Pardosa metlakatla
Emerton, 1917
thin-legged wolf spider
Pardosa metlakatla is a of thin-legged wolf spider in the Lycosidae, first described by Emerton in 1917. As a member of the Pardosa, it belongs to one of the most abundant and widespread wolf spider genera in North America. The species occurs in the United States and Canada, with confirmed records from Alberta and British Columbia. Like other Pardosa species, it is characterized by long, perpendicular leg spines and a preference for moist near water.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pardosa metlakatla: /pɑrˈdoʊsə ˌmɛtləˈkætlə/
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Identification
Pardosa , including P. metlakatla, can be distinguished from other wolf spiders by their long leg spines that project almost perpendicular to the leg axis, rather than the shorter, more parallel spines seen in most other Lycosidae. The hind pair of legs is notably long, making the perpendicular spines especially visible there. Species-level identification within Pardosa requires microscopic examination of genitalia: females possess a paired , while males have highly modified resembling small boxing gloves. Mature males may exhibit color patterns distinct from females.
Habitat
Based on -level characteristics, Pardosa are most abundant around water sources including rocky streambeds, marshy wetlands, lake beaches, and moist woodland floors. They also occur in fields, forest edges, and at high elevations in mountainous regions. Some Pardosa species occupy multiple types.
Distribution
Confirmed present in the United States and Canada. Specific provincial records exist for Alberta and British Columbia in Canada. Distribution records in GBIF indicate presence in North America generally.
Ecological Role
As a wolf spider, P. metlakatla likely functions as an active ground-dwelling contributing to control. Pardosa in general are among the most abundant spiders in many North American , suggesting significant predatory impact on small .
Similar Taxa
- Other Pardosa speciesShare the characteristic long, perpendicular leg spines and general body form; require genital examination for definitive separation
- Other Lycosidae genera (e.g., Schizocosa, Tigrosa)Similar arrangement and general wolf spider , but differ in leg spine orientation and length
More Details
Taxonomic note
Pardosa is one of the largest of wolf spiders, with 65 recognized in the United States and 75 species north of Mexico including Canada. P. metlakatla was described by J.H. Emerton in 1917.
Etymology
The specific epithet 'metlakatla' refers to Metlakatla, a in British Columbia, Canada, likely indicating the type locality.