Drassodes auriculoides

Distinguished from other Drassodes species by the structure of the male pedipalps, specifically the ear-like (auriculate) forms of the embolus or conductor that give the species its name. Females may be identified by epigynal morphology. General Drassodes characteristics include an elongated cylindrical abdomen, posteriorly positioned spinnerets, and a carapace with a distinct fovea. Accurate identification requires examination of genitalia under magnification.

Ground-dwelling; occupies terrestrial habitats including leaf litter, soil crevices, and under stones or debris. Specific microhabitat preferences for this species are undocumented.

United States; recorded from North America. Precise state-level distribution records are sparse.

Nocturnal ground hunter that pursues prey actively rather than constructing capture webs. Like other gnaphosids, likely produces silk retreats for molting, egg-laying, and diurnal shelter.

Predator of small invertebrates in soil and ground-layer communities; contributes to decomposition food web dynamics through predation on soil fauna.

No documented economic or medical significance; not known to bite humans.

• Drassodes neglectusOverlaps in distribution and general morphology; distinguished by male pedipalp structure and female epigynal configuration.
• Drassodes saccatusSimilar ground-dwelling habit and body form; requires genital examination for separation.
• Other Gnaphosidae genera (e.g., Zelotes)Convergent ground-dwelling morphology; distinguished by eye arrangement, spinneret position, and genitalia.

• spider
• ground spider
• nocturnal
• North America
• Gnaphosidae

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life