Assessed, according to the IUCN Red List. The CITES status of each species was also examined to assess their trade regulations. Additionally, the presence of invasive alien species recorded in the videos and already existing in the wild in India was mapped. Species distribution modelling using MaxEnt was conducted for Iguana iguana globally, evaluating both current and future habitat suitability. Results indicated a high potential for the species to establish itself and reproduce in India, posing a serious ecological threat. A questionnaire survey among pet shop owners disclosed limited awareness of pet trade regulations and breeding practices. Overall, the findings highlight the urgent need for stricter enforcement of pet trade laws, increased public awareness, and proactive measures to prevent potential invasions by exotic species.

Kesavan, Rishi, Anbazhagan Abinesh, Moorthi Saran, Elangovan Vignesh, Arunkumar Shree, Mohammed Shahir, Edward Phillmon Smart, Nizamudheen Moinudheen, Arockianathan Samson, and Sadiq Ali. 2025. “Silent Invaders : Biodiversity at Risk, Social Media Findings into Exotic Pet Trade in Tamil Nadu and Invasion Modeling of Iguana Iguana (Linnaeus, 1758)”. Acta Zoológica Lilloana, September, 633-71. https://doi.org/10.30550/j.azl/2198.