Tibellus duttoni
(Hentz, 1847)
Dutton's Slender Crab Spider
Tibellus duttoni is a running crab spider in the Philodromidae, characterized by its elongated body form and grass-mimicking appearance. It hunts by ambush on vegetation rather than building webs to capture prey. The occurs across much of North America, including the United States, Mexico, and southern Canada. are relatively small, with females typically larger than males.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tibellus duttoni: /tɪˈbɛləs ˈdʌtənaɪ/
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Identification
Distinguished from other slender crab spiders ( Tibellus) by subtle pattern details requiring expert examination; -level identification often requires genitalic dissection. Separated from similar-looking nursery web spiders (Pisaurina spp.) by more flattened body profile, less hairy appearance, and different arrangement. Distinguished from Thanatus spp. (also Philodromidae) by more slender build, more elongate stripes, and preference for elevated vegetation rather than ground . Separated from striped lynx spiders (Oxyopes salticus) by absence of prominent leg spines, flatter body profile, and less scrunched resting posture.
Appearance
Elongated, slender body with long legs. surface typically bears longitudinal stripes that provide camouflage against grasses and stems. Body flattened in profile. females range 6-11 mm in body length; males 5-8 mm. Coloration variable but generally pale with dark longitudinal markings. Legs long and thin, adapted for grasping vegetation rather than running on flat surfaces.
Habitat
Grasses, foliage, stems, stalks, and leaves of herbaceous vegetation. Found in open including meadows, fields, forest edges, and disturbed areas such as vacant lots. Almost always encountered on elevated vegetation rather than on the ground.
Distribution
United States, Mexico, and southern Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan).
Diet
Active hunting ; captures prey by ambush on vegetation. Specific prey items for this not documented.
Life Cycle
Females construct flattened which they guard until spiderlings emerge. Spiderlings disperse after molting. Detailed timing not documented for this .
Behavior
Hunts by lying in ambush on grasses or foliage, relying on camouflage. Adopts flattened posture pressed against stems or leaves. Females exhibit strong maternal guarding , remaining with even when disturbed. Does not build capture webs; relies on speed and camouflage to capture prey.
Ecological Role
in herbaceous vegetation ; contributes to in grassland and edge .
Human Relevance
Generally overlooked due to cryptic appearance; may be encountered during field work or gardening. Not known to bite humans; no medical significance. Can be collected using sweep nets in grassy .
Similar Taxa
- Tibellus spp.Other slender crab spiders in same ; require expert examination or genitalic dissection for definitive identification.
- Pisaurina mira / P. dubiaNursery web spiders with similar striped pattern and overlap; distinguished by more robust, hairier build, different arrangement, and larger size.
- Thanatus spp.Philodromid spiders with similar coloration; distinguished by more robust body, different stripe pattern, and ground-dwelling habit versus elevated vegetation preference.
- Oxyopes salticusStriped lynx spider with superficially similar appearance; distinguished by prominent leg spines, longer ',' and more scrunched ambush posture.