Diores recurvatus
Diores recurvatus is a species of spider in the family Zodariidae. It occurs in southern Africa and is commonly known as the Settlers Igloo spider.
Distribution
Diores recurvatus is found in South Africa and Zimbabwe. In South Africa, it has been recorded from five provinces: the Free State, Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West. The species was originally described from Settlers in Limpopo province.
Habitat
The species inhabits the Grassland and Savanna biomes at altitudes ranging from 883 to 1758 metres above sea level. It has also been sampled from cotton fields.
Description
Males of Diores recurvatus have a total length of 4.68 mm, while females measure 5.00 mm. The carapace is yellow and slightly orange in the cephalic area, with the sternum being pale yellow. Males have a yellowish-brown scutum on the opisthosoma surrounded by sepia coloration, with the sides and venter being pale. Females have basically similar coloration but are generally darker overall.
Ecology
Diores recurvatus are free-living ground-dwellers that have been sampled from grassland and savanna environments as well as agricultural areas.
Conservation
The species is listed as Least Concern due to its wide geographical range. It has been sampled from eight protected areas, including Nylsvley Nature Reserve, Blouberg Nature Reserve, and Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve.