Peacock (Gooty) tarantula — UPSC Prelims PYQ 2025

Regarding Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements:

1. It is an omnivorous crustacean.
2. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.
3. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. I only
2. I and III
3. II only
4. II and III

Explanation

Statement I is incorrect

• The Peacock tarantula is a spider, not a crustacean

Statements II and III are correct

• This species is endemic to a small region in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh.
• The Gooty tarantula is an arboreal (tree-dwelling) spider.

Answer: (d) II and III; Difficulty Level: Hard