Lygromma anops facts for kids

Lygromma anops is a very special spider. It is one of only three known spiders in its large group, called Gnaphosoidea, that does not have eyes! It is also one of only two known troglobites, which means it lives its whole life in dark caves. You can find this unique spider in lava caves on Isla Santa Cruz in the amazing Galápagos Islands.

About This Eyeless Spider

This spider is quite small. Adult male L. anops spiders are about 3.4 millimeters long. That's about the size of a tiny ant! Since it lives in caves, it doesn't need eyes. Many animals that live in dark places lose their eyesight over time.

Where it Lives

Lygromma anops makes its home in the dark lava caves of Isla Santa Cruz. This island is part of the Galápagos Islands, which are famous for their unique animals. These spiders might also live in tiny cracks and spaces that connect different caves. It's possible they use these small tunnels to move between caves.

Spider Family Tree

Scientists believe L. anops is closely related to a few other spiders from Venezuela. These include L. senoculatum, L. valencianum, and L. huberti.

However, another blind cave spider, Lygromma gertschi from Jamaica, is not a close relative. Even though both spiders live in caves and cannot see, they are from different branches of the spider family tree.

See also

In Spanish: Lygromma anops para niños