Porrhomma terrestre
(Emerton, 1882)
terrestrial wide-eyed sheetweaver
Porrhomma terrestre is a sheetweb spider in the Linyphiidae, originally described by Emerton in 1882. It is one of several in the Porrhomma, which are characterized by their reduced or absent —a trait associated with their to subterranean or dark . The species is known from Canada and the United States, with records from Alberta and other regions. As a linyphiid, it constructs sheet webs for prey capture.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Porrhomma terrestre: /pɔˈroʊmə tɛˈrɛstrɛ/
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Identification
in the Porrhomma are distinguished from other Linyphiidae by their reduction, with some species completely lacking eyes. Porrhomma terrestre specifically may be differentiated from by subtle morphological features of the male and female , though detailed diagnostic characters require examination of or specialized taxonomic literature. The species epithet 'terrestre' suggests a ground-dwelling habit, potentially distinguishing it from cave-associated congeners.
Distribution
Canada (including Alberta) and the United States. Records indicate presence in western and central regions of North America.
Behavior
Constructs sheet webs, typical of the Linyphiidae. The specific web architecture and prey capture of this have not been documented separately from general family characteristics.
Similar Taxa
- Other Porrhomma species share reduction and small body size; require genital examination for definitive separation
- Other LinyphiidaeDistinguished by the -level trait of reduced or absent
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet 'terrestre' is Latin for 'of the earth' or 'terrestrial', indicating the ground-dwelling nature of this in contrast to cave-dwelling relatives in the .
Taxonomic history
Originally described by James Henry Emerton in 1882, a prominent North American arachnologist. The has remained in the Porrhomma since description, with no recorded synonymy.