Anoteropsis blesti explained

Anoteropsis blesti is a species of Lycosidae that is endemic to New Zealand.^[1]

Taxonomy

This species was described in 2002 by Cor Vink from male and female specimens. The holotype is stored in the Lincoln University Entomology Research Collection.

Description

The male is recorded at 5.0-7.6mm in length whereas the female is 5.9-12.5mm. The carapace is coloured orange black with black markings dorsally. The legs are yellow brown with blackish markings. The abdomen is orange brown with a variety of markings dorsally. It is most reliably distinguished from other Anoteropsis by the morphology of its genitalia.

Distribution and habitat

This species is only known from the northern section of New Zealand's North Island. It typically occurs along rivers.

Conservation status

Under the New Zealand Threat Classification System, this species is listed as "Naturally Uncommon" with the qualifier of "Range Restricted".^[2]

Notes and References

1. Vink, C. (2002). Lycosidae (Arachnida: Araneae). Fauna of New Zealand 44: 1-94
2. Sirvid . P. J. . Vink . C. J. . Fitzgerald . B. M. . Wakelin . M. D. . Rolfe . J. . Michel . P. . 2020-01-01 . Conservation status of New Zealand Araneae (spiders), 2020 . New Zealand Threat Classification Series . English . 34 . 1–37.