FAUNA OF NZ 44 : Lycosidae

Discover the fascinating world of the Fauna of New Zealand with the comprehensive guide, 'FAUNA OF NZ 44: Lycosidae'. This expertly crafted volume showcases the diverse family of Lycosidae, commonly known as wolf spiders, which comprises over 2200 species globally, with 27 unique species identified within New Zealand's varied ecosystems. Richly illustrated with habital images, structural illustrations, and distribution maps, this paperback edition published by Manaaki Whenua Press is an essential resource for arachnologists, students, and nature enthusiasts alike. Delve into the intricacies of New Zealand’s endemic wolf spider species, where habitat specificity is paramount—from mountain screes to lush forest floors. Discover intriguing behavioral patterns, such as the nurturing of spherical egg sacs by female wolf spiders, and explore the ecological importance of Anoteropsis hilaris as a bioindicator for organophosphate contamination. With detailed descriptions of genera, species, and their geographical distributions, this publication not only enhances your understanding of New Zealand’s rich fauna but also presents a significant phylogenetic analysis of the Anoteropsis genus. Whether you're a budding entomologist or simply curious about natural biodiversity, 'FAUNA OF NZ 44: Lycosidae' is a must-have for your collection.

Author: C Vink Publisher: Manaaki Whenua Press
Bind: paperback

Pages: 94
Publication Date: 28-02-2014

The family Lycosidae (wolf spiders) has more than 2200 known species that are found worldwide, especially in open habitats. Twenty-seven species are found in New Zealand, two of which are introduced, while the remaining twenty-five species are endemic to New Zealand. In this significant new work, the twenty-seven species are revised with one new genus and fourteen new species described.



Wolf spiders are easily recognised by the carrying of the spherical egg sac behind the adult female and the subsequent transport of the young on her abdomen. Like most lycosid species, New Zealand wolf spiders are habitat specific and are found in mountain screes, riverbeds, beaches, tussock grasslands, forest, swamps, and marshes. The most commonly seen species, Anoteropsis hilaris, has been investigated as a possible bioindicator and biomarker for organophosphate insecticide contamination, and is also thought to be a beneficial predator of insect pests.



This Fauna contribution contains descriptions of all genera and species, with information on synonymy, type data, geographical distribution, and subfamilial status. Habitus images of adults, illustrations of important structural features, and distribution maps are provided, and a key to adults is given. In addition, a phylogenetic analysis examining the relationships of species in the genus Anoteropsis is presented and contains significant phylogenetic structure. This is the first issue of the series to cover spiders, and includes a 16-page section in colour of the wolf spider species.