Hexura facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hexura |
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| H. picea | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Subphylum: | Chelicerata |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Araneae |
| Infraorder: | Mygalomorphae |
| Family: | Antrodiaetidae |
| Genus: | Hexura Simon, 1884 |
| Type species | |
| H. picea Simon, 1884
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Hexura is a special group, or genus, of spiders. These spiders are known as folding trapdoor spiders. They live in the United States.
A scientist named Eugène Louis Simon first described Hexura in 1884. As of 2019, there are two known species in this group. These are H. picea and H. rothi. Both species are found in the USA. Scientists first thought Hexura belonged to a different spider family. But in 2019, they moved it to the Antrodiaetidae family.
Contents
What are Trapdoor Spiders?
Trapdoor spiders are fascinating creatures. They get their name from how they live. These spiders dig burrows in the ground. Then, they build a special "trapdoor" to cover the entrance. This trapdoor is often made of soil, plants, and silk. It helps them hide from predators. It also helps them surprise their prey.
How They Hunt
Trapdoor spiders are ambush hunters. They wait patiently inside their burrows. They hold onto the trapdoor with their legs. When an insect or other small creature walks by, the spider feels the vibrations. Then, it quickly opens the trapdoor. It rushes out to grab its prey. After catching its meal, the spider pulls it back into the burrow. It then closes the trapdoor again.
Their Homes Underground
The burrows of trapdoor spiders can be quite deep. They are lined with silk to keep the walls from collapsing. The silk also makes the burrow a cozy home. Some spiders have side chambers in their burrows. These might be used for storing food or as escape routes.
Where Hexura Spiders Live
The two species of Hexura spiders live in the United States. They prefer specific types of habitats. These spiders are often found in damp, forested areas. They need soil that is suitable for digging their burrows. Their hidden lifestyle means they are not often seen by people.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Like other spiders, Hexura spiders reproduce by laying eggs. The female spider usually lays her eggs inside her burrow. She protects them until they hatch. Young spiders, called spiderlings, will then leave the burrow. They will find their own places to dig new homes. The exact details of the Hexura life cycle are still being studied. However, it is similar to other trapdoor spiders. They grow through several molts, shedding their outer skin as they get bigger.
See also
In Spanish: Hexura para niños
