Gnathonargus

Bishop & Crosby, 1935

Species Guides

1

Gnathonargus is a of dwarf spiders ( Linyphiidae) containing the single Gnathonargus unicorn. It was described by S. C. Bishop and C. R. Crosby in 1935 and is to the United States. The genus is distinguished by a unique morphological feature in males: a prominent projection from the resembling a unicorn horn.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Gnathonargus: /nəˌθoʊˈnɑːrɡəs/

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Identification

Males of the sole Gnathonargus unicorn are identified by a diagnostic clypeal projection: an elongate, slender rod with a rounded end that points diagonally upward. This structure is the source of the species epithet 'unicorn' and appears to be unique among North American linyphiids.

Distribution

United States only. Specific state records are not documented in available sources.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Linyphiidae generaGnathonargus is distinguished from other North American dwarf spiders by the male clypeal projection, which is not known to occur in related .

More Details

Etymology

The name 'unicorn' refers to the horn-like projection on the male .

Sources and further reading