Philodromus brachycephalus

Philodromus brachycephalus is a species of spider in the family Philodromidae. It is commonly known as the spotted running spider.

Distribution

Philodromus brachycephalus is known from Tanzania and South Africa. In South Africa, it is known from four provinces including six protected areas, with an altitudinal range of 48-1730 m above sea level.

Habitat and ecology

The species are free-living plant dwellers sampled from vegetation. The species has been sampled from the Grassland, Savanna and Thicket biomes, and was also sampled from avocado and macadamia orchards.

Conservation

Philodromus brachycephalus is listed as Least Concern by the South African National Biodiversity Institute due to its wide range. The species is protected in six protected areas.

Etymology

The specific name means "short-headed" in Greek.

Taxonomy

The species was originally described by Lawrence from Pietermaritzburg in South Africa. The genus has not been revised and the species is known only from the female.