Psilodercidae
Psilodercidae·Psilodercidae·Details on the coloration of Psilodercidae spiders are not provided.·https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b2/Psilocybe_semilanceata_1.jpg/220px-Psilocybe_semilanceata_1.jpg
Psilodercidae is a family of spiders first described as a subfamily and later elevated to family rank. They are distinguished by the unique arrangement of their six eyes, the lack of leg bristles, and specific bristles on the cymbium, along with multiple pairs of spermathecae in females. This family remains relatively unstudied, with ongoing research potentially leading to revisions in its classification.
Key Facts
- ›First described as a subfamily of Ochyroceratidae in 1951.
- ›Elevated to family rank by J. Wunderlich in 2008.
- ›Characterized by a distinctive "segestriid positioning" of their six eyes.
- ›Lack leg bristles.
- ›Possess strong apical bristles on the cymbium.
- ›Females typically have several pairs of spermathecae.
Segestriid Positioning of Six Eyes, Absence of Leg Bristles, Strong Apical Bristles On the Cymbium, Several Pairs of Spermathecae In Females
About Psilodercidae
Psilodercidae represents a family within the spider order Araneae. This taxonomic group was initially established as a subfamily by Machado in 1951, belonging to the family Ochyroceratidae. Later, in 2008, J. Wunderlich reclassified it, elevating it to the status of a distinct family.
Key Characteristics
Spiders within the Psilodercidae family can be identified by several distinctive morphological traits. A notable feature is the "segestriid positioning" of their six eyes, which refers to a specific arrangement. Furthermore, these spiders are characterized by the absence of leg bristles, a feature that sets them apart. They also possess strong apical bristles on the cymbium, a part of the male pedipalp. In females, a significant identifying characteristic is the presence of several pairs of spermathecae, which are organs involved in sperm storage.
Taxonomy and Research
As of January 2026, the Psilodercidae family is recognized to include eleven genera and a total of 224 species. However, it is important to note that this family remains relatively unstudied. The scientific community anticipates that ongoing research and new discoveries may lead to further revisions in its classification and understanding. Wunderlich himself commented that the genus Psiloderces is likely too broad and could benefit from being split into smaller, more distinct groupings.
Further Information
More detailed information regarding the habitat, diet, behavior, and specific geographical distribution of Psilodercidae spiders is not extensively documented in current scientific literature. Citizen science observations, such as those available through iNaturalist, may offer supplementary data as it becomes available.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Psilodercidae?
Psilodercidae is a family of spiders. It was initially recognized as a subfamily before being established as a distinct family.
How can Psilodercidae spiders be identified?
Key identification features include the specific arrangement of their six eyes, the absence of leg bristles, and the presence of strong apical bristles on the cymbium. Females also possess multiple pairs of spermathecae.
How many genera and species are in the Psilodercidae family?
As of January 2026, the Psilodercidae family encompasses eleven genera and a total of 224 species. This number is subject to change as research progresses.
Is Psilodercidae well-studied?
The family Psilodercidae is considered relatively unstudied. Further research is anticipated to provide more comprehensive information and potentially lead to reclassifications.