Angola Expedition Uncovers Dozens of New Species

Scientists discovered dozens of previously unknown species of insects and spiders during a February expedition to Angola's remote Lisima plateau. The conservation organization Wilderness Project reported that researchers identified eight new dragonfly species, three new grasshopper species and around 60 previously undescribed butterflies and moths.

Among the most notable finds were an armored predatory cricket, a new copperhead caterpillar species alongside its adult butterfly form, and a crowned spider that fluoresces under ultraviolet light.

Researchers also found a new spider species with a distinctive blood-orange coloration that mimics the appearance of a ladybird. The bright coloring deters predators by signaling possible toxicity or an unpleasant taste.

Expedition leader Rob Taylor described the armored crickets as particularly interesting. As a defense mechanism, they can squirt fluid at potential attackers, helping them survive in a challenging environment.

The research was carried out in an area through which the waters feeding four major African rivers flow: the Congo, Okavango, Zambezi and Cuanza. The researchers warn, however, that the plateau's unique ecosystems are threatened by deforestation, bush burning and artisanal diamond mining.

(reuters, max)