Emertonella taczanowskii
(Keyserling, 1886)
Emertonella taczanowskii is a small cobweb spider ( Theridiidae) with a remarkably broad geographic distribution spanning the Americas, Asia, and Oceania. Originally described from South America in 1886, the has been introduced to multiple regions including India, Sri Lanka, China, Japan (Ryukyu Islands), New Guinea, and Australia. Its wide pattern suggests human-mediated transport, though natural dispersal mechanisms may also contribute. The species belongs to a characterized by reduced body size and modified in males.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Emertonella taczanowskii: /ˌɛm.ɜːr.təˈnɛl.ə təˌkzæˈnaʊ.ski/
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Distribution
Native range: North, Central, and South America (United States to Argentina, including Brazil: Amazonas, Paraíba, Roraima, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, São Paulo). Introduced range: India, Sri Lanka, China, Japan (Ryukyu Islands), New Guinea, and Australia. Also present in Middle America.
Human Relevance
The ' extensive introduced range across multiple continents indicates potential for human-mediated , possibly through cargo transport or agricultural products. No specific economic or medical significance has been documented.
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described by Eugen von Keyserling in 1886. The Emertonella was established to accommodate small theridiid spiders with distinctive male .
Dispersal Pattern
The combination of native New World distribution and introduced Old World/Pacific presence is characteristic of spiders capable of surviving in human-altered environments.