Dolomedidae
Dolomedidae·Dolomedidae·https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/32/Dolomedes_fimbriatus_%282%29.jpg
Dolomedidae is a family of spiders that was formerly classified under Pisauridae. This family includes the well-known raft spiders, belonging to the genus Dolomedes, and their closely related species. Dolomedidae spiders are distinguished morphologically from other pisaurids by specific features in the male and female palps.
Key Facts
- ›Dolomedidae is a distinct spider family, re-established in 2025.
- ›It was previously considered part of the larger Pisauridae family.
- ›The family contains seven genera and 128 species.
- ›The genus Dolomedes, commonly known as raft spiders, belongs to this family.
- ›Morphological differences in male and female palps distinguish Dolomedidae from Pisauridae.
Raft Spiders
- Males Possess A Subterminal Lateral Apophysis Below the Fulcrum.
- Females Possess Small, Rounded Accessory Bulbs.
About Dolomedidae
Dolomedidae is a family of spiders that was established as a distinct taxonomic unit in 2025. Prior to this reclassification, these spiders were considered part of the larger family Pisauridae. The family includes the well-known genus Dolomedes, commonly referred to as raft spiders, and other closely related genera.
Taxonomy and Distinguishing Features
The family Dolomedidae was first circumscribed by Eugène Simon in 1876, but its status was later merged with Pisauridae and Bradystichidae. A significant phylogenetic study in 2025 led to its restoration as a separate family, based on findings that Pisauridae was paraphyletic. Morphologically, Dolomedidae spiders can be distinguished from other pisaurids by specific characteristics observed in their palps. In males, this includes the presence of a subterminal lateral apophysis located below the fulcrum. Females are differentiated by possessing small, rounded accessory bulbs.
Genera and Species
As of October 2025, the Dolomedidae family is recognized as containing seven genera and a total of 128 species. This classification reflects recent advancements in spider taxonomy driven by genetic and morphological research.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dolomedidae family?
Dolomedidae is a family of spiders, recognized in 2025 after phylogenetic studies indicated it should be separate from the Pisauridae family. It encompasses several genera, including the well-known raft spiders.
How many genera and species are in the Dolomedidae family?
As of October 2025, the Dolomedidae family includes seven genera and a total of 128 species. This classification reflects recent taxonomic revisions based on genetic studies.
What are raft spiders?
Raft spiders are a common name for spiders belonging to the genus Dolomedes. These spiders are part of the Dolomedidae family and are known for their distinctive behavior of resting on the surface of water.
What distinguishes Dolomedidae from Pisauridae spiders?
Morphologically, Dolomedidae spiders differ from Pisauridae spiders in specific features of their palps. Males possess a subterminal lateral apophysis below the fulcrum, while females have small, rounded accessory bulbs.