Microhexuridae
Endangered (for M. montivaga)
Microhexuridae is a genus of tiny North American spiders, notable for being the sole genus within its family. It currently comprises two described species, Microhexura idahoana and Microhexura montivaga, both exclusively found in the United States, with distinct geographic distributions across various mountain ranges.
Key Facts
- ›Microhexuridae is the only genus in its taxonomic family.
- ›The genus contains two described species: M. idahoana and M. montivaga.
- ›Both species are endemic to the United States.
- ›M. montivaga is found in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee.
- ›M. idahoana has a broader distribution in the western United States, including the Cascades, Blue Mountains, and northern Rocky Mountains.
- ›M. montivaga is considered an endangered species.
United States
About Microhexuridae
Microhexuridae is a taxonomic family of spiders that currently encompasses a single genus, Microhexura. This genus is recognized for containing tiny spiders native to North America, specifically within the United States. The family was first described by C. R. Crosby & S. C. Bishop in 1925 and is characterized by its limited number of species.
Species and Distribution
As of current scientific understanding, the genus Microhexura includes two described species: Microhexura idahoana and Microhexura montivaga. Both species are endemic to the United States, occupying distinct geographical regions. Microhexura montivaga is found in the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains, spanning parts of North Carolina and Tennessee. In contrast, Microhexura idahoana has a more widespread distribution, occurring further west in areas such as the Cascades, the Blue Mountains, and the northern Rocky Mountains. This species is also noted to inhabit old-growth forests, extending southward from Mount Rainier.
Conservation Status
Among the two species within the Microhexuridae family, Microhexura montivaga is designated as an endangered species. This status underscores the particular vulnerability of this spider and its specific habitat within the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Microhexuridae?
Microhexuridae is a genus of small spiders native to North America. It is the only genus within its taxonomic family, and it currently includes two known species.
How many species are in the Microhexuridae family?
The Microhexuridae family consists of only one genus, Microhexura, which in turn contains two described species: Microhexura idahoana and Microhexura montivaga.
Where are Microhexuridae spiders found?
Microhexuridae spiders are found exclusively in the United States. Microhexura montivaga inhabits the higher peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, while Microhexura idahoana is distributed further west in areas like the Cascades, Blue Mountains, and northern Rocky Mountains.
Is Microhexura montivaga endangered?
Yes, Microhexura montivaga is considered an endangered species. This designation highlights its vulnerable status within its specific habitat.
What distinguishes the two species of Microhexura?
The primary distinction between the two species lies in their geographic distribution. M. montivaga is restricted to the Blue Ridge Mountains, whereas M. idahoana is found more widely across western U.S. mountain ranges.