Sphodros paisano
Gertsch & Platnick, 1980
Sphodros paisano is a purseweb spider in the Atypidae, described in 1980. This constructs characteristic silk-lined burrows camouflaged with debris and soil, a defining trait of its family. It is found in the southern United States and Mexico.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sphodros paisano: /ˈsfɔd.ɹɒs paɪˈsɑː.nəʊ/
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Identification
As a member of Atypidae, S. paisano can be distinguished from other mygalomorph spiders by its purseweb—a horizontal or sloping silk tube covered with soil and debris that serves as both retreat and prey-capture structure. The Sphodros is distinguished from the related Atypus by the presence of a rastellum (a row of strong spines on the ) and differences in genitalia. -level identification of Sphodros requires examination of male and female spermathecae.
Habitat
Found in areas where purseweb construction is feasible, typically involving suitable soil substrates for burrow excavation and silk tube construction.
Distribution
United States and Mexico.
Behavior
Constructs and occupies a purseweb—a silk-lined burrow extending above ground as a camouflaged tube. Prey over the exposed tube are detected through vibration and pulled through the silk wall.
Ecological Role
that captures ground-dwelling insects and other arthropods.
Similar Taxa
- Sphodros atlanticusOverlaps in eastern United States distribution; distinguished by genitalic and geographic separation.
- Sphodros nigerOverlaps in distribution; distinguished by genitalic characters and subtle differences in size and coloration.
- Atypus speciesAlso purseweb spiders but lack the rastellum (cheliceral spine row) present in Sphodros; Atypus constructs more vertical webs.