‘Rare jewel of Eastern Ghats’: Why Pawan Kalyan is championing the survival of endangered Peacock Tarantula

A rare jewel of the Eastern Ghats is finally getting the attention it deserves.

Under the able leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri @ncbn garu and the strong direction of Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Shri @PawanKalyan garu, The Andhra Pradesh Forest… pic.twitter.com/EUgli42Gac

— Deputy CMO, Andhra Pradesh (@APDeputyCMO) April 29, 2026

Found predominantly in the deciduous forests of central and southern India, this spider species has a distinct blue hue, one that darkens with age and maturity. The first specimen of this spider was sent to the British Museum in 1898 by H.R.P. Carter, who received it from the chief engineer, H.C. West, of the Madras Railway. The spider’s bite is considered medically significant, and its venom can cause intense pain.

Why is its conservation essential?

Indrajeet Ghorpade, conservationist and founder of Deccan Conservation Foundation, shares that the Peacock Tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica) plays a vital role, similar to most species of tarantula, in its ecosystem as a predator that helps maintain the balance of insect populations.

“The tarantula preys upon a variety of insects, including crickets, grasshoppers, and other small bugs. This natural predation helps regulate insect numbers, preventing potential outbreaks and ensuring that no single insect species overwhelms the ecosystem,” he tells indianexpress.com.

Maintaining a healthy ecological balance and vibrant ecosystem is key to the survival of arachnids. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

By keeping insect populations in check, the Peacock Tarantula contributes to the overall health and stability of its environment, promoting biodiversity and supporting the intricate web of interactions that characterize its ecosystem, points out Ghorpade

The species is currently critically endangered, fighting against “habitat loss, degradation and rampant, illegal pet trade for exotic species”.

According to the expert, maintaining a healthy ecological balance and vibrant ecosystem is key to the survival of arachnids. “Unfortunately, we are a ‘tiger-centric’ country that has neglected hundreds of rare, endangered, or threatened species. But it is important to note that each of these species depends on a specific habitat, diet, and climate that has helped it survive for millions of years. “Understanding and adopting this mantra is key to the survival of the planet,” he says.

Losing one species has a negative effect on hundreds of other species that are interdependent on each other. “Preserve habitats, protect life,” he echoes in conclusion.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to.