The south west of Western Australia is known for its rich biodiversity, but there are currently no protections in place for newly discovered species in the region. This lack of protection puts at risk the many unique species that have yet to be discovered and named. One such species, the maratus yanchep, is facing potential extinction due to the planned development of an 80-hectare housing estate in the area. Wildlife photographers Nick Volpe and Lucyna Kania, along with their friend Reef Coakley, were the ones who discovered this unusual spider.
The photographers, as well as other advocates for wildlife conservation, are calling out the state government and property developers for not taking measures to protect the maratus yanchep and its habitat. The discovery of this spider after the approval of the housing estate highlights the failure to prioritize the protection of fragile and unique wildlife in the region. Nick Volpe expressed concern about the lack of funding for the study of invertebrates in Australia, making it difficult to understand the habitat requirements and vulnerability of newly discovered species.
Despite efforts by individuals like photographer Michael Lun, who captured unique images of the male maratus yanchep performing its courtship dance, the government and developers have shown little interest in conserving this species. The minister’s refusal to even consider protecting the spider raises concerns about the potential ecological consequences of its extinction. As coastal habitats in Perth have already been cleared for development, the loss of invertebrate species to extinction is not a new phenomenon, and the maratus yanchep could face a similar fate if action is not taken.
The lack of protection for newly discovered species like the maratus yanchep reflects a broader issue of biodiversity conservation in Western Australia and beyond. The failure to prioritize the conservation of unique and vulnerable species jeopardizes the balance of ecosystems in the region. Advocates for wildlife conservation are calling for stronger protections and funding for the study of invertebrates to better understand and preserve these important species. The discovery of the maratus yanchep serves as a reminder of the urgent need for action to protect biodiversity in the south west of Western Australia and beyond.
