Symphytognathidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Symphytognathidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Symphytognathidae: /sɪmfɪtoʊˈɡnæθɪˌdiː/

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

Summary

Symphytognathidae is a family of tiny spiders with 90 described species across eight genera, primarily found in tropical regions, and notable for their small size and unique morphological characteristics.

Physical Characteristics

Often under 1 mm long as adults; very small size; chelicerae fused at the base; significantly reduced pedipalps in females; four, six, or eight-eyed; opisthosoma covered in long hairs.

Identification Tips

Look for very small spiders with fused chelicerae and reduced pedipalps, often with distinct orb webs.

Habitat

Mainly tropical environments; species are also found in diverse geographic areas including Central and South America, Australia, Asia, and North America.

Distribution

Species known from Australia, Asia, South America, North America, Africa, Japan, and Southeast Asia.

Diet

They create small orb webs to capture prey.