Strong-armed Tapir Ground Spider
This species shows the transverse light-coloured abdominal bands typical of other Hitobia spiders. However, unlike other Hitobia, legs I of this species are highly modified, with grossly swollen femora. patellae and tibiae. Tibiae I are seemingly enlarged further with long ventral spines. Femora II are also thickened near their respective bases. The species is probably new to science, as none of the documented species of Hitobia possess such uniquely modified legs I and II.
| Length | ♀3 mm; ♂ unknown |
| Distribution | Singapore. |
| Habitat | Forest undergrowth. |
| Biology | From time to time, the spider may suddenly switch its gait to one that suggests ant mimicry: while moving on legs II, III and IV, it raises the first pair of legs with the swollen tibiae I, seemingly enlarged with spines, held closely together, presenting the illusion of an ant’s head. The impression is reinforced by the waving movement of the slender tarsi I and metatarsi I, possibly simulating an ant’s antennae. |
Kingdom Animalia (Animals)
Phylum Arthropoda (Arthropods)
Subphylum Chelicerata (Chelicerates)
Class Arachnida (Arachnids)
Order Araneae (Spiders)
Suborder Araneomorphae (Typical Spiders)
Singapore.