KSAT: Researchers discover new species at Natural Bridge Caverns

An educational exhibit showcasing researchers’ findings is scheduled to open in 2023

Emily Ramirez, Digital Producer trainee

A biological inventory of Natural Bridge Caverns conducted by Zara Environmental that began earlier this year revealed a number of new species.

Researchers found Chinquipellobunus madlae, an orange cave-adapted, spider-looking creature, according to Natural Bridge Caverns. Hundreds of different types of snails were collected and sent to Dr. Kathryn Perez, an aquatic snails expert at UT Rio Grande Valley.