Scytodes dorothea

Gertsch, 1935

spitting spider

Scytodes dorothea is a of spitting spider in the Scytodidae, first described by Gertsch in 1935. Like other members of its , it possesses the distinctive ability to eject sticky venom from its to immobilize prey. The species is part of a family characterized by six arranged in three pairs, a highly convex housing enlarged venom glands, and slow, deliberate hunting movements. Very few specific details about this particular species are documented in available sources.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Scytodes dorothea: /sɪˈtoʊdiːz ˌdɔːrəˈθiːə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Scytodes dorothea can be distinguished from other Scytodes only through detailed examination by arachnological . The Scytodes as a whole is recognized by six in three pairs (rather than the typical eight eyes of most spiders), a markedly convex or domed , and long, slender legs. Species-level identification requires reference to the original 1935 description by Gertsch and comparison with .

Distribution

United States

Similar Taxa

Scytodes thoracicaThe most widely distributed spitting spider in North America, similarly marked and potentially overlapping in range, but distinguished by specific pattern details on the and body proportions.
Scytodes longipesAn introduced with larger body size (6-8 mm) and long legs, potentially confused with S. dorothea where ranges overlap, but distinguished by size and possibly leg proportions.
Loxosceles spp. (brown recluse and relatives)Both (Scytodidae and Sicariidae) share six in three pairs and superficially similar body shape, but Scytodes lacks the characteristic 'violin' marking on the and has a more domed cephalothorax shape.

More Details

Etymology

The specific epithet 'dorothea' likely honors photographer Dorothea Lange (1895-1965), as arachnologist Jason Bond has named other spider after her. However, the original 1935 description by Gertsch should be consulted to confirm the etymology.

Data Deficiency

This is known from very few records (3 observations in iNaturalist as of source date). The species description and any subsequent taxonomic revisions are not accessible in the provided sources, limiting confident identification of distinguishing characteristics.