Lycosid for id

mickmassie · #1 (**permalink**) 27-09-2009, 09:01 PM

I suspect that this may be a mature male Alopecosa puverulenta, but would like to check that the front legs are right and that I should expect mature males at this time of year. Found recently on a Surrey heathland site.

Help appreciated. M.

mickmassie · #2 (**permalink**) 28-09-2009, 07:25 PM

I am now homing in on Alopecosa barbipes although the abdomen pattern is not quite convincing. Legs, season and habitat correspond. I'd still appreciate any comments. M.

Geoff F · #3 (**permalink**) 28-09-2009, 07:37 PM

Best wait for an expert. But in the meantime, I have consulted 'Mr. Roberts' and the illustration does appear to fit A. barbipes, with the sideways extension to the cardinal mark looking just right.

The dark areas on the fore legs also match just right.

Heathland and early autumn also fit. They are a bit localised but I don't know about your area so it may be worth doing a location check.

Otherwise, I agree with your suggestion.