Ischnothyreus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ischnothyreus |
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| Eye pattern of I. browni | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Subphylum: | Chelicerata |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Araneae |
| Infraorder: | Araneomorphae |
| Family: | Oonopidae |
| Genus: | Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 |
| Species | |
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See text |
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| Diversity | |
| 19 species | |
Ischnothyreus is a group of very tiny spiders, often called "goblin spiders." They are usually between 1.25 and 2.25 millimeters long. To give you an idea, the smallest ones are about the size of a grain of sand, and the largest are still smaller than a sesame seed!
These spiders have six eyes. Some male Ischnothyreus spiders, like I. peltifer and I. omus, have a unique little knob or hook at the base of their fangs. Scientists are still studying what these hooks are for, but they might help the spiders catch their prey or be used during mating.
Contents
What Are Ischnothyreus Spiders?
Ischnothyreus spiders belong to a family called Oonopidae. This family is known for having many small, often reddish-brown spiders. They are found in many parts of the world, especially in warmer climates.
Where Do They Live?
Ischnothyreus spiders live in various places around the globe. Many species are found in Australia, especially in Queensland. Others live in places like China, Borneo, Sri Lanka, and even parts of Central America and the Caribbean. They often live in leaf litter or under rocks, where they can hunt for other tiny creatures.
How Many Species Are There?
There are many different kinds of Ischnothyreus spiders. Scientists have identified over 70 species! Each species has its own unique features and lives in specific areas. Some examples include:
- Ischnothyreus aculeatus from Sumatra and the Philippines
- Ischnothyreus auritus from China
- Ischnothyreus browni from Costa Rica
- Ischnothyreus peltifer found in the United States, Panama, and Hawaii
- Ischnothyreus rex from Borneo
Scientists are always discovering new species and learning more about these fascinating tiny spiders.
Images for kids
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Eye pattern of I. browni
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Hooks on fangs of I. peltifer
See also
In Spanish: Ischnothyreus para niños
 | May Edward Chinn |
 | Rebecca Cole |
 | Alexa Canady |
 | Dorothy Lavinia Brown |
