Zelotes lasalanus
Chamberlin, 1928
Zelotes lasalanus is a ground spider in the Gnaphosidae, described by Chamberlin in 1928. It is known from North America, with confirmed records from western Canada including Alberta and British Columbia. As a member of the Zelotes, it belongs to a diverse group of hunting spiders commonly referred to as ground spiders.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Zelotes lasalanus: //zɛˈloʊtiːz ˌlæˈsæləˌnəs//
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Identification
-level identification of Zelotes lasalanus requires examination of genitalia under magnification, as is standard for the Zelotes. The genus can be distinguished from other Gnaphosidae by the presence of a preening brush (scopula) on the hind and the characteristic arrangement of , with the lateral spinnerets cylindrical and widely separated. Coloration and body proportions are variable within Zelotes and do not reliably distinguish Z. lasalanus from without microscopic examination.
Images
Distribution
North America. Confirmed records exist from Alberta and British Columbia, Canada. The full extent of its range within North America remains incompletely documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Zelotes speciesZelotes is a large with many morphologically similar . Accurate identification to species level typically requires examination of male or female under a microscope.
- Other Gnaphosidae generaGround spiders in related such as Drassodes and Micaria share general body form and ground-dwelling habits, but differ in structure and leg scopulation.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The specific epithet 'lasalanus' appears to reference La Sal, Utah, suggesting the type locality may be in that region, though this inference is not confirmed by examined sources.