Psilochorus rockefelleri
This record describes Psilochorus rockefelleri (species). Recorded family: Pholcidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Specimens may be distinguished by: males spur short and wide, curving inward and pointed in dorsal view (Fig. 138), spur is located on the proximal half of the chelicerae and is equal to or less than half of the cheliceral length (Fig. 139), procursus tip squared off with a dorsal step (Fig. 142) epigynum with two prominent ridges on the MEP which are as wide as tall (Fig. 145), narrow PEP projection (Fig. 144)....This species was the most variable in the development of the genitalic features. The retrolateral tip of the bulb apophysis was found to occasionally curve ventrally making it difficult to see. Spurs of males were found which were: long and narrow, very thick and bulbous, represented as mere bumps, or were absent. Several were found with the spur on each chelicerae being of a different shape. Females varied in the development of the triangular bulge on the MEP. In some females the bulge would not be visible. No other species was this variable and the above mentioned diagnostics should be used cautiously. As indicated before, multiple specimens may be needed for a positive identification .
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Arizona, New Mexico .
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Psilochorus rockefelleri. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
As of 2023, 51,673 spider species in 136 families have been recorded, though an estimated 150,000 species exist. Spiders rank 7th in total species diversity among all organism orders. Only 0.5% of spider species pose any risk to human health.
Ecological role of the group
Spider venom contains complex peptides with diverse pharmacological activities, making them valuable for drug development research. Spiders produce up to 7 types of silk from specialized glands. Spider silk genes have been inserted into mammals and plants for biotech applications.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The global spider community kills an estimated 400-800 million tons of prey annually (2017 study). Spiders provide billions of dollars in natural pest control for agriculture. Spider silk is 5× stronger than steel of the same diameter, driving a biomaterials research industry.
Recorded sources for this group: World Spider Catalog, PNAS, Nature, ScienceDirect. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psilochorus rockefelleri
What is Psilochorus rockefelleri?
Psilochorus rockefelleri is a species in the family Pholcidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Psilochorus rockefelleri?
~2.5-3.0 mm total length .
How do you identify Psilochorus rockefelleri?
Specimens may be distinguished by: males spur short and wide, curving inward and pointed in dorsal view (Fig. 138), spur is located on the proximal half of the chelicerae and is equal to or less than half of the cheliceral length (Fig. 139), procursus tip squared off with a dorsal step (Fig. 142) epigynum with two prominent ridges on the MEP which are as wide as tall (Fig. 145), narrow PEP projection (Fig. 144)....This species was the most variable in the development of the genitalic features. The retrolateral tip of the bulb apophysis was found to occasionally curve ventrally making it difficult to see. Spurs of males were found which were: long and narrow, very thick and bulbous, represented as mere bumps, or were absent. Several were found with the spur on each chelicerae being of a different shape. Females varied in the development of the triangular bulge on the MEP. In some females the bulge would not be visible. No other species was this variable and the above mentioned diagnostics should be used cautiously. As indicated before, multiple specimens may be needed for a positive identification .
Where is Psilochorus rockefelleri found?
Range: Arizona, New Mexico .