Tigrosa

Tigrosa

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tigrosa: /tɪˈɡroʊsə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Tigrosa aspersa - wolf spider (44430154312) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Common Spiders U.S. 166-7 by James Henry Emerton (1847 – 1931). Used under a Public domain license.
Tigrosa P1580646a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Tigrosa aspersa - wolf spider (44430156462) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Arachtober 19 -1 - Wolf Spider - Tigrosa helluo (37755163772) by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Tigrosa P1150279a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Tigrosa is a genus of wolf spiders in the family Lycosidae, distinguished primarily by their size, behavior, and dorsal patterns. The genus consists of several species found across North America, each with unique patterns and characteristics enabling identification.

Physical Characteristics

Body length ranges from 10 to 31 millimeters; T. aspersa & T. grandis have the largest average body lengths, while T. annexa has the smallest. Dorsal patterns differ significantly among species.

Identification Tips

The dorsal color pattern on the carapace and the shape of the internal genitalia (spermathecae) are crucial for species identification. For females, specific venter coloration and markings can also assist in identification.

Habitat

Occur primarily in a range of habitats across North America including coastal, wooded, and open areas.

Distribution

Found throughout North America, with specific ranges including the USA, Canada, and some species extending into Mexico.

Diet

Carnivorous, primarily preying on insects and other small arthropods.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details specific to genus not provided; typical for Lycosidae involves egg sacs made by females.

Reproduction

Reprodution occurs sexually; specific reproductive behaviors not detailed for Tigrosa.

Ecosystem Role

As predators, they help control insect populations and contribute to the ecosystem's food web.

Cultural Significance

The genus name Tigrosa means 'fierce like a tiger', reflecting both their behavior and appearance.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collection
  • Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Drying specimens

Evolution

Evolved from members of the Lycosa genus prior to 1990, when certain North American species were transferred to Hogna before being classified under Tigrosa in 2012.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some might confuse Tigrosa species with Hogna or Lycosa due to historical classification.

Tags

  • Arachnology
  • Spiders
  • Wolf spiders
  • Tigrosa
  • Lycosidae