Physoglenidae
The hunting strategies employed by Physoglenidae spiders are not described in the text.
Physoglenidae is a family of araneomorph spiders, initially described as a subfamily of Pholcidae by Alexander Petrunkevitch in 1928. After a period within the Synotaxidae family, a 2016 study confirmed its status as a distinct clade. This family encompasses thirteen genera and a total of 72 species.
Key Facts
- ›Physoglenidae is a family of araneomorph spiders.
- ›It was first described in 1928 by Alexander Petrunkevitch.
- ›The family was formerly considered a subfamily of Pholcidae.
- ›A 2016 study established Physoglenidae as a distinct taxonomic clade.
- ›As of January 2026, the family comprises thirteen genera.
- ›There are 72 known species within the Physoglenidae family.
About Physoglenidae
What is Physoglenidae?
Physoglenidae is a family of araneomorph spiders, a group characterized by their sideways-moving fangs. The family was first formally described by the arachnologist Alexander Petrunkevitch in 1928. At the time of its initial description, Physoglenidae was classified as a subfamily within the larger family Pholcidae, commonly known as cellar spiders.
Taxonomic History and Current Status
Over time, the classification of Physoglenidae underwent changes. It was subsequently moved to the family Synotaxidae. However, a significant taxonomic revision occurred in 2016. A study conducted during that year provided evidence showing that Physoglenidae constituted a distinct evolutionary lineage, establishing it as a separate and independent clade. This recognition elevated it from its previous subfamily status to its current standing as a distinct family.
Genera and Species
As of January 2026, the Physoglenidae family is recognized to encompass a considerable diversity of spiders. The family currently includes thirteen distinct genera. Across these genera, a total of 72 species have been identified and documented. Further research may continue to expand the known diversity within this spider family.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of spiders belong to the Physoglenidae family?
The Physoglenidae family consists of araneomorph spiders. These are a large infraorder of spiders, distinguished by their fangs, which move sideways towards each other, crossing in a pincer-like action.
When was the Physoglenidae family first identified?
The Physoglenidae family was first described in 1928 by the arachnologist Alexander Petrunkevitch. At that time, it was classified as a subfamily within the Pholcidae family.
What was the previous classification of Physoglenidae spiders?
Before being recognized as a distinct family, Physoglenidae spiders were initially placed as a subfamily of Pholcidae. They were later moved to the family Synotaxidae before their current independent classification.
How has the classification of Physoglenidae changed over time?
The classification of Physoglenidae has evolved significantly. It began as a subfamily of Pholcidae, was later reassigned to Synotaxidae, and a 2016 study confirmed its status as a separate and distinct clade.
How many genera and species are currently recognized within Physoglenidae?
As of January 2026, the Physoglenidae family includes thirteen genera. In total, there are 72 species documented within these genera.