Chrosiothes

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Theridiidae
Genus: Chrosiothes

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrosiothes: //ˈkroʊ.si.oʊˌθiːz//

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

Summary

Chrosiothes is a genus of comb-footed spiders with a range of species found primarily in the New World, characterized by their small size, distinct abdominal shapes, and sexual dimorphism. They are important ecologically within their habitats, feeding on small insects and contributing to the balance of arthropod populations.

Physical Characteristics

Body length (excluding legs) typically under 3 millimeters; males much smaller than females. Venter and anterior overhang of abdomen black or dark gray; legs noticeably thick, first or fourth the longest, third always shortest. Carapace low with a slight tubercle in the eye region, sometimes overhanging clypeus. Frequently some red pigment around eyes; lateral eyes usually touching. Abdomen shapes vary among species.

Identification Tips

Males are noticeably smaller than females. Look for specific abdominal shapes and coloration patterns unique to each species for proper identification.

Habitat

Predominantly found in the American Southwest, Mexico, and the Neotropics; some species also found in tropical and subtropical regions.

Distribution

United States to Brazil; with specific species such as Chrosiothes chirica found in Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and Mexico, and Chrosiothes silvaticus found in Florida and extending to Ecuador.

Diet

Insectivorous; they primarily feed on small insects captured in their webs.

Reproduction

Limited reproductive information available; females can have specific marking patterns resembling those of related species, while males exhibit distinct coloration differences.

Ecosystem Role

As a part of the arthropod community, they play a crucial role in controlling insect populations and contributing to ecosystem balance.

Collecting Methods

Field sampling
Sweep nets
Visual search in habitat

Preservation Methods

Ethanol preservation
Pinned specimens
Drying specimens

Evolution

Chrosiothes is a senior synonym of Theridiotis and is closely related to Episinus, Spintharus, Thwaitesia, and Anelosimus.