Zelotes lasalanus
This record describes Zelotes lasalanus (species). Recorded family: Gnaphosidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Palp Epigynum
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Gnaphosidae (Ground Spiders)
- Genus
- Zelotes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Variety of habitats from mesquite to prairies up to 9700 feet in elevation.
Geographic Range
Western North America; Alberta to Mexico
Seasonal Activity
Mature males--mid-March to October; mature females--late February to late October.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Zelotes lasalanus. 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.
Photos of Zelotes lasalanus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Chad Heins
Frequently Asked Questions About Zelotes lasalanus
How do you identify Zelotes lasalanus?
Palp Epigynum
Where is Zelotes lasalanus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Variety of habitats from mesquite to prairies up to 9700 feet in elevation. |
| Range | Western North America; Alberta to Mexico |
When is Zelotes lasalanus active?
Zelotes lasalanus: seasonal activity - Mature males--mid-March to October; mature females--late February to late October..