Spintharus
Spintharus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Theridiidae
- Genus: Spintharus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Spintharus: //ˈspɪnθərəs//
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Summary
The genus Spintharus, described in 1850, includes several species primarily distributed from the northeastern U.S. to Brazil and in the Caribbean. Variability exists in their physical structure, and they have gained cultural significance through species named after celebrities.
Physical Characteristics
Females of S. gracilis are 3.7mm long, males 2.3mm. Specimens of S. flavidus are variable in structure, with some exhibiting an elevated eye region or humps on the abdomen.
Identification Tips
Similar to the genus Thwaitesia, and both are similar to Episinus; however, unlike Argyrodes, they possess two setae instead of a colulus.
Habitat
Occurs in various environments from the northeastern United States to Brazil, including Cuba, Jamaica, and other Caribbean islands.
Distribution
Found across the northeastern United States, Central America, and South America, extending down to Brazil, with several species present in the Caribbean.
Diet
As a genus of spiders, they likely prey on small insects and other arthropods, but specific dietary information is not provided.
Life Cycle
Details about the life cycle are not specified; general spider life cycles typically include egg, juvenile, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Specific reproductive habits are not mentioned; spiders generally engage in mating behaviors which lead to egg sac production.
Ecosystem Role
As predators of small insects, they play a role in controlling pest populations within their ecosystems.
Cultural Significance
The genus has a notable aspect in that many new species were named in honor of political figures, artists, and celebrities, making it culturally significant in contemporary discussions of biodiversity.
Evolution
The genus was first described in 1850 by Nicholas Marcellus Hentz and has undergone revisions, with recent revisions in 2018 expanding the number of recognized species.
Tags
- Spintharus
- spiders
- arachnology
- taxonomy
- biodiversity