Hogna pseudoceratiola
(Wallace, 1942)
Hogna pseudoceratiola is a of wolf spider in the Lycosidae, first described by H. K. Wallace in 1942. It is to a restricted range in Florida, occurring only in scrub on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge. The species is known from just five iNaturalist observations, indicating it is poorly documented and likely rare or locally distributed. Its specific epithet references its similarity to Hogna ceratiola, another Florida endemic.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hogna pseudoceratiola: /ˈhɔɡ.nə ˌsjuː.doʊˌsɛ.ra.ti̯oʊ.lə/
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Identification
Hogna pseudoceratiola can be distinguished from other Florida Hogna by its restricted geographic range in Atlantic Coastal Ridge scrubs. It is most similar to Hogna ceratiola, from which it was originally separated; specific diagnostic characters require examination of morphological details described in Wallace's 1942 description. As with other Hogna species, it likely exhibits the enlarged characteristic of Lycosidae, but species-level identification may require expert examination.
Habitat
Florida scrub on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge, specifically in xeric scrub characterized by sandy soils, open patches, and scrub oaks.
Distribution
to Florida, United States. Known from Indian River, Martin, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge. No records outside this restricted range.
Ecological Role
As a wolf spider, likely functions as a in scrub , though specific ecological relationships remain undocumented.
Similar Taxa
- Hogna ceratiolaThe specific epithet 'pseudoceratiola' indicates close similarity; both are Florida endemics in scrub , and H. pseudoceratiola was originally described as distinct from this .
- Hogna carolinensisLarge wolf spider in same with overlapping southeastern U.S. range, though H. carolinensis is more widespread and not restricted to Florida scrubs.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by H. K. Wallace in 1942, with the specific epithet reflecting its resemblance to Hogna ceratiola.
Conservation status
The restricted range and specific requirements suggest potential vulnerability to habitat loss from Florida scrub development, though no formal conservation assessment has been documented.