Description
Myostola occidentalis is a tarantula species found in western Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Gabon, and possibly neighboring countries. It is the only species currently recognized in the genus Myostola.
Key facts about M. occidentalis:
Adult females can have a body length of up to 6 cm, with males being slightly smaller.
The coloration is typically a uniform dark brown to black, with a slightly lighter brown carapace.
M. occidentalis is a terrestrial species that inhabits tropical rainforests, often hiding in burrows or under debris on the forest floor.
This species is known for its stout, heavy-bodied appearance and its occurrence in the rainforests of western Africa.
The natural history and behavior of this species in the wild are poorly studied, and more research is needed to understand its ecology and conservation status.
The current conservation status of M. occidentalis is unknown, and further research is required to assess any potential threats to its populations in the wild. As with many tarantula species in western Africa, habitat loss and degradation due to deforestation and land-use changes may pose risks to wild populations.