Coleosoma
O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1882
Coleosoma is a of -footed in the Theridiidae, established by O. Pickard-Cambridge in 1882. The genus comprises ten currently recognized with a distribution. Taxonomic revision has been ongoing, with several species transferred to other genera and numerous synonymies established. The genus includes both and species, with C. octomaculatum documented as established in New Zealand through anthropogenic introduction.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coleosoma: //ˌkəʊliəˈsoʊmə//
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Identification
-footed (Theridiidae) possess a row of serrated bristles (the comb) on the rear legs used for handling. Within Theridiidae, Coleosoma may be distinguished by genitalic ; the has been subdivided into two possible species groups based on these structures. Specific diagnostic characters for the genus require examination of and detailed morphological analysis.
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Habitat
Specific preferences are documented for C. octomaculatum in New Zealand, though broader habitat associations for the remain insufficiently characterized in available sources.
Distribution
. Documented from Denmark, Sweden, New Zealand (C. octomaculatum, and established), and Southeast Asia ( range of C. octomaculatum).
Human Relevance
C. octomaculatum represents a documented case of anthropogenic introduction and establishment outside its range, with potential implications for understanding via human activity.
Similar Taxa
- ChryssoRecent taxonomic confusion; C. octomaculatum was temporarily transferred to Chrysso before being returned to Coleosoma. The share morphological similarities requiring careful genitalic examination for separation.
- PlatnickinaFormer Coleosoma (C. adamsoni) transferred to this ; separation based on revised genitalic and somatic characters.
- NeottiuraFormer Coleosoma (C. margaritum) transferred to this ; distinguished by characteristic theridiid genitalic .
More Details
Taxonomic Instability
The has undergone substantial revision, with 14 synonymies established and multiple transferred to other genera (Platnickina, Neottiura). C. octomaculatum was briefly transferred to Chrysso before reinstatement in Coleosoma.
Species Diversity
As of October 2025, ten are recognized, though historical literature contains numerous names now synonymized under C. acutiventer, C. blandum, and C. floridanum.
Introduction Biology
C. octomaculatum in New Zealand, recorded between 1996-2007, represents the first documented establishment of this outside its Southeast Asian range and is considered probably anthropogenic in origin.