Since there is very little information on the different Loxosceles species, and my last write up about them was appreciated, I figured I would do another.
The species that will be discussed today is Loxosceles arizonica. This species has been described as being one which is found at both higher elevations in Arizona, as well as being restricted to areas where saguaro cacti are present (Gertsch & Ennik, 1983). This species shares ranges with Loxosceles apachea, sabina, and deserta also. Identifying these as arizonica was done by utilizing range maps and appearance descriptions, which state that sabina and deserta generally lack pattern on the carapace.
I observed this species in a variety of habitats. I observed them in very moist, riparian habitat as well as drier, rocky habitat. This species was found in similar habitat that I have found other Loxosceles in. They are found most commonly within and underneath wood and cactus parts. They often were found in areas that termites occupy, as well as under the same objects as other spider species. Compared to Loxosceles deserta which seems to exhibit more synanthropic characteristics, this species tends to be found away from human habitation.
Examples of microhabitat
Additionally, compared to my observations of Loxosceles deserta, I found only what appear to be adult females. I found no evidence of egg sacs either. I believe that females of this genus are more long lasting than other true spiders and may survive several seasons to breed.
Photos of specimens
The species that will be discussed today is Loxosceles arizonica. This species has been described as being one which is found at both higher elevations in Arizona, as well as being restricted to areas where saguaro cacti are present (Gertsch & Ennik, 1983). This species shares ranges with Loxosceles apachea, sabina, and deserta also. Identifying these as arizonica was done by utilizing range maps and appearance descriptions, which state that sabina and deserta generally lack pattern on the carapace.
I observed this species in a variety of habitats. I observed them in very moist, riparian habitat as well as drier, rocky habitat. This species was found in similar habitat that I have found other Loxosceles in. They are found most commonly within and underneath wood and cactus parts. They often were found in areas that termites occupy, as well as under the same objects as other spider species. Compared to Loxosceles deserta which seems to exhibit more synanthropic characteristics, this species tends to be found away from human habitation.
Examples of microhabitat
Additionally, compared to my observations of Loxosceles deserta, I found only what appear to be adult females. I found no evidence of egg sacs either. I believe that females of this genus are more long lasting than other true spiders and may survive several seasons to breed.
Photos of specimens
