Allocosa funerea
(Hentz, 1844)
Allocosa funerea is a small wolf spider in the Lycosidae, originally described by Hentz in 1844 under the name Lycosa funerea. The exhibits notable in size, with females being slightly larger than males. It is primarily distributed across the eastern and central United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Allocosa funerea: /ˌæloʊˈkoʊsə fjʊˈnɪriə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Allocosa by its specific geographic distribution and size range. Accurate identification to species level requires examination of genitalia ( in females, in males) and comparison with . The small size and eastern US distribution help separate it from larger or western Allocosa species.
Images
Appearance
Small wolf spider with males measuring 3.5–4.9 mm and females 4–5.6 mm in total body length. As a member of Lycosidae, it possesses the characteristic robust body form, prominent , and long legs adapted for hunting. Detailed coloration and patterning descriptions are not available in the provided sources.
Distribution
Found in the United States from Texas and Florida northward to Kansas, Michigan, and Massachusetts. GBIF records suggest a wider distribution that may extend into Canada, though this requires confirmation.
Similar Taxa
- Other Allocosa species share the general wolf spider and require genitalic examination for definitive separation; A. funerea is distinguished by its specific size range and eastern US distribution pattern.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Lycosa funerea by Nicholas Marcellus Hentz in 1844, later transferred to the Allocosa.
Observations
The has been documented in 1,784 observations on iNaturalist as of the data retrieval date.