Naphrys

Edwards, 2003

North American Euophrys jumping spiders

Species Guides

A of small jumping spiders in the Salticidae, tribe Euophryini. First described by G.B. Edwards in 2003, the name is a portmanteau of 'North America' and 'Euophrys'. are compact-bodied, typically under 5 mm in length, with cryptic brown or gray coloration. Originally considered restricted to the Nearctic region, but subsequent research has demonstrated distribution extending into the Neotropical region. The genus currently includes seven described species, with four originally described from the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and three additional species described from Mexico in 2024.

Naphrys by no rights reserved, uploaded by Zygy. Used under a CC0 license.

Naphrys bufoides by no rights reserved, uploaded by Lyn Roueche. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Naphrys: //ˈnæfrɪs//

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Identification

Small jumping spiders with compact bodies, typically less than 5 mm in length. Cryptic coloration in browns or grays with moderate setae. Male palps possess a simple spiral embolus; feature windows framed by circular folds. Distinguished from related by these genitalic characters and by geographic distribution in North America.

Images

Distribution

United States, Canada, and Mexico. Originally described as occurring only in the Nearctic region, but demonstrated to extend into the Neotropical region with three new described from Mexico. Species records: N. acerba (USA, Mexico), N. bufoides (USA), N. pulex (USA, Canada), N. xerophila (USA), plus N. echeri, N. tecoxquin, and N. tuuca (Mexico).

Behavior

Active hunters that rely on vision rather than webs to capture prey. Has been observed sheltering on the sides of buildings and structures at night.

Similar Taxa

EuophrysEtymological and tribal relationship; Naphrys name derives from 'North American Euophrys'. Distinguished by geographic distribution and genitalic .
Other Salticidae genera in tribe EuophryiniSimilar compact body form and jumping ; distinguished by specific male palp and structures, particularly the simple spiral embolus and circular-folded epigynal windows.