Terra Natura Benidorm has expanded its collection of venomous creatures with the arrival of a Cyclocosmia latisicosta, one of the world’s most unusual and fascinating spiders thanks to the extraordinary defence strategy it has evolved to protect itself from predators. This latest addition coincides with the arrival of two Anderson’s axolotls (Ambystoma andersoni), a critically endangered amphibian species, further strengthening the park’s ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation, education and public awareness.

The Cyclocosmia latisicosta is instantly recognisable for having one of the most extraordinary abdomens in the animal kingdom. Completely flat, rigid and perfectly circular, its distinctive markings resemble an ancient coin, a shield or even a biscuit. Far from being merely decorative, this remarkable structure is a highly specialised evolutionary adaptation that plays a vital role in the spider’s survival.

When threatened, the spider retreats rapidly into its burrow and uses its uniquely shaped abdomen to seal the entrance completely, creating an effective living door. This ingenious defence makes it extremely difficult for predators to remove the spider from its refuge, making it one of the most remarkable defensive strategies known among spiders.

The individual, which is housed alone due to its strongly territorial nature, can be seen in one of the specially designed exhibition domes where the park’s animal care team has carefully recreated the conditions of its natural habitat. Spotting it will be something of a challenge for visitors, but its exceptional camouflage is all part of what makes this species so captivating.

This latest addition also enhances the park’s venomous creatures exhibit, which aims to introduce visitors to lesser-known species while highlighting the important roles they play within their ecosystems. Through this educational display, Terra Natura Benidorm also seeks to dispel many of the myths and misconceptions traditionally associated with these often misunderstood animals.

Growing Population of Anderson’s Axolotls

The arrival of the Cyclocosmia latisicosta coincides with the addition of two Anderson’s axolotls (Ambystoma andersoni), a critically endangered amphibian found only in Mexico. Terra Natura Benidorm was already home to one individual and, with these new arrivals, has expanded its population under human care of this remarkable species.

The addition of these animals further strengthens the park’s contribution to conservation initiatives focused on a species whose survival is under serious threat due to the ongoing degradation of its natural habitat. Anderson’s axolotls are particularly sensitive to water quality, and rising water temperatures linked to climate change represent one of the greatest challenges to their long-term survival. At the same time, their presence at the park provides an important opportunity to raise awareness among visitors of the need to protect one of the world’s most unique amphibians.