Soulgas corticarius
(Emerton, 1909)
Soulgas corticarius is a minute sheet-weaving spider and the sole in the Soulgas. First described by Emerton in 1909, it was later placed in its current genus by Crosby and Bishop in 1936. The species has been recorded only from the northeastern United States and adjacent Canada, with most observations from forested . Its extremely small size and limited number of records make it one of the more poorly documented North American linyphiids.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Soulgas corticarius: //ˈsoʊl.ɡəs ˌkɔr.tɪˈkɛə.ri.əs//
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Identification
Differs from other North American Linyphiidae by its placement in the Soulgas, which can only be confirmed through examination of genitalic structures. Minute body size (typical of the ) and association with bark may aid in field recognition, though definitive identification requires microscopic examination.
Habitat
Has been collected from forested environments; "corticarius" (Latin for "of bark") suggests association with tree bark or woody substrates.
Distribution
Northeastern North America: recorded from Vermont and adjacent regions in the United States, with additional records from Canada. Distribution appears restricted to the northern Appalachian region.
Similar Taxa
- Other Linyphiidae generaNumerous small sheet-weaving spiders share similar minute size and general ; distinguished only by detailed genitalic examination and phylogenetic placement.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Erigone corticaria by Emerton in 1909, transferred to the new Soulgas by Crosby and Bishop in 1936 based on distinct genitalic .
Rarity of records
With only 3 iNaturalist observations and limited museum specimens, this remains one of the most poorly known North American spiders, likely due to its minute size and cryptic bark-dwelling habits rather than actual rarity.