Ariadna pilifera
O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1898
Ariadna pilifera is a tube-dwelling spider in the Segestriidae, first described from Mexico in 1898. Like other members of its family, it constructs silken retreats in crevices and uses a characteristic hunting posture with the first three pairs of legs extended forward to detect prey vibrations. The is known from scattered records in Mexico and the southwestern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ariadna pilifera: /ˌæɹiˈædnə ˌpaɪlɪˈfɪərə/
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Identification
Members of the Ariadna can be distinguished from other Segestriidae by the presence of a distinct cluster of long, erect setae on the surface of the —a trait referenced in the epithet 'pilifera' (hair-bearing). Segestriidae as a whole are recognized by their elongated cylindrical bodies, six arranged in three diads, and legs I-III directed anteriorly at rest. Specific identification of A. pilifera requires examination of genitalic .
Habitat
Crevice-dwelling; occupies spaces under bark, within rock fissures, and in man-made structures. Constructs a silken tube retreat with radiating signal threads.
Distribution
Recorded from Mexico (multiple localities) and the United States (southwestern region, specifically noted from USA-Mexico border area).
Behavior
Maintains a sedentary lifestyle within its silken tube retreat. Uses the first three pairs of legs to detect vibrations from prey contacting the radiating signal threads, then rapidly emerges to capture prey. Does not build a capture web; relies on ambush from the retreat entrance.
Ecological Role
of small arthropods; occupies cryptic microhabitats in woody and rocky substrates.
Similar Taxa
- Ariadna maximaLarger congeneric with overlapping distribution in Mexico; distinguished by size and genitalic characters.
- Segestria spp.Other Segestriidae with similar tube-dwelling habit; distinguished by abdominal setation pattern and arrangement details.