Sydney, April 14 -- A team of Australian scientists has discovered 55 new species of wishbone spiders in a major study exploring some of the country's more remote ecosystems, the University of Western Australia said on Monday.
The research focused on the "Aname" genus, a group of spiders known for their shiny bronze, gold, or silver hairs and deep silk-lined burrows.
Wishbone spiders are part of a larger group that includes tarantulas and trapdoor spiders.
Researchers believed there could be up to 300 species, making Aname one of the most diverse spider groups in the world. However, around 60 per cent of Aname species remain undescribed, with many living in remote or arid regions in Australia.
Jeremy Wilson, the lead researcher, spe...