Peckhamia picata
(Hentz, 1846)
antmimic jumper
Peckhamia picata is a North American jumping spider notable for its specialized mimicry of the Camponotus nearcticus. Unlike many ant-mimicking spiders that simply resemble ants in appearance, this has been observed to specifically avoid eliciting aggressive responses from its ant model. The species belongs to a distinguished from related ant-mimic genera by convex shape and sharply declivous region behind the third row of . Individuals are active runners that hold their second pair of legs aloft to simulate ant , making them challenging photographic subjects.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Peckhamia picata: /pɛkˈheɪ.mi.ə pɪˈkeɪ.tə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from related ant-mimic jumping spider Synageles by shape: more convex in the cephalic area and sharply declivous behind the third row of . The habit of holding the second pair of legs raised to simulate is shared with Synageles but combined with the specific carapace confirms genus placement. -level identification requires examination of detailed morphological characters not readily visible in field observations. The specific mimicry target Camponotus nearcticus may aid field recognition where this ant is present.
Images
Habitat
Associated with xeric limestone prairies (glades) and woodland edges. Has been observed on post oak (Quercus stellata) trees and in sparse vegetation on thinly soiled dolomite exposures. selection appears tied to presence of the model Camponotus nearcticus.
Distribution
North America. Documented from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba) and the United States. Specific U.S. records include Missouri (Victoria Glades Conservation Area, White River Hills).
Host Associations
- Camponotus nearcticus - mimicry modelSpecific visual and behavioral mimicry of this ; does not elicit aggressive from the ant
Behavior
Extremely active and continuous runner, making observation and photography challenging. Holds second pair of legs aloft to create illusion of . Erratic, jerky movement pattern mimics ant locomotion. When disturbed, attempts to evade observation by rapid, unpredictable movement through vegetation.
Similar Taxa
- SynagelesRelated ant-mimic jumping spider ; distinguished by Peckhamia's more convex cephalic and sharply declivous behind third row
- Tutelina similisAnother North American jumping spider with -mimicry and ant- ; differs in having metallic coloration and different
More Details
Aggressive mimicry dynamics
The specific non-aggressive response from Camponotus nearcticus toward Peckhamia picata suggests this is not merely general mimicry but a finely tuned mimicry system, potentially representing a case of protective mimicry rather than (where the mimic would prey on the model)
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- Catalogue of Life
- When is an ant not an ant? When it’s a jumping spider, of course! | Beetles In The Bush
- Bug Eric: A Jumping Spider, Tutelina similis
- Bug Eric: A Case of Predator Mimicry in the Bee Fly Genus Epacmus? (Diptera: Bombyliidae)
- Jeepers Creepers, where’d ya get those multilayered retinae? | Beetles In The Bush