Pycnothelidae
Pycnothelidae·Pycnothelidae·No details regarding the coloration of Pycnothelidae spiders are provided.·https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f1/A_mygalomorph_spider_burrow_entrance_in_the_Andes_of_Ecuador.jpg/1024px-A_mygalomorph_spider_burrow_entrance_in_the_Andes_of_Ecuador.jpg
Pycnothelidae is a family of mygalomorph spiders first formally described in 1917. After a period of being classified as a subfamily, it was reinstated as a distinct family in 2020. The family is primarily distributed across South America, with a smaller presence in East and southern Africa.
Key Facts
- ›Pycnothelidae is a family of mygalomorph spiders.
- ›It was first described in 1917 and reinstated as a family in 2020.
- ›The majority of its genera are found in South America.
- ›Two genera of Pycnothelidae are found in East and southern Africa.
- ›As of January 2026, the family comprises fifteen genera and 144 species.
South America, East Africa, Southern Africa
About Pycnothelidae
What is Pycnothelidae?
Pycnothelidae represents a distinct family within the order Araneae, specifically belonging to the infraorder Mygalomorphae. This taxonomic classification was first established in 1917. The family's status has seen revisions, initially being demoted to a subfamily within the Theraphosidae (tarantulas) or other related families before being re-elevated to its own family status in 2020. This reinstatement signifies a recognition of its unique evolutionary lineage and morphological characteristics.
Distribution and Diversity
The geographical range of Pycnothelidae spiders is primarily concentrated in South America, where the majority of its genera are found. Complementing this significant presence, two genera have been identified in East and southern Africa, indicating a broader biogeographical distribution. As of January 2026, the family encompasses a considerable diversity, comprising fifteen distinct genera and a total of 144 described species. Further research into these genera and species continues to expand our understanding of this spider family.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of spiders are Pycnothelidae?
Pycnothelidae spiders belong to the mygalomorph infraorder. This group includes many primitive spider families, often characterized by their two pairs of large fangs that move parallel to each other.
When was the family Pycnothelidae established?
The family Pycnothelidae was first described and established in 1917. It later underwent a taxonomic revision, being downgraded to a subfamily before being restored to family status in 2020.
Where are Pycnothelidae spiders found?
The geographic distribution of Pycnothelidae spiders is predominantly in South America. However, two of its genera are also found in East and southern Africa.
How many species are in the Pycnothelidae family?
As of January 2026, the Pycnothelidae family is recognized to include 144 species. These species are organized across fifteen different genera within the family.