Afrarchaea ansieae
Afrarchaea ansieae is a species of spider of the genus Afrarchaea. It is endemic to South Africa.
Etymology
The species is named after South African arachnologist Ansie Dippenaar-Schoeman.Distribution
Afrarchaea ansieae is known only from its type locality in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. The species has been recorded from Hlabisa in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, specifically from the Eastern Shores Nature Reserve.Habitat
The species inhabits grassland environments within the Indian Ocean Coastal Belt Biome. It has been collected from litter at the base of grass tussocks.Description
Afrarchaea ansieae displays the typical characteristics of the genus Afrarchaea, with a greatly elevated cephalic region and elongated chelicerae. Both males and females are known for this species.Conservation status
Afrarchaea ansieae is classified as Data Deficient by the South African National Biodiversity Institute. The species has an extremely restricted range, at an elevation of 5 metres above sea level.The species may occur in additional sites within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, but further sampling is required to determine its true range and population status. The species is currently protected within the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, Eastern Shores Nature Reserve.