Another ghost of Gondwana—Progradungula barringtonensis Michalik & Smith, sp. nov., a new species of the relict spider genus Progradungula (Araneae: Gradungulidae) from a temperate rainforest in eastern Australia

Researchers have discovered a new species of relict spider, Progradungula barringtonensis, from the temperate rainforests of Barrington Tops National Park in eastern Australia. This finding expands the known diversity of the genus Progradungula, which includes only two other species, both considered 'living fossils.' The newly described species exhibits unique characteristics in its male genitalia and web structure, showing plasticity that may be influenced by food availability. The study combines morphological analysis with field observations to shed light on the evolutionary history and ecological adaptations of these rare spiders, contributing to our understanding of Gondwana's ancient biodiversity.

Michalik, P., Smith, H. M., Milledge, G., & Harms, D. (2024). Another ghost of Gondwana—Progradungula barringtonensis Michalik & Smith, sp. nov., a new species of the relict spider genus Progradungula (Araneae: Gradungulidae) from a temperate rainforest in eastern Australia. Austral Entomology, 63(1), 72–81. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aen.12675