Meriola arcifera
(Simon, 1886)
Meriola arcifera is a of true in the Trachelidae, first described by Simon in 1886. It is native to South America, with confirmed records from Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina. The species has been to several regions outside its native range, including the United States (California and Hawaii) and Chilean offshore islands (Easter Island and Robinson Crusoe Island). Its establishment in these areas suggests human-mediated , though specific introduction remain undocumented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Meriola arcifera: /ˈmɛɹiˌɔlə ˌɑɹ.səˈfɛɹə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
As a member of Trachelidae, this likely shares -level characteristics including a somewhat flattened and elongated . Distinguishing Meriola arcifera from and other trachelid requires examination of genitalic structures and detailed morphological features not available in the provided sources. No specific diagnostic traits for field identification are documented.
Distribution
Native range: Chile, Bolivia, Argentina. range: United States (California, Hawaii), Easter Island (Chile), and Robinson Crusoe Island (Chile). GBIF records also list Brazil and Uruguay, though these may require verification.
Human Relevance
The has established in California and Hawaii due to human introduction. No specific economic or medical significance has been documented. Its presence in these regions represents a case of accidental anthropogenic , common among that inhabit human-modified environments.
Similar Taxa
- Other Trachelidae species members share general body plan and require microscopic examination for definitive identification. Meriola arcifera may be confused with native North American trachelids in its range.
- Trachelas speciesFormerly classified in this (as Trachelas arcifer), and shares historical taxonomic confusion. Current places it in Meriola based on revised morphological analysis.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Trachelas arcifer by Eugène Simon in 1886, this was later transferred to the Meriola. The basionym Trachelas arcifer reflects this taxonomic revision.
Data limitations
Despite being described in 1886, published information on the , , and of Meriola arcifera remains sparse. The low observation count on iNaturalist (5 observations) suggests it is either genuinely uncommon, underreported, or difficult to identify in the field.