Philodromus possiblepratariae
Running crab spider
Philodromus possiblepratariae is a running crab spider in the Philodromidae. Like other members of this , it is an active hunter that does not build webs to capture prey. The is part of a diverse genus of spiders commonly found on vegetation and structures, where they rely on speed and camouflage to ambush prey. The specific epithet suggests possible taxonomic uncertainty or similarity to P. pratariae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Philodromus possiblepratariae: /fɪloʊˈdroʊməs pɒsɪbəlˈprætɑːriaɪ/
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Identification
Members of Philodromus can be distinguished from similar crab spiders in Thomisidae by their laterigrade leg orientation (legs extending sideways from the body) and the characteristic leg length pattern: the second pair of legs is the longest, rather than the first pair as in thomisids. Philodromus are generally flattened in body shape and have a distinctive arrangement. Species-level identification within Philodromus typically requires examination of genitalia and is challenging from images alone.
Habitat
Vegetation, tree trunks, walls, and other vertical surfaces. Members of this are frequently found on the exterior walls of buildings at night.
Diet
Active that feed on insects and other small arthropods. They do not build capture webs but instead ambush or pursue prey.
Behavior
Nocturnally active hunters that prowl vertical surfaces. When disturbed, they can move with considerable speed. Females guard sacs.
Ecological Role
of small insects and other arthropods in vegetation and on structures.
Human Relevance
Occasionally encountered indoors, including in bathrooms and showers, where they may become trapped in sinks or tubs due to slippery surfaces. Not considered dangerously venomous to humans.
Similar Taxa
- Selenops spp. (Selenopidae)Also called 'flatties' and share the laterigrade leg posture and flattened body. Distinguished by having six in one row across the and legs increasingly longer from front to back (rather than second pair longest).
- Thomisidae (crab spiders)Share crab-like appearance but have first pair of legs longest rather than second pair, and different arrangement.
- Sparassidae (giant crab spiders/huntsman spiders)Similar flattened body and laterigrade legs, but much larger in size and different arrangement.