Wadotes hybridus

(Emerton, 1890)

hacklemesh weaver

Wadotes hybridus is a of funnel weaver spider in the Agelenidae, found in the United States and Canada. It is among the larger spiders in its family, reaching up to 14 mm in body length at maturity. The species has been documented as prey for the spider wasp Priocnemis minorata. Taxonomic placement has shifted historically, with the Wadotes formerly classified in Amaurobiidae before returning to Agelenidae.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Wadotes hybridus: /wəˈdoʊtɛs hɪˈbraɪdəs/

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Identification

Large size for a funnel weaver, reaching approximately 14 mm body length at maturity. Robust build with heavy legs and notably large (jaws). Distinguished from similar by its substantial size and powerful compared to smaller Agelenidae.

Distribution

United States and Canada.

Seasonality

observed in summer and fall.

Host Associations

Similar Taxa

  • Coras medicinalisBoth build funnel-like webs with multiple retreats; Coras webs are generally smaller and the spiders themselves are smaller (8-13 mm females, 8-10 mm males) compared to W. hybridus
  • Other Wadotes species-level identification requires examination of genitalia; W. hybridus distinguished by specific and structures

More Details

Taxonomic history

The Wadotes was moved from Agelenidae to Amaurobiidae in 1986 by Joerg Wunderlich, then returned to Agelenidae. Unlike typical Amaurobiidae, Wadotes lacks the cribellum, a plate-like silk-spinning organ.

Etymology

The specific epithet 'hybridus' refers to intermediate or mixed characteristics, though the precise reference in Emerton's original description is not detailed in available sources.

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Sources and further reading