Pardosa dorsuncata

Lowrie & Dondale, 1981

Pardosa dorsuncata is a of thin-legged wolf in the Lycosidae. It was described by Lowrie and Dondale in 1981. The species is found in the United States and Canada, with records from Alberta and British Columbia in Canada. As a member of the Pardosa, it shares characteristics typical of this widespread group of small to -sized wolf spiders.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pardosa dorsuncata: //pɑːrˈdoʊsə ˌdɔːrsʌŋˈkɑːtə//

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Identification

As a Pardosa , Pardosa dorsuncata can be distinguished from other wolf by its long on the legs that are almost perpendicular to the leg axis, rather than shorter spines more parallel to the leg surface as in most other Lycosidae. The hind pair of legs is notably long, and the spines are often most visible on this rear pair. The is higher than in most other wolf spiders, with nearly vertical sides of the . Species-level identification requires microscopic examination of : females possess a paired , while males have highly modified resembling small boxing gloves near the face.

Habitat

Members of the Pardosa are often abundant around water, including rocky streambeds, marshy wetlands, and lake beaches. They also occur in wooded areas, prowling forest floors and scrambling over logs and leaf litter. Fields and agricultural edges support , and some occupy high elevations in mountainous regions.

Distribution

United States and Canada. Canadian records include Alberta and British Columbia.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Pardosa speciesShare the characteristic long, perpendicular leg and elevated ; require genital examination for definitive separation.
  • Other Lycosidae generaDiffer in leg orientation (shorter, more parallel to leg surface) and generally lower profile.

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