Necropolis spider and parasitic plant among 59 new species found in Glasgow

A spider discovered in the Necropolis and a plant that feeds off fungi are among 59 species newly identified in Glasgow last year.

Glasgow City Council said rare plants and a caddisfly described as “notable” were among the discoveries made across various sites in the city in 2023.

The caddisfly named Hydropsyche contubernalis was found in moth traps at the Botanic Gardens and Hamiltonhill Local Nature Reserve.

A type of spider named Cryptachaea blattea was also found at the Necropolis for only the second time ever in Scotland.

A shiny green beetle named Oedemera lurida

Yellow Bird’s-nest, a parasitic plant classed as rare, was recorded on a railway embankment in Partickhill, the council’s Net Zero Committee was told on Tuesday.

Other new species found in the city included an Orache moth found at the Hamiltonhill Claypits Local Nature Reserve, the only place it has been recorded in Scotland.

A fungi called Haw Goblet was found at the same site by a visiting mycologist, while a shiny green beetle named Oedemera lurida was also recorded.

Councillor Angus Millar, Glasgow’s convener for climate, said: “The discovery of 59 new species in the city and River Clyde catchment area is really exciting and significant news.

“It proves that environmental work being done by the council in the city is assisting nature’s recovery and attract a wider array of insects and other wildlife.

“Planting wildflowers and trees and managing grassland better for pollinators and other insects produces a ripple effect.

“It also benefits the birds and small mammals which feed on them.

“Greening up the city also helps people by reducing the impact of global warming. Trees help reduce air pollution and flooding while also providing shade in hotter summers.

“Being surrounded by nature is good for our physical and mental wellbeing and it is also visually appealing. The sight of spring bulbs beginning to bloom in the city is definitely uplifting after the cold and wet winter!”