Dictyna calcarata
Banks, 1904
mesh web weaver
Dictyna calcarata is a spider in the Dictynidae, commonly known as mesh web weavers. It was described by Banks in 1904 and is native to North America. The species has been introduced to Hawaii. As a member of Dictynidae, it constructs irregular, mesh-like webs for prey capture.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dictyna calcarata: //ˈdɪktɪnə ˌkælkəˈreɪtə//
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Identification
As a Dictyna , D. calcarata likely possesses the characteristic cribellate silk-producing apparatus and associated calamistrum on the of the fourth leg, features typical of the . Distinguishing D. calcarata from requires examination of genitalic and other subtle structural characters; specific diagnostic features for this species are not detailed in available sources.
Distribution
Native to the United States and Mexico. Introduced to Hawaii.
Behavior
Constructs irregular mesh-like webs, characteristic of the Dictynidae.
Similar Taxa
- Other Dictyna speciesCongeneric share the mesh web building and general body plan; precise identification requires detailed morphological examination, particularly of genitalia.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The specific epithet 'calcarata' refers to a spur or spur-like structure, though the exact morphological basis for this name in D. calcarata is not specified in available sources.