Tigrosa aspersa
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Lycosidae
- Genus: Tigrosa
- Species: aspersa
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tigrosa aspersa: /tɪˈɡroʊsə æˈspɜrsə/
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Images
Summary
Tigrosa aspersa is a large wolf spider that inhabits the eastern United States and is characterized by distinct physical features such as yellow hairs near the eyes and banded legs.
Physical Characteristics
Females measure 18 to 25 mm in length, while males measure 16 to 18 mm. They have a thin line of yellow hairs in the eye area and banded legs with a lighter brown color at the joints. Males are significantly lighter in color compared to females.
Identification Tips
Distinguished from H. carolinensis by the narrow line of yellow hairs on the carapace and the more spotted venter. Banded legs can also help in identification.
Habitat
Inhabits various environments across the eastern United States, typically in areas with ground cover.
Distribution
New England and adjacent Canada south to Florida and west to Nebraska.
Diet
As a wolf spider, it primarily preys on insects and other small arthropods.
Ecosystem Role
Plays a key role in controlling insect populations as a predator.
Evolution
Previously classified as Hogna aspersa until 2012 when reclassified into the genus Tigrosa.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often confused with Hogna carolinensis due to similar appearance.
Tags
- spider
- Tigrosa aspersa
- wolf spider
- Arachnida
- lycosidae