Fonteferreidae
As an araneoid spider, it is likely a web builder or an active hunter of small invertebrates, though specific hunting strategies are not detailed.
Fonteferreidae is a monotypic family of araneoid spiders, containing only the species Fonteferrea minutissima. This extremely small spider, measuring only 0.75 mm in body length, is known from a single male specimen discovered in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. It is distinguished by the presence of hairs on its tegulum, a rare feature among spiders.
Key Facts
- ›Fonteferreidae is a monotypic family, meaning it contains only one species.
- ›The sole species in the family is Fonteferreidae minutissima.
- ›The family is known only from a single male specimen found in southern Portugal.
- ›Fonteferreidae minutissima is exceptionally small, with a body length of 0.75 MM.
- ›A distinctive feature is the presence of hairs on the tegulum, a rare trait in spiders.
Portugal
Hairs Present On the Tegulum
About Fonteferreidae
What is Known
The family Fonteferreidae is a taxonomic classification within the order Araneae, currently recognized to contain a single species, Fonteferrea minutissima. This spider is notable for its diminutive size and a unique anatomical feature. The family and its sole species were described in 2023 by Jörg Wunderlich, based on a single male specimen discovered in the Algarve region of southern Portugal.
Description and Distinguishing Features
Fonteferrea minutissima is characterized by its extremely small body length, measuring approximately 0.75 mm. A key distinguishing characteristic of this species, and thus its family, is the presence of hairs on the tegulum, a part of the male spider's pedipalp. This feature is exceptionally rare among spiders, making it a significant identifying trait.
Taxonomy and Future Research
The classification of Fonteferreidae is currently under some discussion. Later research by Lopardo et al. in 2026 suggested that the single known specimen is immature and lacks definitive unique features, leading them to classify the family, genus, and species as nomina dubia. Resolution of this taxonomic status awaits the discovery of adult individuals. Wunderlich speculated that further species might be found in tropical Africa, drawing parallels with the family Synaphridae, which was initially found in southern Europe before being discovered in Madagascar.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fonteferreidae?
Fonteferreidae is a taxonomic family of araneoid spiders that currently contains only one described species, Fonteferreidae minutissima. It is known from a single specimen discovered in Portugal.
Where was Fonteferreidae discovered?
The only known specimen of Fonteferreidae minutissima was found in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. The generic name references a locality called Fonte Ferrea in the Faro District.
How large is Fonteferreidae minutissima?
Fonteferreidae minutissima is an extremely small spider. Its body length is recorded as 0.75 mm, making it one of the smallest known spider species.
What makes Fonteferreidae minutissima distinctive?
This species is notable for having hairs present on its tegulum, which is a characteristic found in very few spider species. This feature contributes to its unique identification.
Is Fonteferreidae a recognized family?
While described, the family, genus, and species have been regarded as nomina dubia by some researchers due to the specimen being immature and lacking definitive distinguishing features. Further discovery of adult individuals is needed for full resolution.