Tennesseellum
Petrunkevitch, 1925
Species Guides
1- Tennesseellum formica(Ant Sheet-web Weaver)
Tennesseellum is a of sheet-web weaving spiders in the Linyphiidae, established by Alexander Petrunkevitch in 1925. The genus is notably small, containing only two described : T. formica and T. gollum. These spiders are found in two widely separated geographic regions: the United States and the Marshall Islands. As linyphiids, they construct horizontal sheet webs with a retreat area, though specific web architecture details for this genus are not well documented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tennesseellum: //tɛˌnɪˈsiːləm//
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Identification
Tennesseellum are distinguished from other linyphiid by a combination of genitalic characters, particularly male palpal and female epigynal . The genus name references Tennessee, where the type species was discovered. Specific diagnostic features require microscopic examination of reproductive structures. The two species, T. formica and T. gollum, are separated based on subtle differences in these structures and geographic separation.
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Distribution
United States (Tennessee and other states) and the Marshall Islands. The disjunct distribution between continental North America and Pacific islands is unusual and suggests either historical biogeographic connections or potential human-mediated .
Behavior
Constructs sheet webs typical of the Linyphiidae—horizontal silk sheets with a retreat area where the spider waits for prey. Specific behavioral details beyond general family-level traits are not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Linyphiidae generaMany linyphiid share the general body plan of small size and sheet-web construction. Tennesseellum is distinguished primarily by genitalic rather than obvious external features.
More Details
Etymology
The name Tennesseellum refers to Tennessee, the U.S. state where the type was first collected. The species epithet 'gollum' references the character from J.R.R. Tolkien's works, reflecting a trend of whimsical naming in arachnology.
Taxonomic history
The has remained small and stable since its description in 1925, with only two recognized. This stability suggests either genuine rarity or undercollecting in appropriate .