| Anansi natalensis | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Subphylum: | Chelicerata |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Araneae |
| Infraorder: | Araneomorphae |
| Family: | Mimetidae |
| Genus: | Anansi |
| Species: | A. natalensis |
| Binomial name | |
| Anansi natalensis (Lawrence, 1938) | |
| Synonyms | |
| |
Anansi natalensis, commonly known as the Anansi pirate spider [1] , is a species of pirate spider in the family Mimetidae. It is endemic to South Africa. [2]
The species was first described by R. F. Lawrence in 1938 as Mimetus natalensis from specimens collected in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. [3] In 2017, Benavides, Giribet and Hormiga transferred it to the newly erected genus Anansi based on molecular phylogenetic analysis and morphological characteristics that distinguished it from true Mimetus species. [4]
Anansi natalensis shares the characteristic features of its genus, including four dorsal abdominal humps bearing specialized thick bristles (macrosetae) at their tips. The chelicerae are approximately 1.4 times longer than the clypeus width, proportionally shorter than in its congeners. The opisthosoma is dark brown and approximately as long as it is wide, distinguishing it from other Anansi species which have more elongated, lighter-colored abdomens. [4]
In males, both pedipalpal tibial macrosetae are approximately half the size of the cymbium, unlike A. luki and A. insidiator where one macroseta is significantly longer. Females have an epigyne that projects posteriorly and is as long as wide, in contrast to the other species where it is twice as long as wide. The spermathecae are spherical rather than oval. [4] [1]
Anansi natalensis is a South African endemic with a wide distribution across seven provinces. It has been recorded from the Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, and Western Cape provinces, at elevations ranging from 5 to 1,732 meters above sea level. The species occupies all biomes in South Africa except the Desert and Succulent Karoo biomes. [1]
The spider is commonly found in agricultural areas including avocado orchards, citrus groves, cotton fields, and pine plantations, where it preys on other spiders. It has also been recorded from numerous protected areas including the Kruger National Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and various nature reserves throughout its range. [1]
Anansi natalensis is a free-living, arboreal spider that specializes in preying on other spiders. It is typically found on vegetation where adequate prey is available. [1]
The species is assessed as Least Concern in South Africa due to its wide geographical range, ability to utilize agricultural areas, and presence in at least ten protected areas. No significant threats have been identified. [1]