A distinctive variant of the teyl trapdoor spider, reminiscent of a “gem,” has been rediscovered in Perth after an absence of 30 years. This remarkable finding took place in bushland at the University of Western Australia’s field station in Shenton Park, carried out by researchers from Edith Cowan University and UWA.
The teyl genus, named in honour of the late Professor Barbara York Main, draws from the Noongar language, roughly translating to “shiny stone,” as shared by Dr Leanda Mason, a research fellow at Edith Cowan University. Teyl spiders are recognised for their small stature, glossy appearance, and vibrant colours, primarily orange or yellow.
Notably, these spiders create burrows that have open holes and minimal silk lining, differing from many trapdoor spider species that typically construct closed lids. This distinctive characteristic makes their burrows challenging to identify, even for trained specialists.
The significance of this discovery is amplified by the indication that this particular spider may represent an unknown, yet-to-be formally named species. Mason emphasised that this tiny arachnid is not merely a scientific curiosity but a vital piece of biodiversity.
These long-lived spiders belong to a lineage tracing back to the ancient Gondwanan period and continue to exist in one of the few remnants of native habitats that have been heavily impacted by land clearing and development. The researchers successfully captured a pregnant female for study purposes, with plans to release both the mother and her spiderlings back into their natural habitat later.