Herpyllus ecclesiasticus
Eastern Parson Spider | |
---|---|
Herpyllus ecclesiasticus[1] | |
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Arthropoda |
Class: | Arachnida |
Order: | Araneae |
Superfamily: | Gnaphosoidea |
Family: | Gnaphosidae |
Genus: | Herpyllus |
Species: | H. ecclesiasticus |
Binomial name | |
Herpyllus ecclesiasticus Hentz, 1832 | |
Synonyms | |
Drassus vasifer |
The spider species Herpyllus ecclesiasticus is commonly called the eastern parson spider, after the abdominal markings resembling an old-style cravat worn by clergy in the 18th century. It is mainly found in Central USA, with finds stretching from North Carolina to southern Alberta, Canada.[2]
Although this spider presents a startling appearance, living indoors as it frequently does, it is not considered harmful. However, some people may have allergic reactions to their bites.[3] This spider has shown solely cursorial hunting behaviour, as opposed to web-spinning methods of prey capture, when reared in lab conditions.[4]
References
- ↑ Philip N. Cohen Eastern Parson Spider Herpyllus ecclesiasticus
- ↑ Nearctic Spider Database
- ↑
- ↑ Struger-Kalkman, pers. obs.