Gradungula facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gradungula |
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| Gradungula sorenseni (adult male topotype) | |
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The Gradungula sorenseni is a unique type of spider. It is the only species in its group, which is called Gradungula. This spider is famous for its very large claws on its front legs. You can only find this special spider living in New Zealand.
What's in a Name?
The name Gradungula comes from two old Latin words. The first word is gradus, which means "step". The second word is ungula, meaning "claw". So, the name describes the spider's big front leg claws, which look like they help it step. Other spiders in the same family, called Gradungulidae, also have these large claws. The second part of its name, sorenseni, honors Jack Sorensen. He was the person who first discovered this spider.
Who Discovered This Spider?
The Gradungula sorenseni spider was first officially described in 1955. A scientist named Raymond Robert Forster was the one who studied it and gave it its scientific name.
Where Does This Spider Live?
The Gradungula sorenseni spider lives in the forests of New Zealand. You can find it in the western part of the South Island. It also lives all over Stewart Island, which is south of the South Island.
