Tigrosa aspersa
(Hentz, 1844)
Woodland Giant Wolf Spider
Tigrosa aspersa is a large wolf spider reaching up to 25 mm in body length, inhabiting the eastern United States. Previously classified as Hogna aspersa, it was moved to the Tigrosa in 2012. The is notably larger than its close relative Tigrosa helluo.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tigrosa aspersa: /tɪˈɡroʊsə æˈspɜrsə/
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Identification
Distinguished from the similar Tigrosa helluo by its substantially larger size. Definitive identification requires examination of morphological characters; the was historically confused with other , as evidenced by the misapplication of the name Lycosa aspersa to Lycosa implacida by Nicolet in 1849.
Images
Appearance
Large wolf spider with body length up to 25 mm (approximately one inch). Overall robust build typical of the Lycosidae.
Habitat
Woodland ; specific microhabitat preferences not well documented in available sources.
Distribution
Eastern United States. Distribution records also include Canada, though specific Canadian localities are not detailed in available sources.
Host Associations
- Anoplius aethiops - Paralyzed and used as larval food source by this spider wasp; documented record from New Jersey
Behavior
Typical of wolf spiders (Lycosidae): active hunters that do not build webs to capture prey. Specific behavioral observations for this are limited in available sources.
Ecological Role
; serves as prey for spider wasps including Anoplius aethiops.
Similar Taxa
- Tigrosa helluoClose relative distinguished by smaller body size; T. aspersa is notably larger
- Lycosa implacidaHistorical confusion: this was mistakenly named Lycosa aspersa by Nicolet in 1849, creating nomenclatural complexity