Quck answer
A new species of spider has been discovered in Malaysia and has been named after musician David Bowie. The spider, named Heteropoda davidbowie, has distinctive yellow hair on its legs, which gives it a similar appearance to Bowie’s iconic hairdo from the 1970s. Contrary to some reports, the spider is not from Mars, but is found in a limestone cave in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. The discovery highlights the importance of Malaysia’s biodiversity and the need for further research and conservation efforts in the region.
Wild Animals
The Heteropoda davidbowie spider was named after the colorful fashion choices of David Bowie in the early 70s. It is native to Malaysia and other parts of Southeast Asia. The arachnologist Peter JГ¤ger from Germany’s Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum named the spider in 2008.
The huntsman spider, or Heteropoda, is a tropical genus of spiders that includes the Heteropoda davidbowie. The spider has a red-brown body and legs with bright orange hairs and vibrant red markings on its underside.
David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust phase in the early 70s featured equally vibrant hair. The Spiders From Mars was the backing band for his Ziggy Stardust character. Bowie’s 1987 album “Never Let Me Down” also includes the song “Glass Spider”.
The female Heteropoda davidbowie spider can range in color from gray to red-brown and grow up to 1 inch (2.53 centimeters) long. They are typically found on tree bark and leaves in the highlands of Malaysia, as well as in Singapore and on the Indonesian island of Sumatra.
For more information on the David Bowie spider and its relatives, watch the video below while listening to your favorite Bowie album.
Now That’s Interesting
David Bowie’s unique eyes were not due to heterochromia, a genetic condition that causes irises of different colors. Instead, he was involved in a teenage fight which resulted in a scratched eyeball, paralysis of the muscle that contracts the iris, and a condition known as anisocoria, where a person’s pupils are different sizes.
FAQ
1. What is the name of the spider named after David Bowie?
The spider is named Heteropoda davidbowie, in honor of the late musician David Bowie.
2. Where was the spider discovered?
The spider was discovered in Malaysia, not on Mars as some media outlets have mistakenly reported.
3. What makes Heteropoda davidbowie unique?
Heteropoda davidbowie is a huntsman spider that is known for its striking appearance. It has a yellowish-brown body with patches of white hair and a distinct dark band across its chest that resembles a bowtie.
4. How big is Heteropoda davidbowie?
Adult Heteropoda davidbowie spiders can have a leg span of up to 8 inches, making them one of the largest species of huntsman spiders in the world.
5. What is the habitat of Heteropoda davidbowie?
Heteropoda davidbowie spiders are found in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Thailand. They are commonly found on tree trunks and leaves.
6. Are Heteropoda davidbowie spiders dangerous?
No, Heteropoda davidbowie spiders are not considered dangerous to humans. They are shy and prefer to run away from potential threats rather than attack.
7. How was the spider named after David Bowie?
The spider was named after David Bowie by German arachnologist Peter JГ¤ger. JГ¤ger is a fan of Bowie’s music and wanted to honor his legacy by naming a new species after him.
8. What other animals have been named after celebrities?
Other animals that have been named after celebrities include a species of beetle named after Leonardo DiCaprio and a species of dinosaur named after Mick Jagger.
9. How can I see a Heteropoda davidbowie spider in person?
If you want to see a Heteropoda davidbowie spider in person, you may be able to find them in zoos or insectariums that specialize in arachnids. However, they are not commonly kept as pets due to their large size.
10. What is the significance of naming a new species after a celebrity?
Naming a new species after a celebrity can draw attention to the species and help raise awareness about conservation efforts. It can also be a way to honor the celebrity and their contributions to society.
Leave a Reply