International Tarantula Occurrence Database (ITOD): Research-Grade Dataset Curation and Growth Assessment

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  International Tarantula Occurrence Database (ITOD): Research-Grade Dataset Curation and Growth Assessment June 5, 2026 The International Tarantula Occurrence Database (ITOD) continues to develop as a curated repository of research-grade tarantula observations derived from iNaturalist. Rather than generating new occurrence records, the project systematically organizes and refines existing iNaturalist observations into a focused dataset intended to facilitate biodiversity research, ecological analysis, and long-term monitoring of theraphosid spiders. Purpose of the ITOD Project All observations included within ITOD originate from the broader iNaturalist platform. The primary goal of the project is not to create an independent occurrence database, but rather to identify, organize, and curate observations that meet research-quality standards while maintaining a consistent focus on members of the family Theraphosidae. By consolidating these observations into a dedicated project, ITOD ...

A Deep Divergence in the Cold: Yagania, a New Genus of Ghost Spider from Isla de Los Estados, Argentina (Araneae: Anyphaenidae)

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A Deep Divergence in the Cold: Yagania, a New Genus of Ghost Spider from Isla de Los Estados, Argentina (Araneae: Anyphaenidae)

Abstract

(1) Background: Ghost spiders of the family Anyphaenidae are well represented in Tierra del Fuego, although the evergreen forests of this region are notably understudied. (2) Methods: We based our work on a previous phylogenetic analysis of four markers, studied the morphology using microscopy, and characterized the habitat by vegetation and climate. (3) Results: An undescribed species from Isla de los Estados represents a deeply diverging lineage, which we describe here as Yagania chuanisin n. gen. and n. sp. (4) Conclusions: This species is likely associated with cold and rainy evergreen forests found only in specific areas of Tierra del Fuego Archipelago, where further sampling should be focused to better evaluate the species’ geographic range, as well as its conservation status.

Ramírez, M. J., Magalhaes, I. L., Lencinas, M. V., & Martínez Pastur, G. J. (2026). A Deep Divergence in the Cold: Yagania, a New Genus of Ghost Spider from Isla de Los Estados, Argentina (Araneae: Anyphaenidae). Diversity, 18(6), 346. https://doi.org/10.3390/d18060346