Steatoda truncata explained

Steatoda truncata is a species of Theridiidae that is endemic to New Zealand.^[1]

Taxonomy

This species was described in 1888 by Arthur Urquhart from female specimens.^[2] It was most recently revised in 1994. The holotype is stored in Otago Museum.

Description

The male is recorded at 3.6mm in length whereas the female is 3.2 - 4.9mm. The carapace is coloured blackish. The legs are yellowish brown. The abdomen is blackish with white markings.

Distribution and habitat

This species is widespread throughout New Zealand. It is typically found under stones along rivers or under logs in coastal areas.

Conservation status

Under the New Zealand Threat Classification System, this species is listed as "Not Threatened".^[3]

Notes and References

1. Hann, S. W. (1994). Descriptions of four Steatoda species (Araneae, Theridiidae) found in New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Zoology 21: 225-238.
2. Urquhart, A. T. (1888). On new species of Araneida. Transactions and Proceedings of the New Zealand Institute 20: 109-125, pl. 11
3. 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.