Rabidosa santrita
(Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942)
Santa Rita Wolf Spider
Rabidosa santrita is a of wolf spider in the Lycosidae, found in the United States and Mexico. It is a known for the spider wasp Anoplius aethiops, which paralyzes and provisions it as food for its larvae. The species belongs to a of large, ground-dwelling wolf spiders that exhibit maternal care by carrying sacs and spiderlings.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rabidosa santrita: /ræbɪˈdoʊsə sænˈtraɪtə/
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Identification
Distinguished from the similar Rabidosa rabida (Rabid Wolf Spider) by its generally smaller size and lack of pale spots inside the margin of the dark abdominal stripe. The underside of the has a diagnostic pattern of black spots or blotches. Mature females average approximately 15 mm in body length, males around 13 mm.
Habitat
Open areas including fields, forest edges, meadows, and prairies. Ground-dwelling, typically found amid grasses and other vegetation.
Distribution
United States and Mexico. North America.
Host Associations
- Anoplius aethiops - preyParalyzed and used as larval food; one of eight known lycosid for this spider wasp
Ecological Role
Serves as prey for spider wasps in the Pompilidae, particularly Anoplius aethiops.
Similar Taxa
- Rabidosa rabidaLarger size with pale spots inside the dark abdominal stripe margin; R. santrita lacks these spots and is smaller
- Rabidosa punctulataSimilar size range and ground-dwelling habit; distinguished by specific abdominal pattern of black spots or blotches