Xysticus bicuspis
Keyserling, 1887
Xysticus bicuspis is a of ground crab in the Thomisidae. The Xysticus comprises ambush commonly known as ground crab spiders, which typically hunt without webs. Xysticus species are distinguished from similar crab spiders in the genus Coriarachne and Misumena by morphological features and preferences. This species has been recorded from the northern United States and southern Canada, including Montana, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Xysticus bicuspis: /ˈzɪstɪkəs bɪˈkʌspɪs/
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Identification
Xysticus can be distinguished from the similar ground crab Coriarachne by the arrangement of and the structure of the . Xysticus species typically have a more flattened body and shorter, stouter legs than Misumena, the flower crab spiders. Identification to species level in Xysticus requires examination of , particularly the in females and the in males. The specific epithet 'bicuspis' refers to two-pointed structures, likely describing features of the genitalia or .
Habitat
Ground crab in the Xysticus inhabit ground-level including grasslands, open fields, and the base of vegetation. They are typically found in leaf litter, among grasses, and on low vegetation rather than on flowers.
Distribution
Recorded from the northern United States (Montana) and southern Canada (Manitoba, Saskatchewan). The distribution appears to be centered in the northern Great Plains region of North America.
Behavior
As with other Xysticus , X. bicuspis is an ambush that does not construct webs for capture. Individuals wait in concealed positions and seize passing prey with their enlarged legs.
Similar Taxa
- Xysticus mongolicusFormerly classified in Xysticus, now transferred to Spiracme mongolica based on genital ; this highlights the taxonomic instability and importance of detailed examination for distinguishing ground crab .
- CoriarachneAnother of ground crab with similar preferences and appearance; distinguished by arrangement and structure.
- MisumenaFlower crab that differ in (flowers vs. ground) and body proportions (more elongated with longer legs).