Mecaphesa deserti
(Schick, 1965)
Mecaphesa deserti is a of crab in the Thomisidae. It was described by Schick in 1965. The species occurs in arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico, consistent with its specific epithet referencing desert . As a member of the Mecaphesa, it belongs to a group of spiders characterized by laterigrade leg orientation and ambush .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Mecaphesa deserti: //ˌmɛkəˈfiːsə ˈdɛzərtaɪ//
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Identification
Mecaphesa deserti can be distinguished from other Mecaphesa by features described in the original 1965 description by Schick. Members of the Mecaphesa generally exhibit laterigrade legs (oriented sideways, allowing crab-like movement), a somewhat flattened body form, and often possess or spines on the and . Specific diagnostic characters for M. deserti require examination of the original type description.
Habitat
Arid and desert environments in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Distribution
United States (southwestern states) and Mexico.
Behavior
As a thomisid crab , Mecaphesa deserti is presumed to exhibit ambush , waiting motionless on vegetation or flowers to capture . Laterigrade leg orientation permits sideways movement.
Ecological Role
in desert .
Similar Taxa
- Mecaphesa celerCongeneric with overlapping distribution in southwestern North America; requires detailed morphological comparison for separation.
- Other Mecaphesa speciesThe Mecaphesa contains multiple with similar general ; precise identification relies on examination of and other subtle characters described in taxonomic revisions.