Desidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Desidae: //ˈdɛsɪˌdeɪ//

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Summary

Desidae is a family of spiders including intertidal and some inland species, adapted to unique habitats primarily in South America and Australasia. Their ecological role involves predation on small arthropods, with some species such as Metaltella simoni identified as invasive in certain regions.

Physical Characteristics

Members of the Desidae family exhibit adaptations for an intertidal lifestyle, such as the ability to create silk-sealed barnacle shells to maintain air bubbles during high tide.

Identification Tips

Look for spiders that create silk webs in marine or intertidal environments; some species may also inhabit inland areas.

Habitat

Intertidal zones, often found in barnacle shells; also inland habitats for some genera.

Distribution

Mainly found in South America and Australasia, with some species extending to Malaysia and parts of the Southern United States.

Diet

These spiders feed on various small arthropods present in their habitats, particularly those in the intertidal zone.

Life Cycle

Not specifically detailed, but likely involves typical spider life cycles including egg, juvenile, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Details on reproduction are not provided, but likely follows typical arachnid reproductive behaviors.

Ecosystem Role

As predators of small arthropods, they play a role in controlling pest populations in their habitats.

Economic Impact

Specific economic impacts are not detailed, but invasive species like Metaltella simoni may affect local ecosystems and native species.

Evolution

Desidae has undergone taxonomic revisions, notably the merger with Amphinectidae and exclusion of Toxopidae. Paratheuma insulana was reclassified under Dictynidae as per recent studies.

Similar Taxa

• Badumna
• Phryganoporus
• Metaltella

Misconceptions

Some species are often overlooked or miscategorized due to taxonomic changes and their association with marine environments.

Tags

• spiders
• Desidae
• invasive species
• intertidal zone
• ecology