Mimetus eutypus
Chamberlin & Ivie, 1935
pirate spider
Mimetus eutypus is a small araneomorph spider in the Mimetidae, commonly known as pirate spiders or cannibal spiders. The was described by Chamberlin & Ivie in 1935 and is known from the United States. Like other mimetids, it is an araneophagic that infiltrates the webs of other spiders rather than building its own. The species was formerly placed in the Reo.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Mimetus eutypus: /mɪˈmiːtəs juːˈtaɪpəs/
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Identification
Mimetus eutypus can be distinguished from other spiders by the characteristic features of the Mimetidae: long spines on the legs that aid in differentiation from cobweb spiders (Theridiidae) and sheet-web weavers. Members of the Mimetus possess four patches. The is small, with body length likely in the 3-7 mm range typical for the genus. Specific diagnostic features for M. eutypus versus other North American Mimetus species require examination of genital ; the species was originally described based on specimens from the western United States.
Distribution
United States. Records include Colorado and other western states.
Diet
Other spiders (araneophagy). Pirate spiders infiltrate the webs of cobweb spiders, orb weavers, and other spiders, mimicking prey vibrations to ambush the spider. They bite the legs of their victims, feeding on one leg after another until the prey is consumed. They also consume the sacs of their prey. Insects may be taken when encountered in host webs.
Behavior
Pirate spiders do not construct their own webs for prey capture. Instead, they stealthily enter the webs of other spiders and mimic the vibrations of prey or potential mates to lure the spider within striking distance. The jaw bases of mimetids restrict gape width, which may explain the leg-targeting attack strategy.
Ecological Role
of other spiders; contributes to intraguild dynamics in spider .
Human Relevance
Pirate spiders pose no threat to humans. They may be encountered indoors and in buildings, where they hunt house spiders. One observer reported finding a specimen on the ceiling of a residence.
Similar Taxa
- Mimetus puritanusThe most common eastern United States pirate spider; M. eutypus is found in the western United States.
- Other Mimetidae (Theridiidae, Linyphiidae)Pirate spiders resemble cobweb spiders and sheet-web weavers; the long leg spines of Mimetidae and their of occupying other spiders' webs help distinguish them.