Ortholasma colossus
Shear, 2010
Ortholasma colossus is a of harvestman (order Opiliones) described by Shear in 2010. It belongs to the Nemastomatidae, a group of small to medium-sized harvestmen characterized by distinctive body ornamentation. The species is found in North America. Like other members of its , it is a slow-moving, arachnid.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ortholasma colossus: //ɔːrθoʊˈlæzmə kəˈlɒsəs//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Ortholasma by specific features of body ornamentation and proportions described in the original description (Shear, 2010). The Ortholasma is recognizable within Nemastomatidae by its distinctive structure and . Separation from other nemastomatid genera requires examination of structure, tarsal segmentation, and body sculpturing patterns.
Images
Appearance
As a member of Ortholasma, likely exhibits the characteristic body armor typical of the genus: a heavily sculptured, often spiny or tuberculate surface with complex patterns. The body is compact with relatively short legs compared to some other harvestman . The specific epithet "colossus" suggests relatively large size for the genus or family. Coloration likely cryptic, matching forest floor substrates.
Habitat
Forest floor in North America; specific microhabitat preferences unknown but likely similar to in leaf litter, under bark, or on moist rock surfaces in wooded environments.
Distribution
North America; specific range within the continent not documented in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- Other Ortholasma speciesShare -level characteristics of body sculpturing and require detailed examination of morphological features for separation
- Other Nemastomatidae generaSimilar overall body plan and use; distinguished by structure, tarsal counts, and specific patterns of ornamentation
More Details
Taxonomic note
The specific epithet "colossus" was chosen by Shear (2010), likely referencing relatively large body size compared to related . The Ortholasma is part of the Ortholasmatinae, which exhibits some of the most elaborate body ornamentation within the order Opiliones.