Heart mark

Pronunciation
/hart mahrk/
Category
Anatomy
Singular
Heart mark
Plural
Heart marks

Definition

A distinct, heart-shaped pattern found on the back of certain spiders, particularly within the Theridiidae family.

Etymology

Derived from Old English 'heorte', meaning 'heart', and 'mark', meaning 'a visible sign or pattern'.

Example

The female Steatoda grossa spider often displays a prominent heart mark on its abdomen.

Synonyms

  • Heart-shaped pattern

Related Terms

  • Abdomen
  • Patterns
  • Theridiidae

Usage Notes

The presence and visibility of heart marks can sometimes help in the identification of certain spider species, especially within the Theridiidae family.