Elevation to species level and redescription of Xysticus alpinus Kulczyński, 1887 stat. n. (Araneae, Thomisidae)

Zootaxa. 2018 Oct 16;4500(2):271-280. doi: 10.11646/zootaxa.4500.2.7.

Abstract

Xysticus alpinus Kulczyński, 1887 stat. n. from Central-Eastern Alps, previously considered a subspecies of X. lanio C. L. Koch, 1835, is analyzed in detail. Redescription of both sexes and illustrations of habitus and genitalia are provided. A careful comparison with the nominal species is carried out revealing clear differences in morphology and habitat preferences. In light of this evidence, its elevation to species level is proposed.

Keywords: Araneae, Alps, Arachnida, endemic species, scree, taxonomy.

MeSH terms

  • Animal Distribution*
  • Animals
  • Ecosystem
  • Female
  • Male
  • Spiders*