Pardosa atlantica

Emerton, 1913

Atlantic wolf spider, thin-legged wolf spider

Pardosa atlantica is a of wolf in the Lycosidae, described by Emerton in 1913. As a member of the Pardosa, commonly known as thin-legged wolf spiders, it belongs to one of the most abundant wolf spider genera in North America. The species is found in the United States, though specific details about its and biology remain limited in available literature. Like other Pardosa species, it is likely a ground-dwelling, active hunter.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pardosa atlantica: //pɑːrˈdoʊsə ætlænˈtɪkə//

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Identification

As a Pardosa , P. atlantica can be distinguished from other wolf by its long leg that are nearly perpendicular to the leg axis, in contrast to the shorter, more parallel spines of other lycosids. The hind pair of legs is notably long, with spines more easily observed on this pair. The is higher than in most other wolf spiders, with nearly vertical sides of the . Definitive species-level identification requires microscopic examination of : females possess a paired , while males have highly modified resembling small boxing gloves. Mature males may exhibit color patterns distinct from females.

Distribution

United States. GBIF records indicate presence in North America with confirmed occurrences in the USA.

Similar Taxa

Other Pardosa speciesThe Pardosa contains 65 recognized in the U.S., many of which are morphologically similar and require examination of for definitive identification.
SchizocosaAnother lycosid with superficially similar color patterns including cephalothoracic stripes and abdominal cardiac marks; distinguished by leg orientation and body proportions.
AlopecosaSimilar ground-dwelling wolf with comparable body plans; differs in shape and leg characteristics.

More Details

Taxonomic note

The specific epithet 'atlantica' likely refers to the Atlantic region of the United States, though the precise locality and full geographic range within the U.S. require further investigation. The was described by James Henry Emerton, a prominent arachnologist.

Research gaps

Available sources provide minimal -specific information for P. atlantica. Most ecological and behavioral details in this record are inferred from -level characteristics of Pardosa as documented in Vogel (2004) and Bradley (2013), and should be treated as provisional pending direct study of this species.