Internet-hoax
Guides
Abedus breviceps
water bug
Abedus breviceps is a giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, characterized by exclusive paternal care behavior where males carry egg masses on their backs. Research using capture-recapture multistate modeling found no survival cost to males from brooding eggs, challenging assumptions about parental care trade-offs. The species inhabits aquatic environments in Middle and North America.
Dysdera crocata
Woodlouse Spider, Woodlouse Hunter, Sowbug Hunter, Sowbug Killer, Pillbug Hunter, Slater Spider
Dysdera crocata is a specialized spider predator native to the Mediterranean region of Europe that has become established worldwide through human commerce. It is the only representative of the family Dysderidae in North America. Despite its formidable appearance—featuring disproportionately large chelicerae and long fangs—it poses no significant danger to humans. The species has been the subject of recurring internet hoaxes falsely claiming it is a new, deadly spider. It is primarily nocturnal and strongly associated with human-modified environments, particularly where its woodlouse prey abounds.