Meriola

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Meriola: /ˈmɛriəˌlɑ/

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Summary

Meriola is a genus of spiders in the family Trachelidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1895, consisting of both native and introduced species primarily found in the Americas, characterized by distinct physical features.

Physical Characteristics

Short, sharp spinelike cusps on the underside of leg tibiae, metatarsi, and tarsi; shorter and straighter posterior eye row compared to related genera.

Identification Tips

Look for the presence of spinelike cusps on the legs and the shape of the posterior eye row to distinguish Meriola from Trachelas species.

Habitat

Varied habitats including those in temperate regions, often found in leafy vegetation or ground litter.

Distribution

Three species native to the USA (Meriola decepta, Meriola californica, Meriola arcifera), with others in South America (Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru) and introduced populations in California and Hawaii.

Diet

Predominantly insectivorous; likely captures small insects using webbing or ambush tactics.

Reproduction

Typical of spiders; involves the male transferring sperm to the female, often followed by the female laying eggs in a silk sac.

Ecosystem Role

Important as insect predators, aiding in the control of pest populations.

Collecting Methods

• Sweep netting
• Hand collecting
• Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Drying in a press

Evolution

Genus Meriola was first described by Nathan Banks in 1895, with some species previously classified under Trachelas (family Corinnidae).

Similar Taxa

• Trachelas
• Corinnidae

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Meriola species with similarly structured spiders from the Corinnidae family.

Tags

• Meriola
• spiders
• Trachelidae
• araneomorph
• North America
• South America