Funnel web spider? id

Lesinlondon · #1 (**permalink**) 14-05-2009, 01:36 AM

I lifted a newt box and found this very large spider. It had built a funnel web in one corner. is it Malthonica pagana?

Venger · #2 (**permalink**) 14-05-2009, 02:22 AM

No, not in this country

Not sure when the split happened (between Tegenaria and Malthonica - it use to be T.pagana and it use to be M.silvestris at one point!, so things keep switching)

Anyway - it's very hard to tell with Tegenaria spp - which I think this is, you need a microscope to make 100% confirmation - even with the help of the sternum markings (not 100% accurate but helpful) I think you're dealing with one of the main 3. Either Tegenaria domestica, T.atrica or T.gigantea

don't suppose you could give the size (excluding legs please)

Lesinlondon · #3 (**permalink**) 14-05-2009, 01:36 PM

Thanks Venger. Size, ooooh, well I just noticed BIG because of the legs. To guess, well 3/4 inch for body. I thought it looked like one of these Agelenidae, Araneomorph funnel-web spiders photos and info . As I lifted the box it was in the funnel, but quickly rushed out.

Venger · #4 (**permalink**) 14-05-2009, 01:43 PM

Yes - but that one had annulated legs (ringed) and isn't located in this country

Like I said you can't ID these guys from visual patterning - you need to study either the palps (male) or epigyne (female) - and even then it can be tough.

Lesinlondon · #5 (**permalink**) 14-05-2009, 02:13 PM

I noticed the annulated legs. Thought they might be specific to the sex. My naming was just a guess, and the closest looking spider I found. Not in this country, oh, I didn't notice that, site said "European". I know it is very difficult to identify spiders with certainty from a picture, I used to (30 years ago) be a spider recorder for Essex. And I know the namings change. You gave me some suggestions which, if it wasn't Malthonica pagana, was what I was after. My first thoughts were that it looked like a Tegenaria species.