Desidae

What is Desidae?

Desidae is a family of spiders, notable for some of its members being referred to as intertidal spiders. These unique arachnids have adapted to live in the challenging marine environment of the intertidal zone. The family's name is derived from the genus Desis, whose species are characteristic inhabitants of this coastal habitat. In recent years, the taxonomic understanding of Desidae has expanded, now encompassing a broader range of genera and species that live in inland environments, such as Badumna and Phryganoporus.

Distribution and Habitat

The vast majority of genera currently classified within Desidae are native to Australia, New Zealand, or New Caledonia. However, the family's distribution also extends to other parts of the world, including South America. Some species have even been recorded as far north as Malaysia. A notable instance of introduction is Metaltella simoni, which has established itself in various parts of the Southern United States, raising concerns about its potential impact on native titanoecid species.

Adaptations and Lifestyle

Those intertidal spiders that are truly marine exhibit remarkable adaptations for survival. They commonly reside in barnacle shells, which they meticulously seal with silk. This silken construction is crucial as it allows the spiders to trap an air bubble, enabling them to breathe during high tide when their habitat is submerged. These spiders are primarily nocturnal, emerging from their shelters after dark to hunt. Their diet consists of various small arthropods that also inhabit the intertidal zone, making them active predators in this specialized ecosystem.