Diguetia mojavea
Gertsch, 1958
Desertshrub Spider
Diguetia mojavea is a of desertshrub spider in the Diguetidae, to the deserts of the American Southwest. First described by Gertsch in 1958, this species constructs distinctive horizontal sheet webs with dome-shaped retreats amid desert vegetation. As a haplogyne spider, it exhibits relatively primitive reproductive compared to more derived arachnids.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Diguetia mojavea: //dəˈɡweɪtiə moʊˈhɑːviə//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Diguetia by geographic range within the Mojave Desert region. The Diguetia is recognizable by its horizontal sheet webs with central tubular retreats positioned vertically above the sheet, accompanied by tangled threads on all sides. Mature individuals range 5-10 mm in body length. Coloration resembles funnelweb weavers (Agelenidae), but the web architecture differs: Diguetia webs are dome-shaped sheets rather than funnel-form structures. Retreats are conical, shrouded in plant debris and prey remains, often the most visible element of the web.
Habitat
Desert environments of the American Southwest, particularly the Mojave Desert. Webs are constructed less than two feet above ground, frequently amid prickly pear cactus (Opuntia spp.) pads. are localized, with multiple webs clustered in favorable sites.
Distribution
United States: Mojave Desert region of California and Nevada. The broader Diguetia ranges from Utah and Colorado to California and Texas, but D. mojavea appears restricted to the Mojave Desert.
Behavior
The spider travels on the underside of the sheet web to attack prey captured in the surrounding tangle of threads. Retreats serve as shelter and may contain camouflaged sacs.
Ecological Role
in desert . Web architecture suggests specialization on intercepting flying or jumping insects in desert shrub .
Similar Taxa
- Diguetia canitiesMost widely distributed Diguetia with three ; distinguished by broader geographic range across western deserts rather than Mojave-specific distribution
- Agelenidae (funnelweb weavers)Similar coloration and pattern, but construct funnel-shaped webs with tubular retreat at one edge rather than central vertical retreat above a dome-shaped sheet
- Labyrinth spidersSuperficial web similarity, but labyrinth spiders lack the distinctive conical debris-shrouded retreats characteristic of Diguetia