Phylogenetic-intermediate
Guides
Hypochilus thorelli
Thorell's Lampshade-web Spider, lampshade spider
Hypochilus thorelli is a relictual spider species notable for possessing four book lungs—a trait shared with mesothele and mygalomorph spiders but unique among araneomorphs. The species constructs distinctive lampshade-shaped webs on the undersides of overhangs in humid Appalachian forests. First described by George Marx in 1888, it serves as the type species for both its genus and family. Its combination of primitive respiratory anatomy with derived silk-producing structures makes it significant for spider phylogenetics.
Tytthonyx
Tytthonyx is a genus of soldier beetles comprising approximately 19 described species. It occupies a phylogenetically ambiguous position, currently classified as incertae sedis within Silinae in its own tribe Tytthonyxini, though phylogenetic analysis indicates it is sister to Malthininae. The genus exhibits a combination of morphological traits shared with both subfamilies. Some species possess distinctly serrate antennae.