Meet the Spider Identifications Team

Welcome to SpiderIdentifications.com, your definitive resource for unraveling the intricacies of the spider world. Not only are we well-versed in the realm of arachnology, but our experts also possess extensive knowledge in general animal studies. Boasting a global team of editors, each member contributes a wealth of expertise and years of experience. We pride ourselves on the depth of knowledge and passion that drives our team. Allow us to introduce the exceptional minds working diligently behind the scenes.


Dr Richard J. Pearce (PhD)

Dr Richard J. Pearce

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Dr Richard J. Pearce is Associate Professor Animal Ecology and Biodiversity Research (WCUC) An expert in biodiversity and ecosystems ecology, specialising in the ecology and behaviour of spiders. Richard is passionate about arachnids and has a background in ecology and conservation. He has served on the Council of the British Arachnological Society and the IUCN Species Survival Commission as a member of the Spider and Scorpion Specialist Group. Richard frequently collaborates in international projects broadening knowledge of biodiversity and human impact. He enjoys active membership across a wide range of international professional organisations in natural history, ecology and wildlife conservation. Richard’s research focuses on the interface between human activity and natural ecosystems, frequently exploring the role of spiders as indicators of ecosystem health. Awards and Accreditations: PhD Ecosystems Ecology; MSc Environmental Diagnostics; BSc (Hons) Environmental Science; Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)

Experience

  • Associate Professor (Animal Ecology & Biodiversity Research) – Present
  • Lecturer in Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology – 2012-2019
  • Bioscience Lecturer 2001-2012

Education

  • Cranfield University Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – 1998-2001
  • Cranfield University Master’s DegreeEnvironmental Diagnostics -1997-1998
  • University of Warwick Bachelor’s DegreeEnvironmental Science – 1993-1997

Organizations

  • IUCN Species Survival Comission (Spider & Scorpion Specialist Group) Red List Assessor (Spiders, Scorpions & other Arachnida) Apr 2018 – Present
  • American Arachnological Society Member Sep 2017 – Present
  • British Arachnological Society Council Sep 2014 – Present
  • African Arachnological Society (AFRAS) Member
  • European Society of Arachnology Member

Read Dr. Richard J. Pearce Full Bio – Click Here


Dr. James Watuwa (MSc. WHM ,BVM)

Dr. Watuwa James

Dr. Watuwa James (MSc. WHM ,BVM)

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Dr. James Watuwa boasts a notable six-year track record in the care and management of diverse species, especially Wild Animels, spiders, tarantulas and more. He has demonstrated extensive proficiency in clinical practices, breeding, and nutrition. His dedication to animal welfare stands out, ensuring their well-being.

Holding a Bachelor’s degree and a range of certificates in conservation and related fields, Dr. Watuwa has lent his expertise to esteemed organizations. These include the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), the USA’s White Oak Conservation Area, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Expertise

  1. Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Impact Assessment from Nkumba University, Uganda (April 2021 – March 2022)
  2. Certificate in Scientific Writing, Research, and Publishing from the Tropical Biology Association, Kenya (November 2022 – December 2022)
  3. MSc in Wildlife Health and Management (MSc. WHM) (July 2018 – July 2022)
  4. Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (BVM) (July 2012 – July 2017)

Experience

  1. Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC-Zoo), Entebbe, Uganda
    Position: Current Role since May 2019
  2. White Oak Conservation Area, Florida, USA
    Position: Trainee Veterinarian, May 2022 – June 2022
  3. Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) & Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
    Position: Support Veterinarian, January 2020 – December 2020
  4. Endangered Wildlife Conservation Organisation (EWCO), Kampala, Uganda
    Roles:
    — Herp Mapper, January 2019 – January 2020
    — Chief Executive Officer, January 2017 – February 2019
  5. Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH), Kampala, Uganda
    Position: Wildlife Veterinarian, February 2017 – February 2019
  6. Bwindi-Sarambwe Mountain Gorilla Census
    Position: Team Leader, March 2018 – November 2018
  7. Uganda Small Animal Practitioners Association
    Position: Intern Trainee, December 2016 – May 2017

Read Dr. Watuwa James‘ Full Bio – Click Here


Roy Williams (USA)

Roy Williams’ fascination with spiders took root amidst the dense woods of the American Midwest. In 2008, he embarked on an academic journey at the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) and, over the subsequent four years, honed his skills in arachnology. Graduating in 2012 with a focus on spider research, Roy has since dedicated over a decade to hands-on experience in the field. His expeditions have taken him from the muggy swamps of Florida to the towering mountain ranges of Colorado. With meticulous research and a growing number of published works, Roy has significantly enriched our understanding of spider behavior and ecology. A passionate arachnologist, Roy’s journey continues as he seeks to unravel the intricate web of spider life.

Roy Williams

Contact: roy@spideridentifications.com


Mumpi Ghosh (India)

Mumpi Ghosh, originating from the diverse landscapes of India, has held a deep-rooted fascination for spiders since his childhood days. In 2009, driven by his passion, Mumpi embarked on his academic journey in arachnology at the esteemed Banaras Hindu University (BHU). After completing his studies in 2013, he set out with a robust foundation to explore the spider diversity of his homeland. Over the ensuing years, Mumpi’s dedication has seen him traverse vast terrains – from the lush forests of the Western Ghats in 2014 to the arid deserts of Rajasthan in 2016. Throughout these explorations, he has meticulously photographed and documented hundreds of unique spider species, contributing immensely to the scientific community with his unparalleled insights and expertise.

Mumpi Ghosh

Contact: mumpi@spideridentifications.com


Our Mission

At SpiderIdentifications.com, we pride ourselves on our global reach and expertise. Our editors travel, research, and photograph spiders from various corners of the world, ensuring you receive accurate and comprehensive information. With dedication and experience spanning continents, you can trust our team to provide you with the most authentic and reliable spider identifications.

Here at SpiderIdentifications.com you will find separate profiles for different spiders with short to-the-point information, facts about how you can identify them yourself, with picture galleries. Also learn about what spiders bite, and how poisonous the bites can be. You can also upload pictures of spiders you need to identify.

Important Note for Visitors:

We want you to know that every post on SpiderIdentifications.com is diligently checked and verified by our dedicated team of experts. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean that each post has been reviewed by every one of our authors. Rest assured, our collective expertise ensures the accuracy and reliability of the information you find on our website. Thank you for trusting us as your source for spider identifications and insights.

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