Family SPARASSIDAE Bertkau, 1872
Huntsman Spiders
Compiler and date details
30 March 2006 - Valerie Todd Davies (1984, including the Lycosidae by R.J. McKay); B.J. Richardson & Marek Zabka (Salticidae); Robert J. Raven (2006, updated and expanded); Nephila updated May 2008
Introduction
Amongst the largest of Australia's spiders, the Sparassidae inspire more fear than many other spiders. Their claw tufts and flattened profile allow them to scurry sideways out of our peripheral vision, which behaviour has been attributed to causing a number of road accidents.
Diagnosis
Typically large spiders with laterigrade legs, dense scopulae and claw tufts, but no strong paired spines on the ventral tibiae; the distal edge of the pedal metatarsi forms three lobes or triangles. Sparianthidinae have the spinnerets extended as if an additional segment is present.
History of changes
| Published | As part of group | Action Date | Action Type | Compiler(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15-Oct-2020 | 20-Jun-2012 | MODIFIED | ||
| 12-Feb-2010 | (import) |