PROF. NICHOLAS MARCELLUS HENTZ. 
 The Father of American Araneotogy. 
 
AMERICAN SPIDERS 
 
 AND 
 
 THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 A NATURAL HISTORY 
 
 OP TIIE 
 
 ORBWEAVING SPIDERS OF THE UNITED STATES 
 
 WITH SPECIAL REGARD TO THEIR INDUSTRY AND HABITS. 
 
 BY 
 
 HENEY O. McOOOK, D. D., 
 
 Vice-President ok the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia; 
 
 Professor of Entomology in the Pennsylvania 
 
 Horticultural Society. 
 
 VOL. III. 
 
 WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF ORBWEAVING SPECIES AND PLATES. 
 
 PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR, 
 Academy op Natural Sciences op Philadelphia, 
 
 A. D. 1893. 
 

 
 1*77 Gc 53 
 
 AUTHOR'S EDITION. 
 
 This Edition is limited to Two Hundred and Fifty copies, of 
 which this set is 
 
 Subscription No. 
 
 Author's Signature, 
 
 THE PRESS OF 
 
 ALLEN, LANE 4 SCOTT, 
 
 PHILADELPHIA. 
 
THESE STUDIES IN NATURAL HISTORY 
 
 ARE DEDICATED TO 
 
 THE VENERATED MEMORY 
 
 OF MY FATHER, 
 
 JOHN McCOOK, M. D., 
 
 A LOVER OF NATURE, A FRIEND OF SCIENCE, 
 
 A GOOD PHYSICIAN, A SERVANT OF 
 
 HIS FELLOW MEN, 
 
 WHOSE FAITH IN THE UNSEEN 
 
 NEVER FALTERED. 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 With profound satisfaction the author gives to the scientific public the 
 third and last volume of a work which has engaged his thoughts for more 
 
 than twenty years. That he has been permitted to finish a labor 
 ^ nis e prolonged throughout so great a period, and wrought upon 
 
 amidst the many duties and burdens of a busy professional career, 
 excites earnest gratitude. The fear that he might not finish his self im- 
 posed task, and thus leave an incomplete work, has caused sore anxiety, 
 especially when, at sundry times, more or less serious illness has commanded 
 pause. Happily this apprehension is now dismissed, and the duty at last 
 ended is herewith submitted to the judgment of fellow workers in and 
 lovers of Natural History. 
 
 In the first part of the volume six chapters are taken to consider various 
 natural habits and physiological problems for which there was no space in 
 
 the two previous volumes. These topics are in the line of those 
 Scope studies in (Ecology to which the author has heretofore especially 
 ^. , e given his attention. In addition thereto, and forming indeed the 
 
 bulk of this volume, the second part thereof contains descriptions 
 of many indigenous species of Orbweavers, illustrated by thirty litho- 
 graphic plates, colored by hand from Nature. Most of these plates are 
 of Orbweavers, the group to which the author has given special syste- 
 matic study. But two plates are added, without descriptions attached 
 thereto, of representative species of the other aranead groups, especially of 
 those species whose habits have been presented in the foregoing volumes. 
 This descriptive work has been thought necessary to complete studies 
 which avowedly chiefly concerned habits and industry. The general forms, 
 colors, and proportions of spiders as they present themselves to an obser- 
 ver's eye in Nature are important to the accurate understanding of their 
 habits. One cannot appreciate in full the role which these creatures have 
 to play in Nature until he have a just conception of how they look in 
 the midst of the scenes wherein their life energies are spent. For this 
 reason it formed part of the author's original purpose to present the sub- 
 jects of his study as they appear in natural site, that his readers may have 
 acquaintance not only with their life history but with themselves. 
 
 Moreover, in studying the habits of spiders it has been necessary to 
 identify the species, and in many cases to describe them. It has seemed 
 
 (5) 
 
proper, therefore, that the M'ork thus done should be preserved to science 
 in connection with the descriptions of the animals' life history. But the 
 
 author has to admit that this part of his work grew in his 
 the°Work liands far De y° n d the bounds of his first intent, and finally 
 
 shaped itself into the resolve to publish descriptions and plates 
 not only of the Orbweavers whose habits he had described, but of all 
 accessible American species of that group. In this matter he has been 
 led along step by step, adding species to species, page to page, and plate 
 to plate, by a desire to make his work yet more and more complete. 
 Working naturalists, at least, will sympathize with and appreciate this fact. 
 This descriptive work has made the closing volume in many respects 
 the most difficult one of the series. To one who has to deal with small 
 animals, scientific description is always a laborious service. 
 Descrip- When it is impossible to mount these animals in any satisfac- 
 Work. tory wa y> as * s tne case witn spiders, and one is compelled to 
 labor with alcoholic specimens, many of which are minute and 
 mutilated, and often with unique examples in hand which may not be 
 broken up for convenient study, the ordinary difficulties are much in- 
 creased. Nevertheless, the work has not been an unpleasant one; for 
 there is a fascination about studies in classification which every true 
 naturalist has felt. Dry and uninteresting as the details usually are to the 
 general public, to the specialist they have peculiar interest. The comparison 
 of species with species and genus with genus; the task of separating on 
 this side and on that; of solving the numerous problems that are constantly 
 arising, and other duties of a like kind, bring into play some of the most 
 pleasing faculties of the intellect, and contribute largely to the enjoyment 
 of the systematic naturalist. Nevertheless, to one who can only labor at 
 odd hours, and who is thus apt to lose the connection established by long 
 and careful comparisons, the pleasure is much marred. This has been the 
 author's estate, and will add to the satisfaction which he will feel should 
 it be judged that he has wrought with reasonable accuracy. 
 
 In this connection it is proper to say that the increased cost of printing 
 text and plates made it necessary two years ago to notify the public that 
 
 the original price of ten dollars per volume, or thirty dollars 
 the Books. for tne entire set > including plates, must be increased to fifty 
 
 dollars the set. All subscribers at the original price will be 
 served with Volume III. without additional charge, but others must pay 
 the advanced price. The author feels compelled to make this statement 
 here in order to relieve himself from the painful duty of refusing requests, 
 of which some have already come, to sell the work at the first named price. 
 Even at the price now named, subscribers will receive the work at less than 
 its actual cost ; a statement which is made not in the way of complaint, 
 for which there is no reason at all; nor to excite sympathy, which is 
 neither required nor desired, but to give a plain and honest reason for a 
 
change which ought to be explained. For further business notice those 
 
 interested therein are referred to the advertisement at the close of the book. 
 
 The most agreeable part of a preface to an author is his acknowledgment 
 
 for kindly aid rendered by colaborers and friends. First of all, I express my 
 
 gratitude to Dr. George Marx, of Washington, for the friendly and 
 TVi > valuable service which he has given me throughout many years. 
 
 With a rare generosity and singleness of eye to the advancement 
 of science, he placed at my disposal the Orbweavers in his notable collection. 
 Not only so, but on all occasions he has cheerfully and freely given me the 
 benefit of his advice and judgment. He has thus laid under lasting obliga- 
 tion, not only the author, but all who are interested in his work. I have 
 also to thank others, in different parts of the country, who have contributed 
 specimens and information. Among these are Professor and Mrs. George 
 W. Peckham, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, whose joint studies of the Attidse 
 have given to Araneology some of its most attractive and valuable chapters. 
 Messrs. Orcutt, Davidson, and Blaisdell, and the late Mr. John Curtis, of 
 California ; Miss Rosa Smith, now Mrs. Eigenmann, and her mother, Mrs. 
 Louisa Smith, of San Diego, California; Professor Orson Howard, of Utah, 
 Mr. Thomas Gentry, of Philadelphia, and Messrs. Charles H. Townsend and 
 Nathan Banks, of Washington, have contributed material that has entered 
 into this work. Among European naturalists I am indebted to Mr. F. M. 
 Campbell, of Herts, England, for many courtesies; Mr. Thomas Workman, 
 of Belfast, Ireland, and Mr. Frederick Enock, of London, have sent me 
 specimens. To Professor Waldemar Wagner, of Moscow, Russia, and Mr. 
 Eugene Simon, of Paris, I am especially indebted for copies of their valu- 
 able papers and books, and for permission to engrave and use some of the 
 figures with which they are illustrated. To the veteran araneologist, Pro- 
 fessor Tamerlane Thorell, whom I gladly acknowledge as " magister," I am 
 indebted for advice from time to time rendered. 
 
 I add an expression of my obligations to one who, unhappily for the in- 
 terests of Science, no longer lives to prosecute his faithful and distinguished 
 labors, the late Count Keyserling, of Germany. His descriptions of American 
 Spiders have been of great service in determining indigenous species, and 
 many specimens personally examined and identified by him have passed 
 through my hands in the course of these studies. The posthumous volume 
 of his noble work, " Die Spinnen Amerikas," Part IV., edited by Dr. Marx, 
 and which relates to the Epeiridoe, was not issued until a large part of my 
 descriptions were already in print. For this reason some species here 
 appear as new which are described by him in his last work, and have 
 priority, inasmuch as their publication antedates my own. The names, how- 
 ever, are the same, inasmuch as the specific titles given in litteris by Count 
 Keyserling to the examples in Dr. Marx' collection have been preserved by 
 me. These discrepancies I have corrected as far as possible in the plate 
 titles. 
 
I count it a duty as well as a pleasure to place among the number of 
 those entitled to my public thanks the name of Miss Elizabeth F. Bonsall, 
 who has made the original drawings for nearly all the plates contained in 
 the atlas. Her faithful and successful work has not always been correctly 
 reproduced by lithographers and colorists, but for the most part it speaks 
 for itself in the admirable rendering from life of the species which she has 
 figured. 
 
 As the frontispiece of this volume I have printed a portrait of Professor 
 Nicholas Marcellus Hentz, M. D., who may justly be regarded as the father 
 of American Araneology. John Abbot was indeed before him in 
 Professor ^ ^j^ an( j <juring the early part of this century made per- 
 sonal studies in South Carolina and Georgia of our American 
 spider fauna. The results of these studies remain in the descriptions of 
 Walckenaer and in the beautiful manuscript drawings now preserved in 
 the Library of the British Museum of Natural History in Kensington, 
 London, and to which fuller reference is made in the pages which follow. 
 Some interesting notes upon the life of Professor Hentz, written by the 
 late Mr. Edward Burgess, may be found in the preface to " The Spiders of 
 the United States," published by the Boston Society of Natural History. I 
 am indebted to Professor Henshaw, the Secretary of that Society, for a 
 photograph of the likeness from which the phototype plate of Professor 
 Hentz has been made. It has been reproduced as faithfully as the age 
 and condition of the original photograph would allow. 
 
 In reviewing this book it falls out as a matter of course that I note imper- 
 fections therein. Most of these, it may be said in all fairness, are due to the 
 peculiar circumstances under which the work has been wrought. 
 Errors and g ome j j.j ie pi a tes were finished, printed, and even colored, 
 Blemishes. ., . r , . ,, . , 
 
 awaiting their place in the volume, as many as ten years ago. 
 
 In the progress of study my views of certain species were modified, thus 
 compelling some modification of the printed results. But this, as expressed 
 in the plates, could not be done without rejecting and remaking the plates, 
 a loss I did not feel it necessary to bear. Corrections and modifications 
 have therefore been made in the text and in the plate descriptions, and 
 no practical disadvantage need be felt by the student. Moreover, the 
 detached manner in which all my work has been done, taking an hour 
 here and there, or a week or so from a summer vacation, and the inabil- 
 ity, because of professional obligations, to give close and connected over- 
 sight to the work of artists, lithographers, copyists, and colorists has resulted 
 in some blunders which have indeed been easily corrected in the text, and 
 would attract but little attention from the ordinary observer, but which 
 none the less to an author are a blemish upon his work. 
 
 Nevertheless, the author has at least the satisfaction of believing that 
 he has honestly, faithfully, and impartially endeavored to meet every ques- 
 tion, whether in the life habits or classification of spiders, to which he has 
 
directed his attention. He indulges the hope that he may at least have 
 cleared the way for others to follow, in a field where the difficulties are 
 undeniably great, but where the rewards to an earnest seeker 
 Tne after Nature's secret ways are abundant. They are had not only 
 
 Creators ^ ^ e gratification of such pleasant toil, and in the conscious- 
 ness of having added to human knowledge and enjoyment, but 
 in the higher satisfaction of having contributed somewhat to man's knowl- 
 edge of the works of his Creator. 
 
 The author would count himself faithless to truth as well as to duty 
 were he not to add that the last named consideration has been to him a 
 continuous stimulus and support. He believes thoroughly in 
 Author's tliat view of Divine Providence taught him by beloved parents 
 M x ®. in his childhood which makes it to be God's "most wise and 
 
 powerful preserving and governing all His creatures and all 
 their actions." The smallest creatures and the lowliest adventures of their 
 humble lives are within the care of the Good Father of all, the Lord of 
 spiders as well as the God of men. To bring all knowledge uncovered 
 from the secret places of the natural world, and lay it devoutly before the 
 world's Creator as a tribute of worship and a token of spiritual fellowship, 
 has been the chief motive which has urged the author to, has guided him 
 through, and sustained him in, this work of twenty years, now happily 
 ended. 
 
 H. C. McC. 
 
 The Manse, 
 Philadelphia, July 3d, A. I). 1894. 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF VOLUME 111. 
 
 PART I.— GENERAL HABITS, BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY, AND 
 ANATOMICAL NOMENCLATURE. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 TOILET, DRINKING, BURROWING, AND SOCIAL HABITS. 
 
 PAGES 
 
 Toilet Habits of Spiders — Toilet Implements — Hair Dressing the Feet— Combine and 
 Washing the Head — Tarantula's Toilet — Toilet Habits compared with Ants — 
 Argiope Cleansing her Feet — Tidy Housekeeping — Clearing away Rubbish — Eating 
 the Web — Penalty of Untidiness — Shamrock Spider — Purseweb Spider — Drinking 
 Habits — Tarantula Drinking — Zillas Drinking — Feeding Habits — Dolomedes — Water 
 Habits — Rafting Spiders — Long Submergence — Burrowing Methods — Lycosa Ti- 
 grina — Maternal Ingenuity — Lycosa — Turret Spider's Building — Flinging Dirt 
 Pellets — Secretiveness — Tunnel of Atypus — Tunnels of Mygalidte — Tarantula 
 Digging her Burrow — Carrying Dirt — California Trapdoor Spiders — Repairing 
 Doors— Branch Nests — Site Mimicry of Cteniza Californica— Tarantula opifex — 
 Professor Wagner, of Moscow — Trapdoor Making Lycosid — Territelarian Archi- 
 tecture — Lycosid Architecture— Comparative Views of Industrial Habits — Young 
 Spiders — Baby Communities — M. Eugene Simon's Discoveries — Incubating Nest — 
 Sociable Epeiras — Cocooning suspends Pugnacity — Mothers with many Cocoons — 
 Social Theridioids — Tenting Commons of Spiderlings— Uloborus Republicanus — 
 Guarding Cocoons — Orbweaving Neighborhoods — Gregarious Saltigrades 15-43 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 MEMORY, MIMICRY, AND PARASITISM. 
 Intelligence and Memory — Cotton Utilized for Doors — Turret Spiders — Memory of 
 Epeira Trifolium —Sense of Location — Insect Memory — Color Mimicry — Mimicry 
 of Bird Excreta— Ornithoscatoi'des decipiens of Cambridge — Anthropomorphism — 
 Evolution of Mimicry — Method of Ovipositing — A Parasitic Larva — John L. 
 Curtis — The Dictyna Parasite — Parasite on Epeira strix — Parasites in Cocoons- 
 Egg Parasites— Mr. Howard's Studies of Hymenopterous Parasites — Table of Para- 
 sites and Parasitized Spiders — Generalizations— Relations of Spinning Habits to 
 Parasitism— Cocooning Habit and Parasitism 44-62 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY. 
 Spider Enemies — Wasps Pursuing Spiders — Tube Making Orbweavers — Sitting in the 
 Hub— Fish Killing Spiders— Counterpoise in Web Weaving — Spider Poison — Pro- 
 fessor Bertkau's Experience — Tigrina's Courtship — Mending Snares — Nocturnal and 
 Diurnal Spiders— A Wind Wrecked Web— Mending Foundation Lines — Patching 
 Tubeweavers — Trapdoor Spiders— Intelligence in Locating Nest — Mode of Enter- 
 ing Nest — Mimicry of Site — The Tarantula Hawk — Enemies Influencing Architec- 
 ture—Mimicry—Baby Spiders 63-76 
 
 (ID 
 
12 TABLE OP CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 WEATHER PROGNOSTICATIONS, SUNDRY SUPERSTITIONS, COMMERCIAL VALUE 
 OP SPIDER SILK. 
 
 I'AUUK 
 
 Weather Prognostication— Stones and Traditions — The Popular Notion — Notes of 
 Weather and Webs— Orbweavers no Weather Prophets — Spider Superstitions — 
 Money Spinners — Luck in Seeing Spiders— Spider Silk in Industrial Art — Sources 
 of Spider Silk— M. Bon's Pioneer Attempts— Reaumur's Results— Abbe Ternieyer's 
 Experiments — Reeling Silk from Spiders — Professor Wilder's Experiments — Nephila 
 as a Silk Producer — An Englishman's Attempt 77-89 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 
 
 Moulting of Young — Cannibalism — Young Epeiras — Mode, of Moulting— Baby Congre- 
 gations — Young Turret Spiders — Young Dolomedes — Theridioids — Manner of 
 Moulting — Orbweavers' Moulting — After the Moult — Argiope's Moulting— Liny- 
 phia — Medicinal Spider — Lycosids — Tarantula — Periodicity of Moulting — Modifying 
 Agents— Effect of Insect Stings — Protective Habits— Facility in Moulting— Moulting 
 Dangers — Limbs Lost in Moulting— Effect of Nourishment — Color Changes — Change 
 in Males — Peckham's Studies of Attidic — Laterigradcs — Change in Tarantulas — 
 Summary — Periodicity of Moulting — Physiological Moulting Changes — Forming 
 New Skin — Professor Wagner's Studies— Blood— Moulting of Hairs— Origin of New 
 Hairs — Poison Gland — Abdominal Muscles— Legs— Spinning Organs— Summary . . 90-115 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 REGENERATION OF LOST ORGANS AND ANATOMICAL NOMENCLATURE. 
 
 Renewal of Lost Organs — Dr. Heineken's Observations — Wagner's Work — Lost Limbs — 
 Imperfect Reproduction — The Huntsman Spider — Periodicity of Regeneration, — 
 Atrophy of Old Tissues— Formation of Cicatrix — Red Blood Cells — Atrophy of 
 Muscles— Origin and Development of a New Leg— Origin of Hairs — Anatomical 
 Nomenclature — The Eyes — Cephalothorax — Abdomen— Epigynum and Parts — Use 
 of Male Palps— Cymbium — Alveolus — Hajmatodocha— Receplaculum seminis — Blood 
 Ducts 116-131 
 
 PART II.— DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 
 
 Orbitelaria: Defined — Habits and Classification — The Name of the Order — Araneae — 
 Changes in Nomenclature — Law of Priority — The Abbot Manuscripts — Influence 
 on the Hentzian Names — Description of Genera and Species — Epeira — Marxia — 
 Ordgarius — Verrucosa — Kaira — Wagneria — Wixia — Carepalxis — Gea — Gastera- 
 '"ii 1 1 1 in — Acrosoma — Cercidia — Argiope — Cyclosa — Cyrtophora — Zilla — Singa — Argyro- 
 epeira — Abbotia — Larinia — Drexelia— Meta— Nephila — Hentzia — Tetragnatha — Eug- 
 natlin — Eucta — Pachygnatha — Uloborus— Hyptiotes — Theridiosoraa— Samples of Ab- 
 bot's Manuscript Drawings — Theridium— Tubeweavers — Agalena — Dictyna — Trapdoor 
 Spiders— Cteniza— Atypus — Misumena — Attoids — Phidippus — Zygobalus— Astia — 
 Citigrades — Lycosa — Pucetia 132-277 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS. 13 
 
 PART III.— PLATES AND INDEX. 
 
 Phototype of Professor N. M. Hcntz (from a photograph in possession of the 
 
 Boston Natural History Society) Frontispiece 
 
 Paoks 
 
 Index 278-284 
 
 Advertisement 285 
 
 Plate I. — Species of Epcira — Argiope Marxii 290-291 
 
 II— Species of Epeira 294-295 
 
 III.— Species of Epeira 298-299 
 
 IV— Species of Epeira 302-303 
 
 V.— Species of Epeira 30G-307 
 
 VI— Species of Epeira 310-311 
 
 VII.— Species of Epeira— Nephila Wilderi 314-315 
 
 VIII.— Species of Epeira 318-319 
 
 IX.— Species of Epeira 322-323 
 
 X.— Species of Epeira 320-327 
 
 XI.— Species of Epeira 330-331 
 
 XII.— Ordgarius— Marxia— Verrucosa 334-335 
 
 XIII. — Wagneria — Kaira — Wixia — Carepalxis — Marxia — Gasteracantha 338-339 
 
 XIV. — Argiope — Hentzia — Epeira — Gasteracantha 342-343 
 
 XV. — Argiope cophinaria, A. argyraspis 34G-347 
 
 XVI. — Argiope argentata, A. argyraspis, A. cophinaria 350-351 
 
 XVII. — Species of Cyclosa— Cyrtophora 354-355 
 
 XV HI.— Species of Zilla— Epeira Peckhami 358-359 
 
 XIX. — Species of Singa — Circidia funebris — Cyclosa Thorclli 362-303 
 
 XX. — Argyroepeira — Abbotia — Singa variabilis 366,-367 
 
 XXI.— Species of Acrosoma 370-371 
 
 XXII. — Larinia — Drexelia — Meta — Epeira nephiloides 374-375 
 
 XXIII.— Species of Nephila— Hentzia basilica 378-379 
 
 XXIV.— Nephila— Argyroepeira— Abbotia— Eucta 382-383 
 
 XXV.— Tetragnatha— Eugnatha 386-387 
 
 XXVI.— Species of Pachygnatha 390-391 
 
 XXVII.— Uloborus— Hyptiotes— Theridiosoma 394-395 
 
 XXVIII. — Pachygnatha — Tetragnatha — Eucta— Uloborus — Facsimile specimens of 
 
 the manuscript drawings of Baron Walckenaer 398-399 
 
 XXIX. — Theridium — Agalena — Dictyna— Segestria— Cteniza— Atypus— Misumena — 
 
 Phidippus— Zygoballus— Astia 402-403 
 
 XXX.— Lycosa tigrina, L. arenicola, L. ramulosa— Pucetia aurora 406^07 
 
CHAPTEE I. 
 
 TOILET, DRINKING, BURROWING, AND SOCIAL HABITS. 
 
 Contrary to general opinion, spiders are tidy in their personal habits. 
 They are indeed sometimes found in positions suggestive of anything but 
 neatness, and occasionally their webs are much soiled with accu- 
 „ ... mulated dust, particularly those of tribes which spin sheeted 
 webs in cellars, stables, barns, and like places. Even in such 
 cases the creature rises above her environment and keeps her body clean. 
 Orbweavers' webs are rarely seen much soiled by dust or floating refuse of 
 any sort, a fact which of course is chiefly due to the transient life of the 
 snare, which for the most part is limited to a single day. These webs, 
 as we have already seen, are generally made in attractive surroundings 
 among grasses, leaves, and flowers, which would prove a veritable aranead 
 Eden were it not for obtruding evil spirits in the shape of raiding wasps, 
 hungry birds, and other foes. 
 
 When spiders become covered wholly or in part with objectionable mat- 
 ter, whether dew, rain or dust, or soil as in the case of ground workers, 
 they soon proceed to cleanse themselves. Their brushes and 
 plements comDs are * ne na i r y armature of the legs and palps, together 
 with the hairs and teeth that arm the mandibles, and these toilet 
 implements are well adapted to the work. Did the habit of cleanliness 
 arise from the possession of these implements? Or, were the implements 
 developed out of the vital necessity for a cleanly person? 
 
 A large female Domicile spider suspended downward upon a series of 
 cross lines, by her hind legs (Fig. 2), accomplished her toilet something in 
 this wise: The fore leg was drawn up and placed at the tibia between 
 the fangs. It was then slowly drawn outward, the mandibles meanwhile 
 gently squeezed upon it (Fig. 4), until the whole leg had passed through 
 the combing process, when it was stretched out and another leg substituted ; 
 and thus on until all had been cleaned. The palps were combed in the 
 same way, and then were used for cleaning the face and fore part of the 
 mandibles. In this act the palp, after having been drawn through the 
 mouth, perhaps to moisten it, would be thrown to the top of the caput, 
 which it overclasped in the position of Fig. 3, and then was gradually 
 drawn down over the eye space and front of the mandibles, smoothing 
 down and cleansing the surface thereof as it was moved along. The 
 
 (15) 
 
16 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 motion resembled that of a cat in the act of cleaning her face and the 
 back part of her head and ears, after having licked her paw. 
 
 Spiders may often be seen making their toilets in the early morning. 
 The heavy dews discomfort them and they brush away the drops which 
 cling to them. The same act may be observed after showers of rain, after 
 feeding, and often after making a snare. The viscid beads and bits of 
 flocculent matter from her own web some- 
 times entangle with the hairs and spines of 
 the legs, after a more than usually vigor- 
 ous effort in capturing and swathing a vic- 
 tim. This is so disagreeable that the cap- 
 tive will be trussed up in the open space 
 of the broken orb until the tidy aranead 
 removes the offending matter. Sometimes 
 after a hearty meal Arachne will make her fiq. i. fig. 2. 
 
 toilet, thus reversing the human mode of F>°- t The Agricultural ant cleaning the 
 
 _' ° tip of her abdomen. Fig. 2. Domicile spi- 
 
 dressing before dinner. der cleansing her leg while suspended on 
 
 One spider (Epeira vertebrata), captured a web - 
 
 in a large glass tube while eating a fly, kept hold of her food, deliberately 
 
 adjusted herself to her new position, spun out a few lines which 
 
 *? air ~. were rapidly attached to the sides of the glass, then turned over 
 
 the^Feet and witn S reat san S ^ roi(i c° ncm cled her meal. When she had 
 
 finished she began cleaning her palps and feet, and gave me a 
 
 fine opportunity to see the whole operation. I here observed that the mouth 
 
 secreted freely a liquid which appeared to be a little mucilaginous, and that 
 
 the paws were drawn through this. The stiff hairs upon the upper part 
 
 and inner sides of the mandibles must materially aid the process of cleansing. 
 
 The fangs are used as claspers in the process of cleansing. The leg is 
 
 passed underneath one fang which clasps it around in the bent part at the 
 
 articulation, thus holding 
 it up to and within the 
 mouth. The tendency of 
 the legs to spring back from their 
 unnatural position is probably thus 
 overcome until they can be cleansed. 
 The fangs may also serve to move 
 the leg back and forth through 
 the jaws. During this process the mandibles work back and forward like 
 the jaws of vertebrate animals, only that they move horizontally instead 
 of vertically. The fangs are used in the same manner to clasp and 
 adjust the prey during the act of feeding. They thus serve, together with 
 the palps, the purpose of fingers or hands. 
 
 When a hind leg is cleansed it is bent forward and downward beneath 
 the abdomen and so into the mouth, where it is treated as above described. 
 
 Fig. 3. Fig. 4. 
 
 Fig. 3. Combing and washing the head with the palp 
 Fig. 4. Combing a fore leg with the fangs. 
 
TOILET AND HOUSEKEEPING HABITS. 
 
 17 
 
 The drawing Fig. 5 shows Argiope cophinaria as seen in this phase of 
 making the toilet. The sides of the abdomen are cleansed by brushing 
 them with the sides of the third pair of legs, which are pressed against the 
 body and pushed downward, as one would stroke a cat's hair with his 
 hand. The cleansing of the dorsal part of the abdomen is effected by 
 throwing a hind leg over the top thereof and moving it downward towards 
 the spinners, keeping it meanwhile pressed against the skin. The spines 
 and bristles on the legs thus act as a comb or brush. 
 
 I have often had opportunity to note like habits of personal cleanli- 
 ness in our American Mygalidaj. My longlived tarantula " Leidy " was 
 
 remarkably tidy. Always after digging 
 Tarantu- •, , •, ., , , 
 
 i . T -i t hi its burrow it was quite sure to cleanse 
 
 its person, and, by reason of its size, 
 the use of its palps in wiping off the fore part 
 of its body presented an amusing likeness to the 
 familiar action of pussy when washing her face 
 with her paws. The fore legs were cleansed by 
 placing them against the palps and rubbing the 
 two together. The toilet was also accomplished 
 by overlapping one leg with the other, the second 
 leg over the third, for example, and then rubbing 
 the two as if a man were to scratch his legs by 
 drawing the inner surface of one along the front 
 surface of the other. The first leg was thus rub- 
 bed against the second, of course being pressed 
 down upon it meanwhile. The palp was thrown 
 back to the first leg, which it brushed off in the 
 same manner. 
 
 It is interesting, and suggestive of the substan- 
 tial unity in the primary functions of life which 
 prevades living things, to note this com- 
 munity of habit and method between 
 
 a vertebrate and an arachnid. The same may be remarked of 
 the ants, whose toilet habits I have carefully observed and de- 
 scribed in my " Agricultural Ant of Texas." 1 The methods of cleaning their 
 persons practiced by ants and spiders are quite similar ; more so, indeed, 
 than one would suppose, considering the remarkable difference in the gen- 
 eral life economy of the two creatures. It is not a particularly striking fact, 
 but rather what one would expect, that a spider should hang herself up by 
 a hind foot to comb, brush, and wash herself. But it strikes one as some- 
 what out of the ordinary that an ant should resort to the same turnverein 
 process, yet it does so, as. I have shown in the case of the Agricultural 
 
 Compar 
 ed with 
 Ants. 
 
 Fro. 5. Argiope cleansing a hind- 
 ermost foot by drawing it 
 through the fangs. 
 
 1 Chapter VIII. on Toilet, Sleeping, and Funeral Habits. 
 
18 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 ant. 1 I reproduce a figure from the above work to show the likeness noted. 
 (Fig. 1.) In sooth, one may go further up the grade of zoological life, even 
 to the apex of the pyramid, and note that man himself in the act of 
 combing his hair unconsciously adopts artificial implements which resemble 
 the natural combs and brushes supplied in the tibial combing spur of ants, 
 and the hairs, bristles, and tarsal scopulse of spiders. The economic har- 
 mony, here at least, certainly threads vast intervals of being. 
 
 II. 
 
 The tidiness of spiders is further shown by the fact that they are 
 extremely loth to sully with excrement the boxes in which they are im- 
 prisoned. I continually observe that, when emptying my collect- 
 Tidy j n g DOxes j n order to colonize spiders on my vines, the first act 
 house- . to vQ j ( j excreta w hich they often do with great freeness, in 
 large white drops, showing that they have really done violence 
 to nature by retaining the same rather than mar the little box in which 
 they were confined. So, also, they are careful in this natural act to avoid 
 fouling their webs. The abdomen is thrown so far outward that the voided 
 matter never comes in contact with the web lines. 
 
 It is interesting to observe an Orbweaver in the process of cleansing 
 its web from material which has fallen upon it. I made a complete obser- 
 vation of a female specimen of the Shamrock spider engaged at 
 
 ouse- ^jjj s wor k. Several leaves of an ampelopsis vine on which her 
 cl6£tniii£r 
 
 snare was spun, and two bits of the stem thereof, one at least 
 
 four inches long, had become entangled in the lower part of the orb. The 
 spider had just commenced the work of clearing away this extraneous 
 material when my observation began. 
 
 She was hanging by a line which she had attached to the hub of her 
 orb, and which dropped down upon the inside of the web, so that she 
 faced the leaf that she was then about to remove. One hind foot reached 
 upward beyond the abdomen and held to this line, which, of course, was 
 also attached to the spinnerets. (Fig. 6.) During part of the operation the 
 other hind foot was stretched backward, and clasped the line near the spin- 
 ners, as though to give additional poise and security to her position. But 
 throughout a large part of the entire operation of clearing away the debris 
 she hung by one hind foot alone, and used the other one for the work of 
 dragging out, revolving, and expelling the material. In this position, hang- 
 ing thus opposite her point of endeavor, she reminded me of painters 
 swinging upon their little seats by ropes fastened far above and engaged 
 in painting the sides of a house; or of workmen let down from heights 
 for the various purposes of their handicrafts. This position was never 
 abandoned for the whole period of time, the spider being able to swing 
 
 1 Pogonoinynnex barbatus. Ibid., page 129 and pi. xvii., Fig. 80. 
 
TOILET AND HOUSEKEEPING HABITS. 
 
 19 
 
 herself back and forward across an arc of four or five inches, moving her- 
 self by the free legs, but always holding to the dragline by at least one foot. 
 
 Having thus secured a position for convenient labor she seized with her 
 fore feet the intruding leaf, and began removing the spiral and radial lines 
 upon which it was entangled. These were pulled away by the claws and 
 bitten off by the mouth. To promote this purpose the leaf was turned over 
 by the fore legs, assisted by the short third pair. When one end was 
 released it was carried towards the spider's mouth, gradually passed under- 
 neath the face by the 
 movement of the fore 
 legs, and the clinging 
 parts of the viscid lines 
 in the meantime were 
 gnawed away from the 
 undctached portions of 
 the leaf. Finally the leaf 
 was freed from its en- 
 tanglement, and held off 
 a little space from the 
 body by the legs, which 
 were now bunched close 
 underneath the jaws. 
 Then, swinging herself 
 outward a little ways 
 from the orb, the spider 
 passed the leaf away from 
 her downward, and when 
 nearly freed from her 
 grasp gave it a joint push 
 and fling with the fore 
 part of the legs which 
 cast it to the ground. 
 
 This process was re- 
 peated in the case of the 
 other rubbish in the web. 
 The long twig, which hung crosswise of the orb, caused her much 
 trouble, but she got rid of it very skillfully. Cutting away all the lines 
 on either side, she seized the twig and gradually pulled it beneath her face as 
 she hung head downward, and so passed it underneath her body and away 
 from the orb little by little. Then she poised it for a moment in a con- 
 venient position, and with a quick fling cast it from her towards the 
 ground, the fore legs being used for this act of expulsion. She experi- 
 enced much difficulty at times with the sticky lines, and at various inter- 
 vals was compelled to pause and clear her feet and legs of the viscid 
 
 Fia. 6. A Shamrock spider cleansing her snare of an entangled leaf. 
 The figure shows her in the last act. 
 
20 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 material. While cutting away the viscid spirals, the portions of the snare 
 above or below had to be looked after lest the orb should collapse by the 
 sundering of the supporting radii. This, however, was adroitly managed 
 as in the case of cutting out entangled insects, ftie inevitable dragline 
 being used to splice and stay from the spinnerets while the spider cut 
 away with the fangs. 
 
 When the two leaves and two twigs had been cleared away, a vacant 
 section was left in the web of about one-fifth the whole. At this point 
 my observation ceased, and I cannot say whether the spider built a new 
 orb immediately, clearing away all the rest, or patched the damaged section. 
 On the following morning, however, she was resting within her nest, holding 
 to a trapline attached to a perfect orb, on which were no traces of mending. 
 
 A female Epeira sclopetaria was observed clearing off a lot of straggling 
 threads stretched across a window. These were gathered up with the 
 second and third pairs of legs principally, which, aided by the 
 Scraps of p a jp S) d rew them towards the mouth, into which the spider put 
 p ® them. This is a common way of disposing of ragged bits and 
 
 fragments of spinningwork, which no doubt yield some nour- 
 ishment that may again be transformed into webs. 
 
 According to Mrs. Treat, the Turret spider is a neat housekeeper. She 
 leaves no debris in her cellar under the tower. The remains of insects 
 are thrown from the top in the same manner that she throws 
 Penalty excavated pellets. The Tiger spider, on the contrary, always 
 ?.,. n leaves the skeletons of insects in the bottom of its tube, which 
 in time makes a rich black mould. As the result of this, the 
 occupant is often driven from its room by a great mushroom starting from 
 the bottom of the burrow upward and completely demolishing it, forcing 
 the tenant to seek new quarters. Such a catastrophe never happens to the 
 neater tower builder. 1 
 
 The advantages of cleanliness are certainly thus remarkably illustrated, 
 and a sufficient reason given why, for the most part, spiders are careful to 
 carry from their dens and snares the debris of insects eaten by them. This 
 is not the universal rule, however, as other species besides Lycosa tigrina 
 will sometimes overspin the remains of their feasts, entirely covering over 
 with spinningwork the hard chitinous portions which are rejected. Nor 
 does this act always result in such a calamity as that above recorded. 
 
 The Turret spider, after working upon her tower or in her burrow for 
 an hour or more, is apt to stop and assume her favorite position, seated 
 across the top of her tower, in order to make her toilet. First one leg 
 and then another is passed between the palps several times, and all the 
 while her mandibles are at work as if chewing, the moisture meanwhile 
 working up between them. 
 
 1 Home Studies in Nature. 
 
DRINKING HABITS AND WATER LIFE. 
 
 21 
 
 The Purseweb spider, according to Mr. W. L. Poteat, 1 is scrupulously 
 neat. The droppings of his captive spiders were deposited outside the 
 nesting tube, and generally at suph a distance as necessitated 
 Purse- j ier i eav i n g tlic nest. These deposits were observed only in the 
 Spider morning, so that she quits her tube at night, at least for this 
 purpose. 2 One usually finds a cluster of insect remains loosely 
 adhering to the outer wall of the tube, a little below its upper extremity. 
 Theso do not seem to be purposely attached to the tube, but to be acci- 
 dentally entangled when being thrown out, as with excavated earth, for 
 they are often seen on the ground at the foot of the tube. The leavings 
 of a single feast are frequently seen bound together with silk. On one 
 tube was recognized the remains of some Neuropterous insect and of two 
 woolly-bear caterpillars, such as hair, bits of chitinous integument, mandi- 
 bles, joints of legs, etc. The elytra of beetles are also common. 
 
 Fig. 7. A tarantula drinking water from a saucer. 
 III. 
 
 Spiders require water, as do most animals, for their health, comfort, and 
 growth. They can, indeed, live long periods deprived of water, but unless 
 . supplied with an equivalent in the animal juices of their prey 
 
 Habits^ tliey P erisn from thi 118 *- Even when insect food is abundant they 
 enjoy fresh water, and habitually partake of it in nature. The 
 dews which gather upon their webs during the hot months probably afford 
 a common supply. In the morning after a heavy dew, or after a rain 
 shower, spiders may be seen brushing away the moisture accumulated upon 
 the hairs which clothe their bodies. This is done by passing the fore legs 
 forward over the head and cephalothorax, and the hind legs over the abdo- 
 men backward. The legs, which gather the moisture upon their armature 
 of hairs and spines, are then doubled under the body and drawn between 
 the two mandibles, or between the mandibles and lip, thus brushing off the 
 water, a part of which, however, remains and is taken into the mouth. 
 
 1 A Tube Building Spider, page 16. 
 
 8 Ibid., page 15. 
 
22 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Again, I have often seen the mouth parts applied directly to water, 
 which appeared to be appropriated in the usual way of feeding by pressing 
 the liquid into the gullet. Spiders of all tribes have been seen drinking in 
 this way, and this is the method continually practiced by my tarantulas 
 in confinement as shown in the sketch at Fig. 7. I frequently receive 
 living spiders sent long distances in boxes or bottles, and my first act is 
 to give them fresh water, which they usually rush upon and at once eagerly 
 apply their mouth parts thereto as here shown. 
 
 A brood of young Zillas kept in my study were given water daily 
 by throwing it in spray above the greatly extended fine web upon which 
 they were domiciled. They were often observed to take the moisture by 
 passing the legs to the mouth in the manner above described. On one 
 occasion I observed one of the brood carrying a goodly sized globule of 
 moisture in her jaws, which were spread out (Fig. 8) upon the drop over 
 which, on either side, the palps were also extended. These organs seemed 
 to be inserted into the globule, which, however, probably only adhered to 
 them by means of the delicate hairs upon them. At all events the young 
 aranead climbed over her web, carrying the particle with her. 
 
 At the same time a young Agalena nsevia, which had wandered from 
 her little tent spread on the table beneath, and was promenading the broad 
 
 sheeted commons of the Epei'roids, 
 had seized one of the largest drops 
 of spray and was making off with 
 it. The water was attached to the 
 mouth parts, as in the above in- 
 stance, but in addition the animal 
 
 Fi G .8,TyoungZina,ana Fig. 9, a young Agalena had thrown Olie fore leg (Fig. 9) 
 
 carrying a drop of water. around the side of the globule, 
 
 and thus trudged along, literally carrying an armful of water. I watched 
 her until she had gone eight inches in this way, when the drop, which had 
 gradually diminished in size, had nearly disappeared. It was certainly 
 a curious sight, this little spiderling trampling over the gossamer highway 
 carrying in jaw and claw this strange drinking cup, which shone like a 
 silver ball against the black body of its wee porter. 
 
 The same behavior was noticed in another individual of a brood of 
 Epei'roids, similarly confined. One of the young had taken or become en- 
 tangled with a drop of water, which it encompassed in part by one of its 
 second pair of legs, and with the remaining legs strode, back downward, 
 along the web. The moisture did not adhere to the lines, although fre- 
 quently in contact with them, and the drop was carried along several inches 
 to a tall box. As soon as the drop touched the wood it was absorbed, and 
 the spiderling returned to the lines, whereon she suspended herself and 
 began licking the dampness from her legs. Such facts strengthen the 
 probability that the dew furnishes a supply for satisfying aranead thirst. 
 
DKINKING HABITS AND WATER LIFE. 23 
 
 IV. 
 
 An interesting note upon the feeding habits of spiders has been com- 
 municated to me by the Philadelphia entomologist, Mr. P. P. Calvert. While 
 
 studying the habits of dragonflies he observed early in May a 
 Habits s P ec ' es °f spider, which appears to be a young Dolomedes sex- 
 
 punctatus, feeding upon newly transformed imagines of these 
 insects. The spiders were lurking upon tall grasses and water plants, on 
 the margin of a small pool near Bartram's Garden in Philadelphia. The 
 dragonflies had come to these plants to transform, and before their wings 
 were dried and ready for flight, while they were yet helpless, the young 
 Dolomedes seized them and sucked their juices. The two species which 
 were thus preyed upon are Ischnura verticalis Say and Nehalannia posita 
 
 Hagen, both of them small species. Dolomedes, as heretofore 
 medes described (see Index of Vol. II.), is a semiaquatic species, running 
 
 rapidly upon the water to seize insects, and remaining for a con- 
 siderable length of time underneath the surface. The mother deposits her 
 cocoon in a large leafy nest among the bushes, within which the young 
 are hatched. The specimen shown me by Mr. Calvert as taken while in 
 feeding on dragonflies was not more than half grown. We thus have a 
 glimpse of one of the methods in which this Citigrade species, and doubt- 
 less many others, obtain food. It shows also the disadvantages and perils 
 of insects during transformation, when they are exhausted by the process 
 and have not acquired the natural facilities for escape or defense. 
 
 Various spiders run fearlessly on the surface of the water ; some even 
 descend into it spontaneously, the time during which they can respire, 
 
 when immersed, depending upon the quantity of air confined by 
 Habits *" ie surroim ding liquid among the hairs with which they are 
 
 clothed. In this manner the European Argyroneta aquatica is 
 able to pursue its prey, to construct its dome shaped dwelling, and to live 
 habitually in water. There are, however, a few exceptions of extremely 
 small spiders, Neriena longipalpis and Savignia frontata, for example, 
 which, though they do not enter water voluntarily, can support life in it 
 for many days, and that without the external supply of air so needful to 
 the existence of Argyroneta under similar circumstances. 1 This is certainly 
 a remarkable fact. I have known spiders that seemed to be drowned by 
 long immersion in water to revive shortly after being taken out; even those 
 plunged in alcohol, if not kept therein too long, will recover from seeming 
 death. But that these small and delicate creatures should live several days 
 in water surely strains one's belief in even so trustworthy an observer as 
 Blackwall. 
 
 1 Blackwall, Spiders Gt. B. & I., Introduction, page 9. 
 
24 AMERICAN SPIDEKS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Argyroneta lias not been found in America, and no spider with habits 
 in anywise resembling it, but our spider fauna contains a number of 
 species, principally limited to the Citigrades, that are much at home either 
 
 on or within the water. Several species of Dolomedes habitually 
 Rafting jj ve m y ie neighborhood of water, and may be seen continually 
 Do j°~ running about upon the surface in search of prey. They avail 
 
 themselves sometimes of floating material in order to rest during 
 their predatory excursions. This incidental occurrence, in the case of Dol- 
 omedes fimbriatus of England, seems to have been specialized into the 
 habit of constructing a rude sort of raft by lashing together floating leaves. 
 This raft is utilized as a point of departure for raids upon water insects, 
 and as a " lunch room " in which the captured prey are fed upon. It 
 floats upon the fens of England, apparently at the sport of the wind. 
 
 Dolomedes sexpunctatus, in the neighborhood of Philadelphia, is able 
 to remain for a long time beneath the surface of water. I have on various 
 occasions timed the period of submergence, and one specimen remained 
 underneath the water forty-two minutes. While thus submerged the 
 spiders are surrounded more or less completely with bubbles of air which 
 have the appearance of a silvery coat of mail, as one looks down into the 
 water. I have alluded elsewhere 1 to the habit of certain Lycosids, as re- 
 ported by Dr. Alan Gentry, to live underneath frozen water during winter, 
 and pass from point to point by means of threads strung upon water 
 plants. This single observation opens up a new and strange chapter in 
 the winter life and amphibious habit of these animals, which invites in- 
 vestigation. No doubt the ability to exist while surrounded with water is 
 
 of special value during periods of heavy rain, when their burrows 
 Long must be inundated, and when they are themselves submerged for 
 
 hours or perhaps days together. It is probably true that all 
 
 spiders can endure a good deal of submerging ; they seem at 
 least to be able to survive under the heaviest and longest continued showers. 
 How easily even Orbweavers can adapt themselves to the water habit may 
 be found by reference to Vol. I., page 160, where it is seen that Tetrag- 
 natha habitually sails over the surface of Deal Lake, New Jersey, by means 
 of outspun filaments of thread; and where also (page 161) it is shown 
 that Epeira can avail herself of an accidental float in the shape of her own 
 flossy ball of cocooning silk. 
 
 VI. 
 
 Lycosa tigrina digs a tube in the earth from six to twelve inches in 
 depth, which is bent in a little elbow near the surface. The upper part 
 beyond the bend forms a sort of vestibule, 2 which assumes the shape of 
 a broad, silk lined funnel at the mouth of the burrow. The background 
 
 1 Acad. Nat. Sci., Philadelphia, 1884, page 140. 
 
 2 See Vol. I., Figs. 305, 306, page 323. 
 
BURROWING HABITS OP SPIDERS. 25 
 
 is composed of whatever material Tigrina can reach with her long hind 
 
 legs, while her fore legs rest in the edge of her tube. This funnel is the 
 
 foundation of a concealed room, which it sometimes takes the 
 
 Burrow- spider several nights to build. It seems to refrain from working 
 
 , during the day. Mrs. Treat says that the burrow of Tigrina is 
 
 uniformly straight. My observation is entirely different ; that of 
 
 Arenicola is uniformly straight down, but Tigrina builds a bent burrow as 
 
 above described. 
 
 A female of this species had a nest in a bed of green moss, and the 
 
 cover looked like a moundlet of moss and leaves. The longest diameter 
 
 measured five inches, and the shortest four and a half inches. 
 
 yco rpj ie k age CO ver was made of acorn cups and sticks firmly held 
 
 together with threads of silk. Then a silken canopy was spun, and 
 
 over this were laid green moss, dry leaves, and sticks held fast with spin- 
 
 ningwork. This made a neat little upper room, the walls of which were 
 
 smooth, silk lined within, but showed natural inequalities on the outside. 
 
 A window was left in the room, the use of which soon appeared. 
 Maternal 1 
 
 . The builder had an egg cocoon attached to her spinnerets, and 
 
 would put herself in position to let this rest against the window 
 where it received the rays of the sun. For three weeks this was her daily 
 occupation, patiently holding her egg sac in the sunlight. Was she not con- 
 scious of the fact that this aided the healthful development of her progeny? 
 
 On the 20th of May the observer removed the cover from the burrow, 
 and toward evening Tigrina began to restore it. She reached out her hind 
 legs, feeling for material, and first drew in an acorn cup and proceeded to 
 fasten it. On the following morning (May 21st) a broad funnel shaped 
 ring had been built around the tube, but not covering it. By May 24th 
 the spider had made a room above her burrow lightly covered with moss. 1 
 
 The male of Tigrina is a handsome fellow and nearly as large as the 
 female. In color he is a light snuff brown, with dashes of dark purple, 
 while the legs are striped like a tiger's. The female is nearly black. The 
 male takes as much pains in building its domicile as the female; indeed, 
 one confined in a jar entirely outdid the female in making a tasteful retreat. 
 He utilized a little twining plant by winding his web around it, thus mak- 
 ing a living green bower over his tube. 
 
 A New Hampshire Lycosa whose species is unknown was taken from 
 
 a burrow sixteen inches deep by Mrs. Treat, and placed in a glass jar with 
 
 five inches of moist earth well pressed down. It soon commenced 
 
 ycosa ^ Q j^ a k urrc .w next the glass, giving a fine opportunity to see 
 
 it work. It dug the earth loose with its mandibles and with the 
 
 fore feet compressed it into a pellet. It again turned, seized the ball in 
 
 its mandibles, necessitating a third turn, and then came to the edge of the 
 
 1 American Naturalist, August, 1879, page 488. 
 
26 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 tube, always with its back to the glass, and adjusted its fore feet so that 
 the tips touched beneath and partly behind the ball of earth. Then with 
 a sudden movement, like snapping the fingers, she shot the earth forth with 
 sufficient force to make it hit the opposite side of the jar. These pellets 
 were held together with a kind of mucilage, sometimes mixed with web 
 lines, showing that in massing the pellets preparatory to deporting them, 
 probably some secretion from the salivary glands is used, and that occa- 
 sionally filaments of thread are also utilized for binding the particles of 
 earth together. 1 
 
 A Turret spider was kept in confinement by Mrs. Treat and furnished 
 with sticks and moss in order to observe the manner of erecting her tower. 
 
 When she had carried down her burrow about two inches in 
 Turret depth she commenced to build the tower above it. She would 
 B P *, ®. r take the sticks from the lady's fingers and place them at the 
 
 edge of her tube. She worked while inside her burrow, holding 
 the stick with her forefingers until it was arranged to suit her. She then 
 turned and fastened it with a strong web. She took another stick, pro- 
 ceeded in the same way, and continued thus until she had laid the foun- 
 dation of a five sided wall. 
 
 Next she went to the bottom of the tube and brought up a pellet of 
 earth which she placed at the top of the sticks, and proceeding thus erected 
 a circle of pellets which she next overspun. They were so arranged as to 
 cover the sticks on the inside, leaving the inner walls perfectly rounded and 
 silk lined. Then the spider was ready for more sticks, which she continued 
 to alternate with pellets until the tower reached a height two-and-one-half 
 inches above the burrow. Sometimes bits of moss an inch or two in length 
 were given her by the observer, which were used by fastening them to a stick 
 with threads of silk. This ma.de a wall fringed on the outside with moss. 
 If the spider were not in a mood for building, and a stick were offered 
 her she would take it in her mandibles, and with her fore feet give it a 
 
 quick blow, often sending it away with force enough to hit the 
 Flinging enclosing jar. When she was digging and bringing up pellets of 
 , . earth which she did not wish to use upon her tower, she would 
 
 throw these from the top of the walls with sufficient force to send 
 them a foot or more from the burrow, had it not been for the intervening 
 glass. This habit accounts for the fact that the observer could never find 
 fresh earth near the burrows of Turret spiders. 
 
 What motive could the aranead have for thus casting the fresh earth 
 away from the immediate vicinity of her nest ? No doubt, had the soil 
 been permitted to accumulate by dumping it directly from the tower, the 
 protective uses of the tower would thus have been destroyed. Can it be, 
 moreover, that the secretive instinct which is observed in the building 
 
 1 Harper's Magazine, 1880, page 862. 
 
HUKKOWING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 27 
 
 habits of other Arthropods is responsible for this habit? Our American 
 Carpenter ants, Camponotus pennsylvanicus, when burrowing their halls 
 and galleries within a tree, cast out the fresh chippage from the 
 openings through the bark. But these are invariably gathered up 
 by a squad of workers at the foot of the trunk, and carried 
 away to a distance, as though it were thus intended to conceal all traces 
 of the neighborhood of the formicary. At least, I can find no other satis- 
 factory motive for such behavior. May it not be that the Turret spider 
 is moved by a similar sentiment ? 
 
 VII. 
 
 Atypus digs obliquely a deep tunnel of fifteen to twenty centimetres, 
 the size of its own body. It drapes the tunnel with a straight silken tube, 
 of close tissue, of which the upper part, longer than the subter- 
 ranean gallery, is laid horizontally upon the soil and terminates 
 in a point. Near its lower extremity the tube presents a considerable en- 
 largement, forming a quite spacious chamber in which the spider dwells. 
 At the entrance or throat of this enlargement the cocoon is suspended by 
 a number of threads. M. Simon says that he has many times taken Atypus 
 holding worms in its mandibles, and he believes that these worms form the 
 substance of their nourishment. In effect, if one examines the silken cham- 
 ber he remarks a place where the tissue is much thinner and transparent, 
 and Simon thinks it probable that Atypus removes the silk lining and thus 
 readily procures prey without the necessity of mounting to the surface of 
 the earth. However this may be, the actual observations heretofore made 
 upon the feeding habits of Atypus show that she subsists on insects which 
 she captures by seizing them through her tube as they rest or crawl upon 
 the outer surface thereof. She then drags her prey inside to feed thereon 
 and repairs the rent. 
 
 Mr. Bates describes Territelarian spiders (Mygale Blondii and M. avicu- 
 laria) as inhabiting broad tubular galleries smoothly lined with silken webs. 
 The galleries are two inches in diameter and run in a slanting 
 dge direction two feet. 1 Again he speaks of them as spreading a 
 
 thick web beneath a deep crevice in trees, and having their cells 
 under stones. 2 Once more, in alluding to their diversified habits, he says 
 that some species construct among the tiles or thatch of houses dens of 
 closely woven web which resembles fine muslin in texture. From these 
 domiciles they invade the house apartments. Others, according to Mr. Bates, 
 build similar nests in trees. 3 I believe it will be found that the creatures 
 that burrow in the earth are identical with those which spread sheeted 
 webs among the trees. Numbers of tarantulas come to our port (Phila- 
 delphia) in fruiting vessels, and are often found in the great pendant 
 
 1 Bates' "The Naturalist on the Amazon," Vol. II., page 58. 
 
 2 Ibid., Vol. I., page 61. s Ibid., Vol. I., page 106. 
 
28 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Fig. 10. A tarantula (Mygale) digging out her burrow. 
 
 bunches of bananas, to which they had no doubt resorted as a convenient 
 field for capturing prey, and were themselves captured and shipped, hidden 
 away among the clusters of fruit. 
 
 In the case of the spider " Leidy," described in Vol. IT., page 428, the 
 only effort made at nest building was a rude burrow which was excavated 
 against one side of the box, and which in the course of time was extended 
 
 downward to the bottom of 
 the box, and laterally along 
 the bottom either way, thus 
 forming an irregular cavity. 
 Into this it frequently de- 
 scended, dividing its time 
 between the cave and the 
 outside surface. This bur- 
 row was entirely destitute of 
 a silken lining, although oc- 
 casionally the opening at the 
 surface would be overspun 
 with a thin sheet of spin- 
 ningwork. I have seen the same habit in other individuals of the species 
 kept in confinement. The only attempt at a nest ever observed by me 
 has been this burrow, with an occasional sheeted closure, and more rarely 
 a slight silken lining of the interior of the burrow. I believe, therefore, 
 that the popular theory that the tarantula makes a trapdoor like the Cal- 
 ifornia Cteniza is without foundation in fact, and that its ordinary hab- 
 itat is a plain burrow 
 like that made by most 
 Lycosids. 
 
 The mode of mak- 
 ing the burrow was well 
 observed by me at vari- 
 ous times. 1 In the act 
 of digging the. spider 
 first used the two leg 
 like palps, the digital 
 brushes of which are 
 well adapted for that 
 service. Then the two front feet were brought into play to gather up 
 the loose pellets of soil and scrape them into a ball. The first and second 
 pairs of legs then closed up around and under the balled mass, compress- 
 ing it inside the mandibles. (Fig. 10.) When the pellets had thus been 
 gathered and squeezed into a mass, they were held within the extended 
 
 Fig. 11. Tarantula (Mygale) earrying dirt from her burrow. 
 
 Acad. Nat. Sci., Philadelphia, 1887, page 381. 
 
BURROWING HABITS OP SPIDERS. » 29 
 
 mandibles, the palps in the meantime girdling them at the side and 
 beneath, and so were carried away from the burrow to the dumping 
 ground. (Fig. 11.) 
 
 I never observed any scratching and scraping the dirt backward, in the 
 fashion of a dog digging in a rabbit burrow, which is also the action of 
 bees and wasps when excavating the earth. Always the pellets were de- 
 liberately loosened as I have indicated, squeezed together into a ball and 
 carried off. During the act of digging, and indeed quite habitually during 
 all actions such as eating, etc., tarantula kept her spinnerets curved above 
 the posterior end of the abdomen, while a diverging ray of threads issued 
 therefrom to the surface beneath. 
 
 VIII. 
 
 Miss Estelle Thomson, a correspondent of a weekly journal, 1 gives an 
 interesting account of the nesting and burrowing habits of the California 
 
 Trapdoor spider (Cteniza californica), which contains some ob- 
 rpT ° rma sei -vations worthy of a more permanent place and wider circula- 
 Spiders° r ^ on amon S araneologists. The spider's location of her nest is 
 
 carefully planned. It is never made in a hollow, but invariably 
 upon high, dry, sloping knolls so placed that moisture from the winter 
 rains drains off in every direction. This accords with other observations 
 of nesting site communicated to me. 
 
 A young man in the neighborhood of San Diego made a number of 
 
 experiments to determine if the occupants of the trapdoor nests would re- 
 
 . . place the doors of their burrows. He removed as many as sixty 
 
 Doors m * ne course °f a w eek, unhinging them at night, marking the 
 
 site, and going to the nests in the morning to note results. "With- 
 out exception the spider completed and hung a new door in the interval. 
 There was, however, a limit to this industry, and a remarkable series of 
 progressive dcterioriation in the quality of the successive doors. The sec- 
 ond door was always of coarser fibre than the first, its proportion of silk 
 being smaller. The third was in about equal proportion of silk and earth ; 
 the fourth largely of mud ; the fifth of mud, with barely sufficient webbing 
 to coat and hinge it. The sixth was a poor attempt at forming a mud 
 closure without any webbing, and no instance was observed when a single 
 spider completed more than five new doors, with perhaps half of the sixth. 
 One may attribute this behavior either to the natural exhaustion of the 
 spinning material required for replacing such continuous losses, or to the 
 physical exhaustion of the spider, with a strong element of intellectual dis- 
 gust and discouragement over such an unusual series of accidents. Did the 
 spider's mind at last reach the conclusion that it had come across an ex- 
 perience quite separated from the realm of accidents; and dimly apprehend 
 
 1 The Christian Union, New York, May 20th, 1898. 
 
30 ' AMERICAN SPIDEKS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 that she was in conflict with a power beyond that which controls ordinary 
 misfortunes, and which therefore it was quite useless to further oppose? 
 
 Another experiment with interesting results was the fastening of the 
 trapdoor with a pin or peg into the adjacent soil, so as to prevent exit 
 
 therefrom. Invariably when this was done in the evening, a little 
 Branch- ^^ m , anc i v wag excaV ated over night, witli an opening at the 
 
 nearest point to the original mouth of the tube, and a new door 
 hung upon it. It is possible that some of the various nests, first described 
 by Mr. Moggridge 1 as branched nests, may have been due to accidental 
 stoppage of doors. It has been supposed that spiders created these branches 
 as a refuge from enemies, or perhaps from aggressions of the elements. 
 Miss Thomson's record would indicate that the branch tube is simply a 
 natural effort of the spider to provide an exit from her burrow whenever 
 the ordinary mode of departure has been prevented. The curious thing 
 about it, perhaps, is that the inmate did not attempt to burrow out the 
 obstructed door, instead of taking the roundabout and more laborious course 
 of making for herself a side exit. What could have caused this peculi- 
 arity of behavior? Can we account for it by the general suspicious tem- 
 per which characterizes spiders, and many other animals, when brought in 
 contact with a new experience? 
 
 Miss Thomson attributes to Cteniza californica the secretive tendency 
 which naturalists have observed in other Trapdoor spiders. She conceals 
 
 her abode from observation by causing it to mimic the adjacent 
 SiteMim- s j te r pj ie ^ ooi , correS p 0n( ] s so c l 0S ely to the character of the 
 
 surrounding surface that it is difficult to discover it. If the bank 
 is bare the top of the door is also bare ; if the bank is covered with lichens, 
 the spider cuts a crop of minute lichens and glues them with nice judg- 
 ment to the outside of her door, thus disguising the entrance. 
 
 When one nest is discovered it is comparatively easy to discover two, 
 as they are almost always in pairs, and many times so close that their lids 
 touch when open. The observer does not state whether these contiguous 
 burrows are occupied by the different sexes, and it would be interesting to 
 know the facts in regard to this. 
 
 When leaving her burrow Cteniza simply allows the door to drop of 
 its own weight. When returning she scampers off at a smart pace for 
 her dwelling, and apparently lifts up the door- with the fangs of her 
 mandibles, and as she backs down the burrow allows the trap to fall be- 
 hind her. 
 
 After the hatching of the eggs from seventy-five to a hundred black- 
 and-green spiderlings will be found occupying the maternal nest. When 
 these are a few weeks old they leave the native burrow, and begin to exca- 
 vate in sunny places minute tubes of their own. Often a dozen such 
 
 1 Harvesting Ants and Trapdoor Spiders. 
 
BURROWING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 31 
 
 small abodes will be clustered about the old trapdoor. These vary greatly 
 in size, but all are quite perfect in form. The smallest nest measured by 
 Miss Thomson was barely three inches in depth, yet this was fitted with 
 a diminutive circular door no larger than the nail of a lady's little finger. 
 The largest adult nest measured was twelve inches in depth. 
 
 IX. 
 
 Heretofore I have considered the nesting habits of spiders 1 and the 
 influence of enemies upon their architecture (Vol. II., Chapter XIII.). 
 Elsewhere I have tried to trace the relations between the nesting 
 tula 611 " naDlts of the two g reat tribes, Citigrades and Tunnel weavers. 2 
 Opifex. A discover y lately made by Mr. W. A. Wagner, of Moscow, 
 gives new interest to these statements and enables me to com- 
 plete the chain of resemblances pointed out. The connecting link between 
 the industry of the two tribes is found in Mr. Wagner's Tarentula opi- 
 phex, 8 a Russian spider of the family Lycosoidse. 4 The nesting habits 
 of this spider are thus described by Wagner. It was observed in numbers 
 in the Russian province of Orel, and dwells among the tufted vegetation 
 of fallow lands, its principal habitation being fields of wheat and pota- 
 toes. The species is agile in movement, active in habit, and compara- 
 tively small in size, having a body length of less than one-half inch, ten 
 millimetres. (Figs. 12, 13.) The burrow is not deep, that of the adult 
 usually not exceeding two and a half inches; it is enlarged at the bottom, 
 giving it a bottle shape (Fig. 15) ; is silk lined throughout, but the lining 
 is extremely thin except toward the entrance; the walls are smooth and 
 more carefully finished than usual with known Lycosids, as, for example, 
 Trochosa singoriensis. 
 
 But the most remarkable and distinct feature is the covering of the 
 burrow, which is constructed after the well known type of the Trapdoor 
 spiders, Figs. 14, 17, 18. This door consists of a single layer 
 Trapdoor of g^ covem j externally with a coating of soil, whose pellets 
 Lycosid. are bound together by a mesh of threads and spread unequally 
 upon the surface, being much thicker in front than behind. It 
 has the usual shape of the Trapdoor spider's door, something more than 
 semicircular, or a circular plate cut squarely across the end by which it 
 is hinged to the burrow. (See Figs. 17, 18.) Instead of being beveled 
 along the edge like the door of our Cteniza californica, and thus fitting 
 into the burrow like a cork into a bottle, it rests when closed upon the 
 surface edge of the burrow like a basket lid upon a basket. The front, 
 or entrance end, projects beyond the burrow (Figs. 15, 16), making a sort 
 
 1 Vol. I., Chapter XVIII. 
 
 2 Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., 1887, Philadelphia, page 377, sq. 
 
 3 Opifex ? 
 
 ' Bulletin Soc. Imper. des Naturalistes de Moscow, No. 4, 1890. 
 
32 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 <> 
 
 Nesting Architecture of Turentula opifex. (After Wagner.) 
 
 Fig. 12. Female. Fia. 13. Male. Fra. 14. Watching for prey at the bottom of its burrow, the 
 door partly raised. Fig. 15. Section view of the burrow, showing its bottle shape Fig. 10. Side 
 view in outline of door and throat of burrow ; s, silk lining of same ; h, hinge of silk ; cr, crest of 
 the door in front; p, portico of same; sw, silken walls. Fig. 17. Outside of door from above. 
 Fig. 18. Inside of door, silk lined. Fig. 19. Grouping of eyes. 
 
BURROWING HABITS OK SPIDERS. 
 
 33 
 
 of portico for the spider when it is on guard. (Fig. 14.) The silk lining of 
 the walls of the burrow (Fig. 16, sw) is continued along one side of the 
 under surface (s) of the door by a thickened ribbon of silk (h), which 
 serves the purpose of a hinge upon which the lid turns when it opens and 
 shuts; its motion backward, however, is limited, for if one tries to bend it 
 beyond the vertical the hinge is fractured. 
 
 It will be seen from the section view of the upper part of the burrow 
 (Figs. 15, 16) that the lid is much thickened toward the front, forming a 
 crest (cr), while the hinder part next the hinge has only a thin 
 The Lid coa j. f go ji This arrangement, Mr. Wagner points out, serves to 
 tt- bear down the free end of the lid, and closes it rapidly and tightly 
 
 when the spider enters or goes forth ; it has, in fact, the advan- 
 tage of the strong and elastic hinge of the Trapdoor spider's nest, which 
 unites with the gravity of the door to bring it down into the burrow's mouth. 
 
 Some time before sunset, and probably during the day, Tarentula opifex 
 may be seen on guard at the mouth of its den (Fig. 14) ; its head and fore 
 
 Comparative View of Territelarian Architecture. 
 
 Flo. 20. Simple burrow (Mygale), unlined or lined only at top. Fig. 21. Purseweb spider's tubular nest 
 supported on trees; burrow sparsely lined, covered with sand, wood, and mould. Fig. 22. Atypus piceus; 
 low hung tubular nest without opening, covered with vegetable miscelhiny. Flo. 23. Silken aerial tower, 
 Leptopelma elongata. Fig. 24. Conglomerate tower, doorless. Fig. 25. Conglomerate tower, with wafer 
 lid. Fig. 26. Burrow, with lid at the surface ; silken lining. Fig. 27. Thick door, many layers, beveled 
 edge, burrow completely lined with heavy silk. 
 
 legs are then thrust over the margin of the door, which hangs ajar, and is 
 supported upon the head and back. Here it will remain for a while as 
 though on sentry duty until it ventures forth in search of prey. It is only 
 when thus awaiting at its partly open door that it can be well seen ; at 
 the least movement of the observer or at sight of his approach the spider 
 plunges into its burrow, the lid drops heavily, being borne down by the 
 mass of soil accumulate^ at the crest (cr), and when closed it so closely 
 resembles, the surrounding surface that it is nearly impossible to discover it. 
 Here, now, is the one link which was wanting to entirely connect the 
 architecture of the Lycosids with that of the Tunnelweavers, and complete 
 that resemblance which I had pointed out. The series as thus completed 
 may be arranged as represented at Figs. 20-32. Mr. Wagner has referred 
 to the general likeness between the nest of his Opifex and that of the 
 typical Trapdoor spiders, Ncmcsia or Cteniza, but has dwelt even more upon 
 
34 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR Sl'INNlNGWORK. 
 
 the differences. He calls attention to the fact that Cteniza's door consists 
 of a series of superimposed layers of silk and mud, amounting sometimes 
 to thirty, 1 is thick, of equal width, and beveled at the edge ; while Opifex 
 makes a thin door composed of a single layer of silk and soil, much thicker 
 in front, and with unbeveled edge. The hinge of the former is also tough 
 and elastic, while the latter is feeble and with little elasticity. All this is 
 true, but Mr. Wagner appears to have lost sight of the fact that the Ter- 
 ritelarise embrace many species besides Nemesia and Cteniza whose indus- 
 try is greatly varied in form, and furnishes examples much nearer that of 
 Wagner's species than the one with which he compares it. Moggridge has 
 called attention to these in that form of trapdoor which he calls the 
 "wafer" type as distinguished from the "cork" type. 2 The latter is the 
 form with which alone Mr. Wagner appears to have been familiar, while 
 the former more closely resembles his own interesting discovery. 
 
 The eminent French araneologist, M. Eugene Simon, has added greatly 
 to our knowledge of these aranead architects, and I have quoted freely 3 
 
 Comparative view ot Lyoosid auchitectvire 
 
 Fig. 28. Lycosa scutulata, simple burrow in the ground; a temporary closure for moulting and cocoon- 
 ing. Fig. 29. Funnel shaped tube of silk, more or less supported and disguised by vegetable foliage and 
 debris; Lycosa tigrina. Fig. 30. Turret of silk protected by armor of twigs or grass bits ; Lycosa arenicola. 
 Fig. 31. Vestibule of silk, armored with moss, etc., with a rude door, Lycosa tigrina. FIG. 82. Silk lined 
 burrow, with wafer trapdoor at surface; Tarentula opifex. 
 
 from his papers and given a number of illustrations exhibiting the appar- 
 ent development of this peculiar industry, from the mere straight burrow 
 to the beautiful silk lined tube of Cteniza, crowned with its admirable 
 hinged trapdoor. In this series is one, the nest of Stothis astuta, 4 a South 
 American species, which in its general characteristics resembles that of 
 Wagner's Basketlid spider. The same wafer door is found upon the nest 
 of another species, Dolichoscaptus Latastei Simon, which builds a columnar 
 turret covered with a movable lid. 6 We are thus able to construct a double 
 comparative series of nests, one from the Lycosids, the other from the Ter- 
 ritelarise, which will show the following facts : First, a progressive* advance- 
 ment from the simple tubular burrow in the ground to a silken lined bur- 
 row covered by a hinged lid. Second, the various stages of the two series 
 
 1 See Vol. II. of this work, page 249 and Fig. 2(>4. 
 
 2 " Harvesting Ants and Trapdoor Spiders." 
 
 3 See Vol. II. of his work, page 409, sq. 
 
 * Vol. II, page 412, Figs. 347-349. 
 5 Vol. II, page 411, Fig. 346. 
 
SOCIAL ITABITS OP SPIDERS. 35 
 
 on the one hand correspond generally with the several stages on the other. 
 Third, on the whole, the mechanical skill of the Tunnelweavers gives 
 a more finished product. Fourth, progression in both series is from an 
 equally primitive habitat upward to the most complex and complete, thus 
 making the two series entirely independent, and not the one a continuation 
 of and development from the other. 
 
 I am quite aware that this language is analogical and nothing more, 
 as there is no information in my possession which permits us to think of 
 the Tunnelweavers and their industrial habits as actually developed from 
 the Lycosids (or the reverse) in any sense known to science. Nor is there 
 evidence of improvement in the nesting skill of any single species, within 
 which the character of the architecture is persistently unchanged. Nor is 
 there proof of a gradation in the architecture of any species corresponding 
 with the faunal position of the architect. My purpose is simply to point 
 out the marked analogies which present themselves in the study of the 
 architecture of the various species of the two suborders: For a grouping 
 of facts which seem to extend this analogy, as to the essential factor of a 
 tubular web, over the wider field of the entire order Araneaj, the reader is 
 referred to my Vol. I., Chapter XVIII. 
 
 X. 
 
 In a preceding volume of this work 1 I have considered with some de- 
 tail the tendency of spiders to assemble in communities. The observations 
 g . , of Darwin, Azara, and others on what they supposed to be the 
 Spiders. g ro S ai "i° us ° 1 ' social habits of adult spiders are there noticed, and 
 the opinion expressed that the examples cited were accidental 
 assemblages of individuals held together in close neighborhood by various 
 favorable circumstances, but with individual metes and bounds more or less 
 distinctly marked. Nevertheless, in view of the possibilities of Nature, such 
 a conclusion was held with reservation. I there further show that, in the 
 babyhood of numerous species, spiderlings quite invariably maintain assem- 
 blages, and dwell together peacefully, or at least with few breaches 
 Comnm- 0t £ratem %; a state of amity which is maintained until Nature 
 nities. prompts the individuals to a wicler individual life, at which time 
 the assemblages are broken up, and the natural solitary habit 
 and ferocity of the order assert themselves. 
 
 I have often pondered whether this strong habit, fixed upon the early 
 life of spiders, might not have formed a basis for the development, in adult 
 life, of some such companionship, fraternity, and unity as mark the social 
 Hymenoptera, so well illustrated in ants and wasps. It does not at first 
 thought seem strange that a habit so marked in babyhood should be car- 
 ried forward and become permanent in adult character and life. Yet, so 
 
 1 Vol. II., pages 230-241. 
 
36 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 M. Si- 
 mon's 
 Studies. 
 
 far as my observations warranted, I could find nothing to justify such con- 
 jecture, and the records examined did not seem sufficiently clear to permit 
 an opposite opinion. 
 
 Since the issue of my work, however, some remarkable and most inter- 
 esting observations have been published by the eminent araneologist, M. 
 
 Eugene Simon, of Paris, 1 
 which have induced me to 
 review the subject. 
 In a paper pre- 
 sented to the En- 
 tomological Soci- 
 ety of France, February, 
 1891, he relates and illus- 
 trates the habits of certain 
 so called sociable spiders 
 representing several families, 
 observed by him during his 
 voyage to Venezuela, South 
 America, during the winter 
 and spring of 1887-'88. This 
 sociability presented several 
 degrees. It was sometimes 
 temporary and limited to 
 the period of reproduction ; 
 sometimes permanent. In 
 some cases the work exe- 
 cuted was absolutely com- 
 mon and alike for all indi- 
 viduals of the community ; 
 in others, the common work 
 did not exclude some por- 
 tion of individual work. 
 With these qualifications he 
 proceeds to classify the so- 
 ciable spiders of Venezuela 
 in three categories. 
 Epeira bandelieri, ordinarily, does not appear to differ in habits from 
 typical Epeiras. Its web is the normal solitary one, but at the time of 
 laying their eggs several females unite and construct in common, upon a 
 bush, a large shell or cocoon case, of a yellow and woolly tissue, in which 
 they proced to lay their eggs and fabricate their cocoons. (Fig. 33.) These 
 
 Fig. 33. Common incubating nest of Epeira bandelieri. 
 Fio. 34. A single cocoon. (After Simon.) 
 
 1 Observations Biologizes sur les Arachnides, Soc. Entomol. de France, 1891. By M. 
 Eugene Simon. 
 
SOCIAL HABITS OF SPIDERS. 37 
 
 are of a thick fibre, analagous to the cocoons of Argiope, 1 are rounded 
 upon one face, almost flat upon the other, and attached to the walls of 
 the incubating chamber by a short pedicle. (Fig. 33.) M. Simon 
 E . had found many of these shells enclosing as high as ten cocoons, 
 
 and "five or six females sharing together the cares of maternity." 
 He did not know what might have transpired at the moment of hatching, but 
 thought it probable that the shell would be found at that time filled with 
 a large number of young Epeiras. He had received from Quito another 
 species of the same genus, of which the societies ought to be more numer- 
 ous, if one may judge by the series of cocoons disposed in wreaths, which 
 had been sent to him. But the cocoons of this species are spherical, and 
 tied together by a loose wadding without being enclosed within a case. 
 
 This last named feature is not uncommon, as may be seen by refer- 
 ence to my observations of cocooning habits. 2 There seems to be a de- 
 cided, and in some cases entire, suspension of pugnacity and 
 Pugna- ordinary appetite in the females at the time of ovipositing. So 
 
 , , intense are they upon discharging the functions of Nature, and 
 so pressing the necessity which is upon them, that they appear 
 to have no place in their organism for any other passion or appetite, but 
 push straight on, before whatever difficulties or dangers, in the discharge 
 of their maternal duties. At such times they appear quite indifferent to 
 the presence of other spiders engaged in like work ; and as it falls out 
 that the same retreats are sought by various mothers of the same or of 
 different species and genera, they often do come together in such places, 
 as, for example, under the canopy of a bit of bark (Fig. 55, Vol. II.), or 
 in the angle of a convenient wall or cornice (Fig. 60, Vol. II.). 
 
 In such cases, one mother will lay her cocoon close by that of another. 
 The first made cocoon will be overlapped in part by the spinningwork of 
 the second, the second by the third, and so on till a series closely wrapped 
 together may be produced. (Vol. II., Fig. 00.) All this, however, as is 
 manifest, is done without any collusion ; it is a fortuitous result, and is 
 wrought by spiders whose solitary habits are undoubted, and therefore it 
 is no proof of sociability. 
 
 It would be more difficult, however, to explain on such a principle 
 the preparation of the silken shell of Epeira bandelieri as described by 
 M. Simon. It certainly does present at first view the seeming 
 A Com- f an intentional provision, made in common by a number of 
 mon ncu ' individuals, who must have been moved by some common im- 
 Chamber P iuse which contains some element of sociability. Had the dis- 
 tinguished French naturalist observed the construction of this 
 common enclosure or incubating chamber there would be little room for 
 doubt; but as he appears to reason rather from the specimens as they 
 
 1 See Vol. II., page 76 of this work. 2 Vol. II., page 85. 
 
38 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 had been collected by him after construction, I can hardly forbear the 
 feeling that even this structure may be accounted for on the same prin- 
 ciple as above, without bringing to bear upon it the theory of a social 
 community. It is a most interesting point which can only be elucidated 
 by future observation. 
 
 Simon docs indeed say that tbo incubating chamber, with its included 
 ten cocoons, lias five or six females who have assumed the duties of mater- 
 nity. Did he observe these in the joint act of constructing the case ? If 
 not, did he reach this conclusion by rinding the dead bodies of several 
 females enclosed within the chamber along with their cocoons? If he 
 did not observe the actual construction of the outer case, his inference 
 that the enclosed cocoons must have been the work of several females 
 could only have come from the fact that five or six adult females were 
 found inside. In the absence of this definite information one is perhaps 
 justified in suspecting that the cocoons, as described, may have been en- 
 closed by one mother. 
 
 The number is indeed large as compared with that produced by the 
 
 ordinary Orbweaver, but by no means peculiar; for, as I have shown, 1 
 
 Cyclosa bifurca produces as many as thirteen cocoons, which are 
 
 Mothers Doun d together by a flossy string. The Basilica spider 2 encloses 
 
 _, five cocoons within an exterior case of like tissue, which she 
 many Oo- 
 coons. spins above her snare. Theridium serpentinum 3 will produce as 
 
 many as eight cocoons, which are assembled close to one another 
 at the top of her meshed net, and enclosed within thickened walls of spin- 
 ningwork. Yet more striking, perhaps, is the cocoon string of Segestria 
 canities, 4 which contains as many as twelve cocoons overlapping one another 
 like the tiles upon a roof, and overlaid with a thick sheet of spinningwork, 
 which is further protected by a rude thatch of leaves collected from the 
 bush upon which it hangs. The spider's tubular home is woven at one 
 side of her treasures, and the whole is surrounded by an external maze of 
 network supported upon the branches of adjoining shrubbery. These cases 
 at least demonstrate that the example of spinningwork described by M. 
 Simon might have been the product of one mother's industry. 
 
 Whatever may be the truth as to the above point, these two facts are 
 clear, viz., first, that the exhibition of sociability, if Simon's view be ac- 
 cepted, is limited to a few hours, or at most days. It is an inci- 
 
 nc u " dental characteristic, and does not entitle the species to be called 
 sions. . * 
 
 social any more than the fraternal communism of young spiders 
 
 during the first few days after issuing from the egg. Second, even if the 
 
 incubating chamber of Epeira bandelieri be the product of joint labor, the 
 
 fact is only faintly comparable to the highly organized communal indus- 
 
 1 Vol. II., page 103, Fig. 96. 3 Ibid., page 112, Fig. 108. 
 
 2 Ibid., page 105, Figs. 98, 99. 4 Ibid., page 136, Figs. 165, 166. 
 
iTV 
 
 CIAI, HABITS OF SPIDERS. 
 
 39 
 
 tries of the social Hymenoptera, and the use of the word " social " in 
 this restricted sense is deceptive. 
 
 XI. 
 
 The element of sociability appears to be much more highly developed 
 with a Linewcaver which Mr. Simon describes as Anelosimus socialis, a 
 species belong- 
 
 Social 
 
 Theridi 
 
 oids. 
 
 ing to the fam- 
 ily Theridiidse. 
 Many hundreds, 
 perhaps thousands of this 
 species spin a common 
 web, soft and transparent, 
 but of a compact tissue 
 analogous to that woven 
 by Agalena. This snare 
 is of indeterminate form, 
 and sometimes attains im- 
 mense dimensions, even 
 enveloping an entire coffee 
 tree. At first sight it ap- 
 pears more like the spin- 
 ningwork of sociable cat- 
 erpillars than of spiders. 
 When one opens the ex- 
 terior envelope he sees 
 that the interior is divided 
 by silken partitions into 
 irregular lodges ; within 
 these the spiders freely 
 move about, and upon 
 meeting touch one another, 
 as do ants, with their an- 
 tennae, and sometimes a 
 number of them will be 
 seen feeding upon the 
 same prey. The cocoons 
 
 are rounded, formed of floeculent wadding of an iron gray color, are with- 
 out pedicles, and are fixed to the common web by threads which form a 
 soft net. 
 
 Upon this statement and the figure t>f M. Simon, which I reproduce in 
 Fig. 35, I remark that the phenomenon is explicable by the ordinary habits 
 of young spiders. This I have fully illustrated in Section V., Chapter 
 VIII., Vol. II. Such an assemblage as there shown (Fig. 251) differs 
 
 35. Common leafy tent of Anelosimus socialis. 
 Fig. 36. Cocoons of same. (After Simon.) 
 
40 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 from that of Anelosimus socialis simply in extent. The habit of young 
 spiders, immediately after their exit from the cocoon, is to surround them- 
 selves on all sides with a close tissue of just such spinningwork as M. 
 Simon describes. One of the most remarkable of these I have described 
 (Vol. II., page 227, Fig. 254), where the enclosing tent of the young brood 
 covered a large working table and extended upwards to the ceiling of the 
 room. I have seen some colonies covering a space eight or ten feet in 
 length and four or five in width. I have also observed a large space of 
 a vine or bush enclosed in a similar manner by broods of Epeira, one of 
 which is described in this volume, in the chapter on Moulting Habits. 
 
 Now, it is only required that the broods of several cocoons, left by 
 mothers in the same neighborhood, should issue at one time, to 
 Tenting produce the results figured by the French savant. These colo- 
 Com- mes wou id certainly, as I can affirm from observation, unite 
 rnons o fj ie j r spinningwork, while retaining a degree of separation, and 
 lings so enc l° se an immense space, overweaving leaves, and uniting 
 
 the interspaces by a soft but, compact fibre, precisely of the sort 
 made by the Venezuela species. 
 
 I am at a loss to determine from Simon's language whether he is de- 
 scribing the work of several broods of spiderlings or the work of adult 
 females. It is true that he speaks of the cocoon, and indeed figures it 
 (Fig. 36) ; but he may have done this from an empty cocoon found in 
 the midst of the colonial tent after abandonment by its inmates, as I have 
 many times found cocoons. Until this point is settled, I feel constrained 
 to say that there is nothing peculiar in this habit of this species, and 
 nothing to justify one in regarding it as more sociable than other Thcr- 
 idioid spiders. 
 
 One fact, indeed, looks in the opposite direction ; namely, that the 
 spiders when meeting touch one another after the fashion of ants, who 
 are well known to cross their antennae for purposes of recognition. I have 
 frequently observed a habit similar to this in the case of young spiders 
 while in the period of assemblage immediately after issuing. They do 
 touch each other with their fore paws, and even with their palps ; though 
 I should say that the manner is not strictly homologous with that of the 
 ants, but it is only in a general way analogous thereto. If, however, the 
 spiders described by M. Simon as engaged in constructing the tented 
 domicile which he figures, were adult females, and if they have so far 
 sunken their voracious and pugnacious habits as to recognize each other 
 by palpal touch, and thereupon pass by without a hostile attempt, we 
 have, indeed, a most remarkable fact, and one which relates the habits of 
 spiders to those of the highest of the insects, in one of their most in- 
 teresting features. The uses of a spider's palps are indeed various ; but, 
 as far as I know, the above observation stands alone in attributing to 
 those organs such a function. 
 
SOCIAL HABITS OF SPIDERS. 
 
 41 
 
 XII. 
 
 A third type of assemblage was observed by Mr. Simon in a species of 
 Uloborus (U. republieanus), which is declared to be much more perfect, 
 because it presents at the same time a common snare contributed 
 Uloborus jjy a n t j ie j )ar t nerS; aiK ] an individual snare proper to each one. 
 canus Many hundreds of this Uloborus live together ; they spin between 
 the trees an immense web, formed of a central net quite compact, 
 upon which many individuals of the two sexes hang side by side, but these 
 assemblages are chiefly composed of males. This net is suspended by long- 
 threads diverging in all directions, and attached to surrounding objects. 
 In the intervals of the open spaces formed by these large threads other 
 Ulobori hang upon their orbicular snares, in rays and circles, each one of 
 which is occupied by a single individual. One may see from time to time 
 a spider detach itself from the central group, in order to seek among the 
 upper cables a suitable place for 
 the fabrication of its orbicular 
 web. 
 
 It is the central net that ap- 
 pears to serve as the place of 
 
 _ ,. pairing, as far as the 
 Guarding , , , 
 
 Cocoons. observer wa s able to 
 judge by the quantity 
 of males which were there gath- 
 ered together. There, at least, it 
 is certain that the hatching of 
 the eggs takes place. This ap- 
 pears to occur almost simultane- 
 ously among all the females of 
 the same colon}'. At that time 
 the males have disappeared, the 
 females have ceased to spin their regular snares, and hang motionless 
 upon their central net, a few centimetres distant from each other, each one 
 guarding her cocoon. (Fig. 37.) The cocoon itself is most singular in 
 shape, and resembles more a bit of vegetable fibre accidentally fallen upon 
 the snare than the spinningwork of a spider. In its general features it 
 resembles the cocoons of our American Uloborus. (Vol. II., page 107, 
 Fig. 103.) 
 
 The habits of this Uloborus differ little in their general characteristics 
 from those of our American species. I have elsewhere described their tend- 
 ency to hold rather closely to the neighborhood in which they were hatched, 
 so that their snares may be seen in close contiguity. Indeed, other species 
 of Orbweavers have the same tendency ; and I have observed a number 
 of small snares of young specimens spun upon the broad sheeted common 
 
 Fifi. 37. Females of Uloborus republicunus with their 
 hanging cocoons. 
 
42 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 which had been woven by the brood in their babyhood assemblage. Snares 
 of the Labyrinth spider are often seen thus closely placed, and in point 
 
 of fact the same may be said of almost all Orbweavers under 
 Orbweav- f av01 .j n g conditions. I have described an assemblage of Zillas 
 ^? g . , whose snares were as closely placed as those of Uloborus repub- 
 borhoods hcanus, the foundation lines thereof being supported by the iron 
 
 railing and columns upon the footway at the sluice where the 
 waters of Loch Katrine pass down into Loch Achray, in the Trossachs 
 Glen of Scotland. So also with the snares of our most common indig- 
 enous Epeiras, which one may see at times so closely placed along the 
 
 surface of a stable wall or other favoring site that the founda- 
 Not So- t j on ] mes thereof are interblcnded, on the one side and the other, 
 cial Com-g. v j ng to ^ cagua i gi ance the appearance of a widely distrib- 
 ' uted colony. Yet, in point of fact, all these are simply examples 
 of the contiguous placing of snares by individuals known to have no 
 particle of social habit, and which are as absolutely distinct as though 
 miles apart. I am constrained to believe that there is no more evi- 
 dence of a really social community, analogous to that established among 
 ants, wasps, and other social Hymenoptera, in *the assemblages of U. re- 
 publicanus described by M. Simon, than in the examples which I have 
 thus cited. 
 
 The assembling of the two sexes upon the outlying threads surrounding 
 the orbicular snares has something more the appearance of friendliness. 
 It would seem, indeed, that here we have an evidence that individuals are 
 drawn together by some social tendency. Yet even in this fact one can 
 see nothing absolutely conclusive of a really social habit ; for it must be 
 remembered that M. Simon notes that most of these individuals, thus found 
 congregated upon the netted suburbs of the true snares, were males, a fact 
 which is quite in accordance with the habits of that sex. I have elsewhere 
 shown (Vol. II., page 21), that as many as three or four males have been 
 observed by me hanging upon the outer precincts of the orb of an Argiope 
 or of Epeira labyrinthea. I am inclined to think that the examples de- 
 scribed by Simon may be thus explained ; for although males of Orb- 
 weavers are disposed to quarrel with each other at times, they do also 
 exhibit a remarkable degree of good temper, or at least absence of pug- 
 nacity, when thus waiting at the gates of their lady's bower. In view of 
 all these observations, which appear to carry the habits of araneads nearer 
 to those of social insects than any yet published, I am compelled to say 
 that further facts are required before we can pronounce the author's con- 
 clusions to be well established. It is much to be hoped that M. Simon 
 may have the opportunity to reexamine the facts which he has communi- 
 cated, and thus add the unquestionable solution of this most interesting 
 problem to the brilliant service which he has rendered in that branch of 
 natural science of which he has made himself a master. 
 
SOCIAL HABITS OF SPIDERS. 43 
 
 Another observation looking in the same direction has been recorded 
 since my work went to press. Rev. 0. P. Cambridge 1 describes a spider 
 of the family Eresida) whose nest came under observation in the 
 A Grega- London Zoological Society's Gardens. It was sent thither by 
 nous Colonel Bowker from Durban to Lord Walsingham, who at Mr. 
 ~ . Cambridge's suggestion sent it to the Gardens. The nest con- 
 London, tained from one hundred to one hundred and fifty living indi- 
 viduals of both sexes, some adult, some immature, and remained 
 in their temporary home for some time in an active and thriving state. 
 
 The nest filled a box two feet long by nine inches wide and five inches 
 deep. No detailed description of the home or habits of the colony is given, 
 but it would appear to have been simply a mass of threads so thickly 
 woven that they formed in places a close tissue something like that which 
 Phidippus opifex (McCook) of California makes for herself on a much 
 smaller scale. (Vol. II., page 150, Fig. 185.) That this spider is a social 
 one may be inferred from the above scant description, and Mr. Cambridge's 
 statement that the species is " unique in its gregarious habits." He notes 
 that the individuals " appear to devour cockroaches and crickets, tearing 
 them to pieces in concert." This statement, however, is somewhat neu- 
 tralized by the additional remark that each " carries off his share of the 
 prey, like a pack of hounds breaking up a fox." It is earnestly to be 
 hoped that detailed notes and drawings of this " family " have been 
 kept by some trustworthy observer in the Zoological Gardens. Such a 
 rare opportunity ought* to have yielded data for definitely determining 
 this most interesting problem. 
 
 1 Proceed. Zool. Soc., London, 1889, pages 34, 42, pi. ii., Figs. 4 and 5. 
 
CHAPTER II. 
 
 MEMORY, MIMICRY, AND PARASITISM. 
 
 I. 
 
 An interesting example of the power of spiders to adapt themselves 
 and their industry to circumstances occurred under my observation in the 
 case of a Turret spider, Lycosa arenicola. Wishing to preserve 
 Intelh- a ncg (. ^ s ^ U( ]y t ne jjf e history of its occupant, I carefully took 
 Memo a P * ne soc ^ containing the tube, carrying away with me several 
 inches in depth of the burrow. The upper and lower openings 
 were plugged with cotton to retain the spider during transit. Upon arrival 
 
 of the nest in Philadelphia 
 the cotton plug guarding the 
 entrance was removed, but 
 the other was forgotten, and 
 thus allowed to remain. The 
 nest with the enclosing sod 
 was imbedded in the soil in- 
 side of a tub, and the spider 
 left to work out naturally its 
 industrial instincts. It im- 
 mediately began removing 
 the cotton at the bottom of 
 its burrow, and cast some of 
 it out upon the surface. But 
 finally, guided, apparently by 
 its sense of touch, to the 
 knowledge that the softer 
 fibres of the cotton would be an excellent material with which to line its 
 tube, she put it to that use, and had soon spread a smooth layer over the 
 inner surface and upon the opening. In this manner the interior was 
 padded for about four inches from the summit of the tower downward. 
 It may be taken for granted that this Turret spider for the first time had 
 come in contact with such material as cotton, and had immediately utilized 
 its new experience by substituting the soft fibre for the ordinary silken 
 lining, or rather by adding it thereto. This nest, with the cotton wadding, 
 is represented at Fig. 38. The cotton was distributed quite evenly over the 
 
 (44) 
 
 ^^ 
 
 Cotton lined nest of Turret spider. 
 
MEMORY OF SPIDERS. 45 
 
 walls of the burrow and tower, and had evidently been beaten down and 
 pushed in after the manner of Lycosids and Agalenads when beating in the 
 spinningwork of their cocoons and the silk lining of their burrows and 
 tubes. 
 
 Mrs. Treat having learned how this spider, which had been taken from 
 her grounds, had used the cotton, was led to make several experiments. 
 She placed cotton by the side of seventeen burrows, both of the Turret 
 and Tiger spiders, situated upon her lawn, and found eight of the number 
 used the cotton as a lining, but none as artistically as the one above de- 
 scribed. She then went to the edge of a wood, some distance away, and 
 placed cotton by the side of eleven burrows there located. None of the 
 occupants availed themselves of the artificial lining. This seems a curious 
 fact, but the theory which the author uses to account for it, namely, that 
 the individuals upon the lawn must have been descendants of species col- 
 onized from New England in the neighborhood of a cotton manufactory, 
 can hardly be accepted. My recollection is that 
 all these creatures were natives of New Jersey. 
 I am sure at least that the one which wove 
 the cotton lining for me was a native New Jer- 
 seyman. 
 
 One specimen of those situated upon the 
 
 lawn not only used the cotton fibre for the lin- ^^Jv^^*^^~^ 
 
 ing, but also for a cover or door of its dwell- 
 
 ing. This door she made smooth on 
 
 /-"„j.*.„ the side, and fastened it firmly down 
 
 OOttOn. * f i0 . 39. Cotton utilized for a door. 
 
 on the outer edge of her wall. (Fig. 
 39.) She did not make the same use of the cotton that she would of 
 soft moss, which she sometimes uses in building. The fibre of the cot- 
 ton was drawn out and interwoven among the sticks around the upper 
 portion of the tower, and made to take the place of ordinary web work. 1 
 I have this nest in my collection and give a drawing thereof, Fig. 39. 
 The use of the cotton is curious and interesting, and remotely suggestive 
 of a door, perhaps. But such use is not clearly shown. These examples 
 suggest no little elasticity of intellect on the part of these spiders, for 
 they were at once able to perceive the usefulness of the new material 
 brought within the range of their experience, and easily adapted it to their 
 special needs in lining the interior of their towers. Were they conscious 
 that such soft, pliable material permitted economy of silk secretion, and 
 could that have been a motive for its use ? These facts start a most inter- 
 esting train of reflection and conjecture, and suggest a fruitful field of 
 inquiry and experiment to one who may have both disposition and oppor- 
 tunity to engage therein. 
 
 1 My Garden Pets, page 82. 
 
46 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 II. 
 
 I took a female Epeira trifolium from her nest in order to observe 
 the changes of color. She was kept within a glass vessel for forty-eight 
 
 hours, and then returned to her old web and placed upon it near 
 Memory t ] ie cen t re f he we b was about as when she left it. She paused 
 ° "about a half minute, seized the trapline, taking precisely the 
 
 position and in the exact spot which she had occupied for sev- 
 eral days before. Did she remember her nest after the forty-eight hours' 
 interval ? The same fact as to memory of local snare and nest was tested 
 upon another Trifolium, with the same results. The example above quoted 
 indicates that Epeira trifolium preserved during twenty-four to forty-eight 
 hours a recollection, or at least a perception of some sort, of its old quar- 
 ters within its home nest. 
 
 Yet stronger examples may be cited of spiders remembering their 
 homes. The Trapdoor spider, for example, that constructs its ingenious 
 hinged door upon a bed of moss or lichen, and then covers the lid with 
 plants precisely like those surrounding it, when it leaves its den and 
 goes out upon excursions for food, and returns without difficulty to its 
 home, certainly has preserved distinct recollection of the location of that 
 home. 
 
 Again, the Tiger spider makes a burrow underneath beds of moss, 
 erecting over it a vestibule or dome composed of the material everywhere 
 
 surrounding the spot. From this she sallies forth into the vici- 
 Sense of na g e) often making wide excursions after prey, and returns 
 ?. oc either by day or night to her nest, notwithstanding its general 
 
 likeness to the environment. This is true of Lycosids generally. 
 The mother Lycosa in the cocooning period oftens erects a cell or cave, 
 underneath a stone or' in like positions, which is partly lined with silk, 
 and sometimes has a pretty approach to the surface between the sprays 
 of grass, clover, or other vegetation, as may be seen in Vol. II., page 144, 
 Fig. 175, with the nest of Lycosa scutulata. 1 From this retreat Lycosa 
 will sally forth after food,, dragging her egg sac behind her. It may seem 
 a little strange that she should do so, and one might be inclined to think 
 her rather stupid not to leave this treasure at home. Nevertheless, she 
 attaches it to her spinnerets, and carries it with her in all her excursions, 
 and thereby, no doubt, saves it from parasitic and other enemies. Having 
 secured her food she returns to her cell, and notwithstanding the manner 
 in which it is secreted, finds it without difficulty. 
 
 So also Saltigrade spiders, and others of like habit, who issue from 
 their silken cells to stalk their prey on walls and trees, appear to find their 
 way to their homes without difficulty. These facts indicate on the part of 
 
 1 This species is there erroneously given as Lycosa saccata. 
 
MIMICRY OF SPIDERS. 47 
 
 these spiders a good memory of the location of their domiciles, and a sense 
 of direction sufficiently developed to bring them upon the return path with 
 accuracy. 
 
 Of course there is nothing remarkable about this, for such facts are 
 true of the insect world generally. It is known by all bee hunters, and by 
 
 all keepers of bees, that either the wild or the hive bee will find 
 " sec its way home after a long excursion in search of honey. So 
 
 also I have frequently observed the mud dauber wasp erecting 
 its clay cell upon a wall or building, making excursions to all points to 
 secure mud for her masonry, and invariably return with her mandible 
 hod full to complete her nidus. The same accuracy of memory, again, is 
 shown when, having finished her nest, she prowls through all the neighbor- 
 hood in search of spiders, winging her course to all points of the com- 
 pass, prying into nooks and crannies and out of the way places, mousing 
 under leaves and diving into flowers, and yet always directing her return 
 course without the slightest hesitation to her mud daub cell. It is need- 
 less to multiply such examples, and I only allude to them to show that 
 in this respect the spider is not peculiar, but is gifted, like other Arthro- 
 pods, with a memory sufficient for all the purposes of its life. 
 
 III. 
 
 Mr. F. M. Webster recently wrote me from the Ohio Agricultural Ex- 
 periment Station (February 17th, 1892) a note which contributes an inter- 
 esting item to the subject of mimicry as discussed Vol. II., 
 S^ 10 !* Chapter XII., especially under Color Mimicry and Mimicry of 
 Environment, page 367. A spider observed by him had mimicked 
 the white excreta of birds so perfectly as to deceive this thoroughly trained 
 and accurate observer. The color of the spider was whitish, with the 
 dorsal abdominal portion clouded with blackish, exactly resembling a mass 
 of bird droppings. The deception was further carried out by the spider 
 having spun a thin irregular sheet of white web on an elm leaf, in the 
 midst of which it was situated with legs drawn up. At the distance of a 
 few feet the observer was completely deceived ; he thought it the excre- 
 ment of a bird until he had the leaf in his hand. The appearance of 
 the semisolid mass within the white splash of semifluid matter was so 
 closely counterfeited, that Mr. Webster says he was truly provoked that 
 such an animal could so befool his eyes after all his years of training. 
 Judging from the general description sent, I infer the species to be our 
 old friend Misumena vatia, so famous both in America and elsewhere for 
 its color mimicry. 
 
 Mr. Webster's observation is all the more interesting because of its exact 
 correspondence with one of which he was not informed until I called his 
 attention to it, which has received considerable attention from naturalists. 
 
48 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Mr. Henry O. Forbes relates a similar experience of deception. 1 He had 
 been allured into a vain chase after a large stately flitting butterfly (Hestia) 
 through a thicket of Pandanus horridus, when on a bush that obstructed 
 further pursuit he observed one of the Hesperida? resting on a leaf upon 
 a splash of bird dropping. He had often observed small Blues at rest on 
 similar spots on the ground, and had wondered what the members of such 
 a refined and beautifully painted family (Lycenidse) could find to enjoy in 
 
 food so seemingly incongruous for a butterfly. He approached 
 Mimicry xv j t j a g en tle steps and ready net to see, if possible, how the present 
 of Bird ^dividual was engaged. It permitted him to get quite close, 
 
 and even to seize it between his fingers. To his surprise, however, 
 part of the body remained behind; and in adhering, as he thought, to the 
 excreta it recalled an observation of Mr. Wallace's on certain Coleoptera 
 falling a prey to their inexperience by boring in the' bark of trees, in whose 
 exuding gum they became unwittingly entombed. He looked closely at the 
 excreta to find if it were glutinous, and finally touched it with the tip of 
 his finger. To his delighted astonishment he found that his eyes had been 
 most perfectly deceived, and that the excreta was a most artfully colored 
 spider lying on its back, with its feet crossed over and closely adpressed 
 to the body. 
 
 The appearance of recent bird droppings on a leaf is well known. Its 
 central and denser portion is a pure white chalk like color, streaked here 
 
 and there with black, and surrounded by a thin border of the 
 Ornitho- (j r i e( j U p m ore fluid part, which, as the leaf is rarely horizontal, 
 , . . often runs a little way towards the margin. The spider observed 
 
 by Mr. Forbes, like that seen by Mr. Webster, was pure chalk 
 white in general color, with the lower portions of its first and second pairs 
 of legs and a spot on the head and abdomen jet black. 2 It had woven 
 on the surface of the leaf, after the fashion of its family, an irregularly 
 shaped web of fine texture, which was drawn up towards the sloping mar- 
 gin of the leaf into a narrow streak, with a slightly thickened termination. 
 This form, as described by Mr. Forbes, was doubtless determined by 
 the concavity of the leaf, and the facility which the slightly turned up 
 edges gave for making good points of adhesion, at the same time leaving 
 a little space between the netted spinningwork and the leaf's surface over 
 which it was stretched. According to Mr. Forbes, the spider takes its place 
 on its back upon this irregular spinningwork, holding itself in position by 
 means of the spinal armature of the legs thrust underneath the web, and 
 crosses its legs over its thorax. I do not remember to have observed any 
 Thomisoi'ds in this position, but have always seen them crouching with 
 back upward when not using a web. I would suppose that if they used 
 
 1 A Naturalist's Wanderings in the Eastern Archipelago, 1885, pages 63, 04. 
 
 2 Rev. O. P. Cambridge describes it as Ornithoscatoi'des decipiens. 
 
MIMICKY OP SPIDERS. 49 
 
 u snare at all they would rest underneath the same with their backs down- 
 ward toward the leaf, after the fashion of many other spiders. However, 
 Mr. Forbes is so precise in his statement that one feels it necessary to 
 accept it. As thus arranged, he speaks of the whole combination of spider 
 and web as being " so artfully contrived " as to deceive a pair of human 
 eyes intently examining it. 
 
 This similarity of habit in spiders of the same family, at such widely 
 separated points as Java and the United States, is in itself interesting. It 
 
 is also interesting to notice that two thoroughly trained observers 
 A Case should have independently named the same rather outre object 
 °^ An ~ as the one suggested by the spider's mimicry. Nevertheless, one 
 mor- P °" * s mcnne ^ to think that the suggestion of mimicry is a bit 
 phism. °f anthropomorphism. Because suggested to the mind of the 
 
 observer, it does not follow that any such deception had been 
 devised by the spider. All the individuals of this family and tribe are in 
 the habit of seeking their prey chiefly upon trees and plants of various 
 sorts, stones, et cetera. They may often be found upon the white or whit- 
 ish gray spots, or upon dried bits of lichen or moss found on plants. In 
 such positions they certainly strongly suggest the idea of intentional mim- 
 icry. However, in point of fact, the combination might have been acci- 
 dental so far as the spider is concerned. In the cases observed by Messrs. 
 Forbes and Webster there appears no reason to infer that so subtle a 
 process as that attributed to the spider could have found lodgment in its 
 mind. 
 
 At least, if we accept Mr. Forbes' theory of an artful contrivance, we 
 must conclude that this lowly organized animal could intelligently survey 
 the field, put this and that together, select certain spots for settlement 
 after determining its own color resemblance to such spots; then deliber- 
 ately proceed to spin a web which, in its general contour, would resemble 
 the particular form which semifluid masses are wont to assume in various 
 positions, according to the inclination of the plane upon which they fall ; 
 and then, further, arrange its own body in such relation to the web as to 
 
 present the appearance of mottled black and gray characteristic 
 Mimicry £ ^.^ droppings un der like circumstances. The ability for such 
 able mental processes would undoubtedly establish an order of intellect 
 
 and powers of observation and reasoning beyond those which we 
 are at present warranted in attributing to a spider. All the facts can be 
 accounted for, and are most naturally accounted for,- without introducing a 
 factor so strongly imaginary. I am disposed to think that the web as 
 described was spun in an ordinary position, in the form habitual to the 
 species, and in such locality as it usually frequents; moreover, that this 
 was done without any intention to perpetrate a mimicry such as the 
 observer fancied, and which in fact existed simply as an analogy in his 
 mind. 
 
50 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK 
 
 But excluding the idea of intentional deceit, the mimicry of Ornithosca- 
 toi'des has been explained as a product of evolution through natural selection 
 and survival of the fittest. The explanation implies that the 
 Evolu- existence of those individuals practicing the mimicry at first and 
 tion and acc j ( j enta Uy had been preserved by the greater abundance of food 
 Mimicry. ^ ^^ advantage gained thereby, until it became a permanent 
 habit. But we have only an inference that the habit is permanent in 
 Ornithoscatoi'des. The facts recorded by Mr. Forbes stand entirely alone, 
 and it seems more likely than otherwise that an extended observation of 
 that spider would show that the same condition obtains as to its habits 
 that we have observed in Misumena, and that it will be found to spin a 
 web substantially as described by Mr. Forbes, in many positions which 
 would preclude the supposition of usefulness through resemblance to the 
 excreta of birds ; as, for example, on the under side of leaves, underneath 
 limbs of trees, between and under stones, hedges, etc. 
 
 As to Misumena, we know that the case reported by Mr. Webster is abso- 
 lutely unique as yet ; knowing somewhat the general economy of this species 
 we can confidently affirm that the incident is exceptional. Misu- 
 The Mim- mena S p rcac l s her cocoon nest in various positions, and is by no 
 icry Ex- ]neang ij m it e d to such locations as described by Professor Web- 
 cep lona " ster. One of these positions has been described and figured in 
 Vol. II., page 152, Fig. 188. The general form of the cocoon nest is as 
 there exhibited, and in choosing the site thereof the mother appears to 
 give herself as wide range as do other species of the order. In other words, 
 she puts her cocoon and the nesting tube surrounding it in such place as 
 is most convenient to herself when the maternal function urges her to action. 
 
 The spinningwork described by Mr. Forbes 1 take to be the cocoon nest 
 of Ornithoscatoi'des, for it is not the habit of the Latcrigrades generally to 
 get their food by means of snares. They belong to the Wandering group 
 of spiders, and stalk their prey along shrubbery, branches of trees, rocks, 
 walls, etc. If this inference be correct, the peculiar web observed by Mr. 
 Forbes is limited to the cocooning period, at which time Laterigrade spiders 
 are usually found within or lurking around the little tent which overspins 
 their egg sac. It must follow that the effect of industrial mimicry upon 
 the preservation of that species must have been confined to a brief period 
 at the end of the spider's life. To account for such mimicry as a product 
 of the survival of the fittest through natural selection, one needs to con- 
 ceive of the selection as operative in the early and most impressible stages, 
 or at least during the active period of life, and not during the few days 
 immediately preceding death. 
 
 In the second volume of this work (Vol. II., page 340) I ventured to 
 express a suspicion, which I have sometimes entertained, that the color 
 surroundings of the spider, in some manner not now explicable, may so 
 
MIMICRY OF SPIDERS. 51 
 
 rapidly influence the organism of the creature that a change of color is 
 produced in harmony with its environment. I there raised this query : 
 Can a spider have the power to influence at will the chromatophores or 
 pigment bodies, so that she may change her color with the changing sites ? 
 Mr. H. H. J. Bell has recently communicated an observation 1 which 
 appears to be confirmatory of this suggestion. While traveling along the 
 
 West Coast of Africa between two small towns on the Gold Coast 
 Mimicry (August, 1892), he was attracted by the appearance of what he 
 
 supposed to be flowers upon the bushes bordering the path. On 
 examining these he found that they were the webs of an orbweaving spider, 
 whose spinningwork, according to the published description, resembles that 
 of Argiope, as heretofore fully described by me. The spider's body was a 
 light blue color ; and the legs, which were symmetrically disposed in the 
 shape of an X across a white ribboned hub, were yellow, ringed with brown. 
 The body of the spider resembled the corol of a flower, and the crossed 
 legs gave it the semblance of petals. Mr. Bell speaks of the illusion as 
 remarkable, and supposes this mimicry of an orchidlike flower serves not 
 merely to protect the spider, but rather as an attraction to butterflies and 
 other flower frequenting insects on which the aranead preys. 
 
 The most interesting part of the observation, however, is the strange 
 facility which the spider possessed of changing its color. Mr. Bell captured 
 
 her in a white gauze collecting net, which was placed beneath 
 Volition- j ier an( j j nto ^j^ s i ie dropped when disturbed, as is the custom 
 Changes °* man y species. As soon as she touched the net the blue body 
 
 color became white. On being shaken her body turned to a 
 dark greenish brown. She was then placed in a glass tube, and gradually 
 resumed her blue tint, but when shaken up always turned to a greenish 
 brown. When placed in spirits the spider's color became a gray brown, and 
 so remained. The observation was repeated with like result, except that 
 the second individual did not turn white, but passed immediately from 
 her normal blue into a dark greenish brown. I have no comments to make 
 upon this interesting and, as it seems to me, important observation, but 
 give it place here, as of undoubted value in its bearing upon the interest- 
 ing and perplexing problem of mimicry as it is presented in the life history 
 of the various aranead species. I have never observed and do not remem- 
 ber ever to have read of such instant and volitional changes of color. 
 The slight changes which I have noted in spiders having metallic colors 
 have been due to the play of light falling at and seen from different angles. 
 The numerous and striking changes in the Shamrock spider (Epeira trifo- 
 lium), so well illustrated in Plate I. of Vol. II., are produced gradually, 
 and cannot be compared with the chameleonlike changes of the blue Orb- 
 weaver observed by Mr. Bell. 
 
 1 Nature, April 13th, 1893, page 558. 
 
52 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNING WORK. 
 
 V. 
 
 The trapdoor building habit is remarkable in its distribution over nearly 
 every part of the globe in tropical and semitropical regions. From what- 
 ever part reported, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, or North and 
 Architec- g ou t,h America, the nest shows the same peculiarities of structure, 
 ^ ra . and the architect appears to live in the same way. Even the habit 
 of mimicking the surrounding surface by attaching sundry small 
 plants is cosmopolitan. Moggridge in his charming book has already made 
 us familiar with this form of mimicry in the European species; it seems 
 also to characterize our southwestern trapdoors, and appeal's in Cambridge's 
 Idiops Colletti, a Burmese (India) spider. 1 In the interesting description of 
 General Collett, which Mr. Cambridge publishes, it is stated that the upper 
 surface of the door is often covered with a dry black lichen growth. 
 There are generally a few withered grass blades worked into the edge of 
 the door, or into the edge of the mouth of the burrow, so as to form a 
 kind of semicircular fringe, which often catches a practiced eye and 
 leads to the detection of the hole. The grass blades are probably inserted 
 to aid in assimilating the outside of the door to its surroundings, a pur- 
 pose in which, General Collett opined, they certainly fail so far as the 
 human animal is concerned. In a few cases he noticed also grass blades 
 wrought into the general surface of the door, which in the dry 
 A Rude season, when the grass is everywhere withered, certainly aid in 
 p ^! its concealment. But during the season when the adjacent grass 
 
 is green one would think that yellow withered grass blades on or 
 near the burrow mouth would tend to make it conspicuous. I have con- 
 sidered at some length, Vol. II., pages 354, 355, the point thus raised in- 
 dependently by this intelligent observer, and its relation to so called 
 mimicry of environment. I need only add here that one can hardly be 
 asked to consider protection against human intelligence as a factor in the 
 action of a spider's mind. The hostile elements which influence it are of 
 quite another sort from the curiosity of a naturalist and the plundering of 
 a collector. 
 
 VI. 
 
 Since publishing my observations on the parasitic enemies of spiders 
 (Vol. II., page 391) a number of facts have come to my hands which I 
 have thought well to embrace in these studies, and to add some 
 general conclusions suggested by the subject. Mr. George Curler 
 Bignell 2 has favored me with an account of the manner in which 
 Drassus lapidocolens Walckenaer was attacked by an ichneumon (8th Oc- 
 tober (1890). While walking in the woods he noticed the spider suspended 
 by a silken drop thread from the bough of a large oak. Looking for the 
 
 Parasit- 
 
 1 Proceed. Zool. Soc, Lond., 1889, page 37, pi. ii., Fig. 2. 
 '' 7 Clarence Place, Stonchouse, Devon, England. 
 
PARASITES OP SPIDERS AND THEIR EGGS. 53 
 
 cause of such a situation, he found an ichneumon fly walking cautiously 
 down the thread towards its victim. When close to the spider she touched 
 
 it with her antenna;, whereat Drassus dropped a few inches lower. 
 Method Tliis movement gave better opportunity to see the ovipositing of 
 ° -7. 1 ' the parasitic egg. The fly, having apparently ascertained that 
 
 she had found a suitable subject, turned round and walked back- 
 wards until close to the spider, where she paused a few moments, and 
 then deposited her egg on its abdomen close to the cephalothorax. 
 
 Mr. Bignell boxed both insect host and aranead guest, and took them 
 home. Two days afterwards the egg had hatched, and the larva was about 
 one line in length. A day or two thereafter both larva and spider were 
 found dead. The strangest fact in the above story is that the spider would 
 permit the fly to thus approach it without attack. The insect would seem 
 to have been within its power, yet it forebore to strike. Was it made 
 inactive by fear? By what spell did the mother parasite procure this rare 
 exemption ? 
 
 The same gentleman, while beating for larva? of Lepidoptera, found an 
 Orbweaver, Epeira cucurbitina Clerck, which had been attacked by an ex- 
 ternal parasite. This lay like a sack across its guest's 
 back, reminding one of a miller's man carrying a 
 bag of flour. It was taken May 22d (1882), and on 
 the 24th it was full fed. On the 23d it was figured Eto. 40. Parasitic larva of 
 and described (Fig. 40), and found to have no legs, 
 but in place thereof had sucking discs, two on the second segment and 
 
 four on the third and fourth. Six of these occupied the usual 
 A Para- pi ace f the legs of larva? ; the other four were half covered with 
 t l e the skinfold usually seen on lepidopterous larvae. On its back 
 
 were tubercles, the first on the fourth segment, the others on 
 the seven following ones ; each tubercle was surmounted with two rings of 
 booklets, with three or four in the centre. These served the larva to sus- 
 pend itself from the round snare while feeding on its victim, and to hold 
 on to the web after it was consumed. When all the juices of the spider's 
 body had been extracted the legs and empty skin were allowed to fall down. 
 The larva then commenced to make itself a cocoon which was finished 
 by the third day, during which time the tubercles performed a prominent 
 role, having to do the work of the claspers of an ordinary caterpillar. 
 When a tentacle, attached to the silken cord, had to be removed, the 
 booklets were withdrawn into the tentacle, which at once became disen- 
 gaged and ready to make another attachment. 
 
 The anal segment often played an important part by* being brought 
 round to the assistance of the mouth; this act was first seen while the 
 larva was feeding, and its purpose was to disengage some adhering portion 
 of the spider from its jaws. Afterwards it was frequently used while 
 spinning to unite the silk to some narrow part of the cocoon, where the 
 
54 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPiNNJNGWORK. 
 
 blunt head of the larva was too large to make an attachment. When lull 
 fed the larva was about three-eighths of an inch long, and had fourteen 
 segments, counting the head as one. The cocoon was shuttle shaped, 
 whitish and thin, the spider's original web forming its suspending cords; 
 the movements of the larva and pupa were perceptible through the cocoon. 
 The perfect fly appeared on the 12th of June, and proved to be a female 
 of Polysphincta tuberosa Gravenhorst. 
 
 VII. 
 
 Mr. John L. Curtis, 1 of Oakland, California, has written me an inter- 
 esting account of a new body parasite taken upon a species of Theridioid 
 
 spider, Labulla inconstans. 2 
 
 The spider is quite 
 Body Par- l • ., . 
 
 common in the re- 
 asite. 
 
 gion surrounding 
 
 San Francisco, and domiciles 
 tt - in large leaves, the edges and 
 ends of which it bends downward, and 
 fastens with a sheet of web composed of 
 many white threads spun across from side 
 to side. The cocoon, which is round and 
 white, is woven within this maze, and is 
 jealously watched by the mother, a small 
 spider of a light gray color, with pinkish 
 tints on the legs and a tinge of yellow on 
 the abdomen. 
 
 On July 13th (1890) a specimen was 
 found upon whose abdomen was fixed a 
 large yellow larva. By the 15th the larva had entirely consumed the spider 
 and spun itself into its cocoon. (Figs. 41, 42, 43.) On the 17th it changed 
 to chrysalis, and on the 27th of the month hatched. The cocoon is a cylin- 
 drical case of loose fibres, and hung suspended, head downward, upon lines 
 stretched within the bottle wherein it was bred. Mr. E. T. Crcsson, of Phila- 
 delphia, has identified the parasite insect thus hatched as a probably new 
 species of Polysphincta, a genus of Piniplina:, a subfamily of the great 
 family Ichncumoniche. It is obvious that in order to deposit her egg upon 
 the body of the spider, this mother Ichneuinonid must have successfully 
 threaded the labyrinth of intercrossed lines and obtained a favorable posi- 
 tion underneath the abdomen. A delicate piece of arancad scouting this! 
 
 Fig. 41. Parasite cocoon in site, natural size 
 Fro. 42. The same, enlarged greatly. Fk 
 43. The pupa. 
 
 1 1 regret to record the death of this promising young naturalist since writing this note. 
 Though an incurable invalid he was an enthusiastic lover of araneology, and had already 
 done some good work therein. 
 
 2 Dr. George Marx thus determines the genus, and the specific name is that suggested 
 by Mr. Curtis. 
 
PARASITES OK SPIDBBS AND TIIKTR BOOS. 55 
 
 I here refer to another figured body parasite, which was overlooked 
 when preparing the material on parasitic enemies for Vol. II. Mr. L. 0. 
 
 Howard, of the Entomological Department of the Bureau of Ag- 
 The Die- r i cu pure, Washington, has described and figured 1 Polysphineta 
 
 dictynao and its parasitic larva feeding upon Linyphia communis. 
 
 (Figs. 44 and 45.) The fly was raised from a larva found on a 
 young Dictyna volupis Keyserling. When taken, May 15th (1887), the larva 
 was about half as long as the spider's abdomen and about one-fourth as 
 thick. It was attached by the mouth to the front of the abdomen. May 
 18th the host was dead and the larva full grown, larger than the spider 
 had been, and had begun to spin a cocoon. May 25th it changed to a 
 pupa, and the fly came out June 1st following. The adult parasite is a 
 beautiful little male two and five-tenths millimetres long. The sketch, 
 as copied from " Insect 
 Life," shows the posi- 
 tion which the para- 
 sitic larva assumed on 
 the spider. In the col- 
 lection in which the 
 above species was tak- 
 en Mr. Howard found 
 five other small spiders, 
 four of which support- 
 ed parasitic larva; upon 
 the dorsum of the ab- 
 domen, and one delicate cocoon from which a parasitic larva had been 
 taken. 
 
 In the same journal 2 Mr. Howard reported another species of Poly- 
 sphineta found by Dr. W. H. Fox, of Washington, D. C, upon a young- 
 specimen of Steatoda borealis. The larva was slender, cylindrical, white, 
 one millimetre long, apparently less than half grown, and was attached to 
 its host substantially as above described. It was taken in February, which 
 would indicate a, larval hibernation of the parasite. 
 
 Mr. Howard has described still another species of Polysphineta, P. 
 strigis, whose habits were quite full}' observed. Mr. Nathan Banks found 
 
 the larva of this species feeding externally upon Epeira strix, at 
 Parasite g ea Cliff> Lo ng island, May 11th, 1891. At the time of capture 
 ~, . ° the parasitic larva, was considerably larger than the spider; it 
 
 spun up May 14th. When brought to Mr. Howard (May 18th) 
 the cocoon was completed in the vial in which Mr. Banks bad placed the 
 specimen ; it was spun of dense yellow 7 brown silk, was six millimetres long, 
 cylindrical, two millimetres in diameter and rounded at both ends. It 
 
 Fig. 44. Polysphineta dictyna; much enlarged. Fig. 45. Larval parasite 
 on young spider, Dictyna volupis. (After Howard.) 
 
 1 Insect Life, Vol. L, page 100. 
 
 - Insect Life, Vol. 1., page 42. 
 
56 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 was suspended by a loose band of darker colored coarser silk, seven milli- 
 metres long, and from the end of this band a few threads reached to the 
 bottom, twenty-seven millimetres, and sides of the vial. The abdomen of 
 the spider was reduced to the merest fragment, but the cephalothorax and 
 legs remained. May 25th the adult issued from one end of the cocoon. 
 The cocoon of P. dictynae mentioned above was about the same size and 
 had a smaller supporting band, but was composed of white silk, and was 
 much more delicate, nearly transparent. 1 
 
 The beautiful Argiope argentata may be added to the list of spiders 
 whose cocoons are parasitized. Dr. A. Davidson sent me from Los Angeles, 
 
 California, a fine large cocoon, which upon opening the box I 
 Parasite f oun( j to be occupied by a numerous brood of small black Icli- 
 m Argi- neumon i<3a, which proved to be a species of Eupelmus. 2 It is 
 coon J et °lack, glossy, with a metallic lustre. The female is much 
 
 larger and stouter than the male. These insects were domiciled 
 within the yellow floss which pads the interior of the cocoon, and had 
 probably been reared from naked pupae, as no pupal cases were found. 
 Several dead pupae in at least two stages of development, a number of 
 infertile spider eggs, and a quantity of castings and disjecta membra of the 
 pupae were strung throughout the padding surrounding the central cavity 
 in which the Ichneumons were congregated. Among these interlopers, or 
 crawling upon the surrounding fibres, were a few (six or eight) living spi- 
 derlings, the feeble remainder of the original colony. These as well as the 
 parasites were probably hatched en route from California in the mail bag. 
 Dr. Davidson took the spider cocoon on Catalina Island, California, where 
 the species is abundant. It spins its webs in cacti, and the cocoons are 
 
 always placed some distance from and behind the snare (" around 
 
 Argen- ^ ie corner; as it were "^ upon one of the plants to which the 
 
 a a °" foundation lines are attached. The cocoons are never hung upon 
 
 the orb as with the specimen spun for me in captivity, and de- 
 scribed Vol. II., page 84. The same gentleman remarks that the cocoons 
 so closely resemble in coloring the cactus as to make them almost difficult 
 to find ; and he thinks it an example of concealment by mimicry of colors. 
 However, cocoons of the species received from various parts of California 
 have the same general hues, yellow, with more or less green, 3 quite regard- 
 less of their situation. In the above case the "protective" resemblance did 
 not protect, as appeared from the vigorous brood of invading Ichneumonids. 4 
 
 1 Howard : " The Hymenopterous Parasites of Spiders," Proceed. Entom. Soc, Washing- 
 ton, Vol. II., No. 3. 
 
 2 Eupelmus pieeus. Described by Mr. L. 0. Howard. 
 
 3 See Examples, Vol. II., pi. iv. 
 
 4 Mr. Howard expresses the opinion, through a letter to Mr. E. T.' Cresson, that although 
 many species of Eupelmus are egg parasites, still others are hyperparasitic ; and judging 
 from the size of the above species he thinks that it is probably a parasite upon some Pimpla 
 which was the primary parasite in the spider cocoon. 
 
PARASITES OF SPIDERS AND THEIR EGGS. 57 
 
 From the above examples of life history, which are fairly characteristic, 
 one may get the following summary of habits, which, while open to correc- 
 tion at some points, is substantially accurate : 1. The parasite mother passes 
 from point to point in search of a suitable host with a rapid, jerky, intense 
 action ; 2. discovering her victim she deposits an egg upon the 
 Sum- abdomen, 3. and in so doing she will creep along the lines of 
 w wt spinningwork to the point where the spider is suspended. 4. When 
 near her victim she backs down thereto and deposits but one egg 
 upon each host, which is placed upon the abdomen close to the cephalothorax. 
 5. In about two days the egg hatches into a footless, white larva, which in 
 some cases creeps within the body, probably by some of the natural open- 
 ings, and becomes an internal parasite. 6. The external parasite fastens upon 
 the dorsal base or dorsum of the anterior part of the spider's abdomen, and 
 in two or three days wholly consumes that soft organ, meanwhile growing 
 rapidly, and then begins to spin its cocoon. 7. The cocoon is cylindrical, 
 about six millimetres long and two thick, woven of open and loose white 
 or yellowish silk, and is suspended to the spider's web or other object by 
 a slight band, braced beneath by a similar support. 8. The spinning occu- 
 pies from one to three days, several days are spent in the pupal cbange, 
 and in about a week the imago appears. 9. It is probable that some larval 
 parasites which are hatched late in the autumn hibernate with their hosts. 
 The habits of those parasitic Ichneumonids wliich infest spider eggs 
 cannot be summarized with even as much satisfaction as the body para- 
 sites, but the following may at least suggest something better. 
 Bg-gPara-^ g 0011 after the spider mother has laid and enclosed her eggs, 
 a ' and sometimes probably during oviposition, the Ichneumon mother 
 inserts her eggs, penetrating the cocoon case when necessary with 
 her ovipositor, and leaving a number of eggs or the entire brood within 
 a single cocoon. 2. Each egg harbors one parasite, which in certain species 1 
 enters it as soon as the larval appetite awakes and entirely destroys it. 
 3. In some species it would appear that the larval parasites feed upon the 
 eggs indiscriminately, and then spin stiff, close, white cocoons, through 
 which the imago gnaws a hole and escapes from the spider cocoon in the 
 same way. 4. These parasites are in turn exposed to parasitism from other 
 members of the Ichneumonid family. 2 
 
 VIII. 
 
 Mr. Howard has kindly furnished me a list of known American and 
 European hj'menopterous parasites of spiders. 3 Some of these, together 
 with those heretofore referred to, I have arranged as below, with a view 
 
 1 Acoloi'des saitides Howard. 2 See Vol. II., page 395. 
 
 3 Since this manuscript was prepared Mr. Howard has published his revised list and 
 my table has been corrected thereby. 
 
58 
 
 AMERICAN SrmiiHS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 to a readier comparison from which to get clearer light, if possible, upon 
 some questions on the general relations between hosts and guests. 1 The 
 first column gives the name of the spider, when known, the second column 
 the name of the parasite, the third column the character of the parasitism :— 
 
 Argiope cophinaria. 
 
 Argiope argentata. 
 Epeira cavatioa. 
 Epeira (unknown). 
 
 Epeira cavatica. 
 Epeira strix (?). 
 
 Epeira diademata. 
 
 Epeira cucurbitina. 
 Epeira antriada (?). 
 Epeira cucurbitina. 
 Epeira angulata. 
 
 Epeirid cocoon. 
 
 Theridium spirale (?). 
 Theridium (unknown). 
 Steatoda borealis. 
 Linyphia communis. 
 Labulla inconstans. 
 Theridium 
 Theridium 
 
 Dictyna volupis. 
 
 .Micaria (unknown). 
 
 Orhweavers. 
 
 Pezomachua (?) n. sp. 
 Pimpla rufopectus. 
 Pimpla seriptifrons. 
 Mestocharis wilderi. 
 Chryaoeharis banksii. 
 • Chrysocharis pikei. 
 Eupelmua piceus. 
 Large unknown larva. 
 Pimpla rufopectus. 
 Ilolcopelte nitens. 3 
 Barns americanus. 
 Pezomachus dimidiatus (?). 
 Pezomachus gracile (?). 
 Polyaphincta kcekelei. 
 Polyaphincta strigis. 
 Hemiteles similis.* 
 i [emitelea triatator.* 
 Pimpla oculatoria.* 
 Polyaphincta hoops* 
 Polyaphincta carbonator.* 
 Polyaphincta rutipes.* 
 Polysphinctii carbonator. 
 « " * 
 
 Polyaphincta tuherosa.* 
 Pimpla aquilonia (V). 
 Mestocharis wilderi. 
 Tetraslichus hanksii.' 
 
 Lineweavers. 
 
 Polyaphincta n. sp. 
 Pezomachus fesciutus.* 
 1'olysphincta n. sp. 
 
 Polyaphincta theridii. 
 Polyaphincta boopa.* 
 
 Tujjeweavers. 
 
 1'olysphincta dictynte. 
 Pezomachus micaria'. 
 
 Egg parasite. 
 
 Body parasite. 
 Egg parasite. 
 
 Body parasite. 
 
 Egg parasite. 
 Body parasite. 
 
 Egg parasite. 
 
 Body parasite. 
 
 Body parasite. 
 Egg parasite. 
 
 1 Those species marked with stars (*) are European species. 
 
 2 Within the body. 
 
 3 Probably hyperparasitic, primarily infesting some Ichneumonid in the spider's cocoon. 
 Howard. 
 
 1 Hyperparasitic. Howard. 
 
TARASITES OF SPIDERS AND THEIR EGGS. 
 
 59 
 
 Micaria (unknown). 
 
 Prosthesima furcata. 
 Drassid (unknown). 
 Drassus lapidicolens. 
 Agrceca hrunnea. 
 
 Drassid (unknown). 
 
 Pezomachus obseurus. 
 Hemitelea micarivora.. 
 
 Hemitelcs prosthesima:. 
 Bemiteles drassi. 
 Polysphincta tuberosa.* 
 Hemitelcs tenerrimus.* 
 Hemiteles aranearum.* 
 Hemitelea fonnosus.* 
 Pezomachus fasciatus.* 
 Pezomachus corruptor.* 
 Pezomachus proximus. 
 Pezomachus zonatus.* 
 Eupelmns drassi. 
 
 Egg parasite. 
 
 Body parasite 
 Egg parasite. 
 
 Body parasite. 
 
 Egg parasite. 
 
 Laterigrade, Saltigrade, Citigrade. 
 
 Laterigrade cocoon. Pezomachus gracile. Egg parasite. 
 
 Icius (unknown). Polysphincta n. sp. Body parasite;. 
 
 Sai'tis pulex. Acoloi'dcs aaitides. Egg parasite. 
 
 Phidippus morsitans.. " ' " " 
 
 Pardosa luteola. Polysphincta . Body parasite. 
 
 IX. 
 
 It is difficult to make any correct generalizations from the data in hand 
 
 on this most interesting chapter in the biology of spiders, since the species 
 
 or even genus of the host is in so many cases unknown, even 
 Generali- 
 
 ,. when the parasite has been determined. But a few hints appeal 
 
 from the study of the above lists and preceding facts which 
 
 may serve to at least open the way for others who in the future may 
 
 have more perfect information. 
 
 First, it is evident that the exclusive occupation of a specific host by a 
 specific guest is not the fixed rule. For example, the eggs of Argiope co- 
 phinaria arc parasitized by one species of Pezomachus, two of Fimpla, and 
 two (though perhaps as hyperparasitcs) of Chrysocharis. Again, Epeira 
 diademata of Europe serves as body host for three species of Polysphincta, 
 and its eggs as host of one each of Hemiteles and Pimpla. Once more, 
 Agrceca orunnea of Europe has one species of Hemiteles for a body para- 
 site (?), and for egg parasites two species of Hemiteles and three of 
 Pezomachus. Thus it would appear that the occupation of any specified 
 host is not limited to any specific guest, but has a wide possible range, 
 both as to species and genera. 
 
 Second, the preference of any specific guest is not always confined to one 
 specific host. Thus, Polysphincta carbonator, a European body parasite, is 
 reported as guest upon tliree species of Epeira; and Polysphincta hoops 
 upon both Thcridion and Epeira. 
 
 Third, the guests are not absolutely separated by their habits into distinct 
 (/roups qf body parasites, on the one hand, and nest parasites on the other. 
 Thus, Polysphincta carbonator is a body parasite upon three Epeiroid 
 species, but is reported as a guest upon unknown spider eggs ; P. rvxfipes 
 
60 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 is parasitic on Epeira diademata and also upon supposed spider cocoons; 
 Pezomachus fasciatus is guest within the egg nests of Agroeca brunnea, and 
 on a species of Theridion; Hemiteles similis parasitizes Epeira diademata 
 and an unknown spider cocoon. Hemiteles rufocinctus, H. fulvipes, and H. 
 formosus are reported as body parasites, while other species of the genus 
 are parasitic upon spider eggs. This generalization appears to me remark- 
 able, and contrary to what one would naturally suppose from the ordinary 
 specialization of such instincts. If correct, it shows much elasticity of 
 habit among these parasitic Hymenoptera, for there would seem to be an 
 immense distance on the maternal side between the instincts which prompt 
 to the several acts ; and on the side of the offspring, between development 
 within a spider's egg and within a spider's body. 
 
 Mr. Howard, who was kind enough to look over this part of my manu- 
 script, expresses the doubt here suggested in a more positive way. He thus 
 writes me : " None of the spider Pimplas are typical, but belong to a 
 restricted group, possibly a subgenus, all of which, I believe, are parasitic 
 in spider egg bags. All of the Polysphincta, in my opinion, are "external 
 parasites of spiders ; and this genus, with the genus Acrodactylus, I believe 
 contains all of the external hymenopterous spider parasites." This opinion 
 from such an authority would justify the omission of the above inference ; 
 but as the facts as reported are not changed in Mr. Howard's published 
 lists, I permit the item to remain as qualified. The observations of early 
 date which here compose the list are probably erroneous; and, indeed, 
 they are confessedly defective. 
 
 Fourth, the general spinning and other characteristics of spider species 
 appear to make no marked difference in liability to parasitic attack. Such 
 sedentary spiders as Epeira, Theridion, and Agroeca are not exempt 
 Relations f rom body parasites by their occupation of snares. Yet, in such 
 or Spin- cases one won( j ers now the ingenuity of the insects' maternal 
 nin&r 
 Habits instinct could overcome, as we know it does, the local difficulties, 
 
 and drop an egg upon the spider's body while swinging upon or 
 lurking within its web. The difficulty is not lessened, but rather enhanced, 
 if we suppose that some of the parasitic larvae are traveling parasites, and 
 seek their hosts after independent hatching. The condition of the wingless 
 female parasite would appear to make her task more formidable, but does 
 not limit her ovipositing to periods when the spiders are off their snares 
 and reposing on adjacent objects, or within their dens and tents. 
 
 Fifth, the special cocooning habits of spiders appear to have no relation 
 to their exposure to parasitic attack. Here, also, one meets apparently con- 
 tradictory facts. For example, the egg cocoon of Argiope 
 Of Co- cophinaria is one of the most skillfully constructed to protect 
 
 Habit^ the enclosed y° un S- ( See VoL IL > P a § es 76 - 80 -) The e SS s are 
 encased in a silken sheet, overlapped by a thick, compact oval 
 
 blanketing, which in turn is encased in a tough glazed sac. The whole is 
 
PARASITES OF SPIDERS AND THEIR EGGS. 61 
 
 then encompassed with a maze of closely intercrossed lines, which to the 
 human judgment seems impenetrable by the mother hymenopter. Yet this 
 cocoon is among those most frequently parasitized. 
 
 Of course, one is always at liberty to offer as explanation the suggestion 
 that this very exposure to attack has, in the struggle for survival, produced 
 the evolution of the more perfectly armored cocoons. In short, 
 Effect of there has been a conflict between the mother aranead and the 
 „ J? mother hymenopter, something like that between defensive plate 
 vival. armor on battle ships and offensive projectiles. The difficulty 
 with such an explanation is to establish a point of contact be- 
 tween mother, offspring, and the facts of life from which to postulate con- 
 ceivable interaction and reaction. The theory craves an available pou sto. 
 The danger, if apprehended at all, would only be discerned by the eggs, 
 which are the objects attacked ; moreover, the impression must be conveyed 
 through those eggs within the parasitized cocoon which were fortunate 
 enough to escape destruction. To suppose that the reactionary influence of 
 environment could thus operate through a sensitive egg to a conscious 
 spiderling, and so to the maternal instinct of the adult female, and thus 
 on by heredity, through infinitesimal increments of the protective wards 
 and armor of a silk enswathed or mud daub cocoon, lays a rather heavy 
 burden upon the scientific imagination, even in this heyday age of evolu- 
 tionism. The possibility of cocoon evolution by transmittal through the 
 adult mother need not be considered ; for in the case of the above named 
 species, and most others upon the list, the mother is necessarily eliminated 
 from the problem. In point of fact, she usually dies immediately, or soon 
 after ovipositing and cocooning, and knows nothing of her offspring or 
 their dangers save by anticipative instinct, that foreordination in Nature 
 which is everywhere so manifest in life habits. 
 
 Perhaps one might be permitted to approach the problem from another 
 direction, and suggest that instead of the instinct of the parasitic hymen- 
 opter reacting upon the spider mother to cause increased cocoon safeguards, 
 that instinct simply perceives the well armored cocoon and selects it as 
 the one most secure for her own progeny. 
 
 The cocoon of Agroeca brunnea (see Vol. II., page 124) is also well 
 devised to preserve the enclosed eggs, and withal is overcoated by the little 
 mother with a plaster of mud, which adds to the protection of armoring 
 that of mimicry. Yet this spider's eggs give hospitality to no less than 
 six parasitic species, showing it to be especially assailable, or at least espe- 
 cially available for such purposes. In this case, however, we can suggest a 
 reason ; for although the spider's cocoon is so well armored, the mode of 
 suspending it (see Figs. 134, 135, Vol. II.) permits the mother parasite to 
 approach it with comparative ease, by crawling along the foot stalk from 
 the plant on which it hangs. Indeed, speaking generally, one would infer 
 that the cocoons of Tubeweavers and such other species as are placed 
 
62 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 directly upon various surfaces without tented enclosures, or like special pro- 
 tection, would be most exposed to hymenopterous assault. In point of 
 fact, these genera are numerously represented in the lists of parasitized 
 spider eggs; but until more facts are in hand it is impossible to say 
 whether the proportion is greater or less than, for example, with the Orb- 
 weavers and Lineweavcrs, whose methods of protection are in this respect 
 so different. 
 
 Sixth, the personal carriage of the cocoon by Lycosids iixmld seem to be an 
 important factor in preserving the eggs. At least I have not found a single 
 
 reported case of parasitization in cocoons of species having this 
 ocoon habit, which might be owing to poverty of observation rather 
 
 than of existing facts. Some of the reported parasitized cocoons 
 we know to be personally guarded by the mother, as in the case of Salti- 
 grades, who usually stay within their silken cells with their eggg, and, for 
 awhile after hatching, with the young also. Occasional excursions for 
 food, however, might afford the required opportunity to the mother parasite. 
 
CHAPTER III. 
 BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY. 
 
 I. 
 
 Recent observations extend our knowledge of the Hymenoptera that 
 store spiders in the maternal nest. Mr. William J. Fox has published a list 1 
 of five species belonging to the one family of Pompillidoe. These 
 _, . are Poinpillus TEthiops Cresson, P. biguttatus Pabr, P. margin- 
 ' atus Say, Prioenemis pompilius Cresson, and P. germanus Cresson. 
 The first named species was taken in the act of capturing a large Lycosid ; 
 the second while carrying a small silvery spider, apparently a young Argiope 
 argyraspis. It is probable that all of this family prey upon spiders, a fact 
 which vastly enlarges the number of hymenopterous enemies which wage 
 warfare upon the order Aranea:. It is so much the fashion to look upon 
 spiders with disfavor, as a cunning, tierce, and relentless enemy of insects, 
 to whom our sympathy rather goes forth, that we arc apt to forget that 
 poor Arachne is herself the victim of a remorseless fierceness and cunning 
 on the part of insect families which far exceeds her own. 
 
 Mr. Francis R. Welsh has favored me with a vivid description of the 
 manner in which the arachnophagous wasps pursue their prey. The pur- 
 suer in this case was a black wasp whose name was not known, and the 
 spider was Agalena nasvia. Agalena's web was spun about four inches 
 above the ground among plants and was of the usual form, that 
 Wasps: j S) a horizontal sheet pierced by a tube, and having numerous 
 f „ ., stay lines rising several inches above the sheeted floor. For 
 fully fifteen minutes the wasp pursued the spider under and over 
 the leaves and web. On a straight dash the former was quicker in move- 
 ment, but the latter beat her whenever the conditions would not permit 
 her to fly, though she also ran surprisingly fast. At the end of the first 
 round the spider escaped from the web unseen, and hid among some plants 
 and stones about three feet away. The wasp beat about the web for a few 
 minutes, and thence passed to some neighboring webs, and finally traversed 
 the ground near the original web until she flushed her quarry. The observer 
 thought that the spider bolted before the wasp saw it, but the pursuer 
 must have been very close at the time. Agalena got safely back to its 
 web, and the second round began and lasted about ten minutes, when it 
 
 1 Entomological News, Vol. I., page 145. 
 (63) 
 
64 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 again escaped, unseen, ran in between some stones a foot distant, and dis- 
 appeared. The wasp beat about as before for five minutes, and gave up 
 the chase. 
 
 The wasp seemed to have more staying powers than the spider, but the 
 latter made up for this by hiding and resting. The spider would hide until 
 the wasp spied it or came near ; it would also rest under its web, hanging 
 thereto, but never stopped elsewhere longer than a second or two, except 
 on the two occasions when it entirely left the web. The wasp nearly caught 
 the spider a number of times; it certainly must have touched it five or 
 
 six times, but could never get a firm hold. 
 When the spider hid, the wasp started 
 to search over arid under the leaves, and 
 seemed very keen sighted. The spider 
 did some excellent dodging over the edge 
 of its web and over the leaves, but never 
 attempted to double upon its track. The 
 wasp was always in motion ; the spider 
 hid and rested when it could, and seemed 
 to know pretty well where its pursuer was 
 and when it was seen by her. The wasp 
 tried several times to get over the web 
 at the spider, but without success. Sev- 
 eral times the spider escaped by slipping 
 through its web. The wasp evidently depended on sight alone ; the spider 
 on sight and, as the observer believes, largely on the vibration of the air 
 
 Fio. 46. Snare and nest of Epeira beccarii. 
 
 and of the web. 
 
 II. 
 
 A Tube- 
 making 
 Orb- 
 weaver. 
 
 The tendency of orbweaving spiders to develop the hub of their snares 
 into a tubular passageway between the orb and the nesting tent has been 
 referred to as characteristic of Epeira labyrinthea. (See Vol. I., 
 page 141.) The Messrs. Workman 1 have noted and figured 
 another illustration of this, which is even more decided than 
 that displayed by the Labyrinth spider. Epeira beccarii Thorell 
 was found in considerable numbers growing at the side of the 
 Deli Road, about two miles from Singapore. Their snares (Fig. 46) are 
 dish shaped horizontal orbs, with the concavity upward. The hub is ele- 
 vated into a cornucopia like shape, the top of which is slightly curved. 
 About half way up this tube the egg cocoon is placed. Below the snare 
 is a network of retitelarian lines larger than the orb, which is eight inches 
 in diameter. The central tube reaches a length of three inches. It is 
 braced to the surrounding twigs and leaves and thus kept upright. 
 
 1 Malaysian Spiders. By Thomas and M. E. Workman, Belfast, Ireland, 1892. 
 
BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY. 
 
 65 
 
 Fig. 47. Sitting posi- 
 tion at the hub of a 
 snare. 
 
 Mr. Workman says that the wonderful regularity of the circular snare 
 and the beautiful curve -of the ascending tube, together with its perfect 
 adaptation to the means of supplying food and protection to its constructor 
 and her progeny, make.it a most interesting object. He 
 justly compares the web to that of the Labyrinth spider 
 of Hentz, and the resemblance certainly is striking. But 
 the web of Epeira labyrinthea is always placed in a ver- 
 tical position. The retitelarian labyrinth is therefore 
 behind and at the side of the orb, instead of before it. 
 The thickly lined gangway between the tent and the centre 
 of the orb of Labyrinthea I have never seen developed 
 into a complete tube, such as Mr. Workman describes, 
 but it is often much thickened next the hub, and is apt 
 to assume a somewhat tubular form. At the tenting end, 
 however, the spider frequently occupies a bell shaped silken 
 domicile. The reader in this connection is referred to Vol. I., Chapter XIX., 
 in which the tubiform web is referred to as being the rudimentary one 
 which appears more or less distinctly, and with greater or less development, 
 in the spinningwork of all the principal groups of spiders. Let the 
 reader compare Mr. Workman's drawing of Epeira beccarii with my figures 
 of Agalena neevia (Vol. I., page 345, Eig. 336), or with examples of the 
 spider's funnel shaped snare upon the hedges, lawns, 
 and fields of America. He will then observe that 
 by reversing Workman's figure he has before him 
 substantially the outlines of Agalena's funnel shaped 
 snare. We thus have represented in the spinningwork 
 of this one species the typical webs of the three great 
 sectional groups : Orbweavers, Lineweavers, and Tube- 
 weavers. 
 
 III. 
 Orbweavers are sometimes seen as represented at 
 Figs. 47 and 48, in an attitude which might prop- 
 
 • erl y De called sitting within their hub. 
 Sitting- in rnu , . .f , . 
 
 the Hub. upper part of the central meshes is 
 
 usually removed, and the abdomen is thrust 
 through the opening, and is supported by the remain- 
 ing mesh work against which the venter rests. The hind legs are extended 
 upward, and hang upon the margin of the opening, while the fore feet 
 are more closely approximated and clasp the margin at its lower part. 
 The radial lines are centred upon these fore feet, thus giving the spider 
 full command of her nest. The moment an insect strikes the orb the 
 spider draws up her abdomen, and with inconceivable rapidity spreads out 
 her legs, straightens out her body, and faces towards the direction from 
 whiah the agitation of the web had been signaled. 
 
 Fig. 48. Epeira sitting upon 
 a broken hub. 
 
66 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 This sitting position is not unusual, but is not common ; I have noticed 
 several species which appear at times to indulge in it. The attitudes of 
 the body, while substantially like those figured, vary somewhat accord- 
 ing to circumstances. Epeira vertebrata, E. arabesca, and E. benjamina 
 are some of the Orbweavers observed in this posture. No doubt the 
 position gives a grateful relief from the ordinary attitude, by changing 
 the direction of tension, if nothing more. 
 
 IV. 
 
 Under examples given in Vol. I., illustrating the physical and mechan- 
 ical powers of spiders, was a case of a small fish captured by a species of 
 
 Dolomede or Lycosid spider. The case has excited much in- 
 A Fish terest, and it is gratifying to have it supported by a like well 
 ?^ ne authenticated instance. Mr. Francis R. Welsh, of Philadelphia, 
 
 writes me that a spider once killed two sun fish, each about two 
 inches long, that he had in a basin in his room. After having attacked 
 the first fish it ran over the water and fastened upon the second, which 
 was also at the time apparently well and vigorous. Mr. Welsh drove the 
 spider off, but the fishes died in a few hours. The basin was kept in a 
 second story room of a country house at Chestnut Hill, and climbing vines 
 covered the outer walls, nearly approaching a window close by the basin. 
 It was inferred that the aranead entered the window from the vines. Mr. 
 Welsh could not identify the spider, and could describe it only in a general 
 way ; but judging from the figures in my books he supposed it might 
 have been either a Dolomedes or Agalena nsevia. It would be entirely 
 possible for the former animal to accomplish the deed, for in the cocoon- 
 ing season Dolomedes lurks in the bushes near her egg nest (Vol. II., 
 page 145), spun among the leaves. One would hesitate, however, to think 
 of Agalena as a creature of amphibious habits. 
 
 The same gentleman, referring to the engineering habits of spiders, as 
 described Vol. I., page 211, and especially of the use of counterpoise, tells 
 
 me that he saw a spider one day cut a dead leaf out of its web, 
 Counter- which was dropped and hung by several threads. It then cut it 
 ?£ 16 f m down again twice, the leaf each time dropping and hanging lower. 
 
 Mr. Welsh could not see if the spider attached any special threads 
 to the leaf, but she ultimately used it as a counterpoise to her snare. 
 
 V. 
 
 Many Orbweavers have a curious habit of moving themselves rapidly 
 upon their webs when excited by any cause which attracts their attention 
 or awakens fear. It is particularly noticeable in the genera Argiope and 
 Aerosoma. This action occurs when the spider is stationed at the centre 
 
BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY. 67 
 
 of her hub, and is in the following manner : The body is bowed or 
 
 arched a little more than is usual when in that position, and then is set 
 
 . in motion in such wise as to cause the web to move back and 
 
 the^Body foit1 ' swm S m g upon its foundation lines. The motion is at first 
 
 slow, and is rapidly increased until communicated to the whole 
 web, which is oscillated at times so violently that the form of the spider 
 becomes indistinct. This motion is continued for several minutes, the 
 period varying in length. Mr. Muybridge, distinguished for his observa- 
 tion upon the motions of animals, informed me that he once watched a 
 female Argiope cophinaria in continuous oscillation on her snare for a 
 half hour. 
 
 The oscillation of the orbs by Argiope appears to be accomplished by 
 lifting the abdomen up and down, or rather back and forth, from the web, 
 and the alternate slackening and drawing taut of the line which connects 
 the spinnerets with the central silken shield. At the same time the legs 
 are alternately bent together and stretched out, thus drawing the orb in 
 and repelling it. These movements of the spider of course put the orb in 
 oscillation, and when rapidly repeated it moves back and forward with 
 great rapidity. 
 
 Among Lineweavers this habit takes the form of a rapid whirling of 
 the body within the snare. The species most addicted to this habit is our 
 
 common long legged cellar spider, Pholcus phalangioides. This 
 Whirling crea t ure hangs upon its snare of large loosely netted cross lines 
 ment w ^ * ts ^ ac ^ downwards. Its feet, which are stretched upward 
 
 from the body, by reason of the great length of the legs clasp 
 these lines well together. Then begins a circular motion of the body. 
 This at first is slow, but is rapidly increased until the body whirls around 
 in circles so rapidly that it can scarcely be distinguished from the whole 
 mass of agitated lines, legs, and body, which resembles a revolving cone. 
 The manner in which the motion is produced is probably the same in 
 both tribes here mentioned, but the nature of the Orbweaver's web is such 
 that the motion is limited by the upper and lower foundation lines within 
 which it is set, and is so compounded as to compel the orb to a lateral or 
 pendulum like movement ; that is, a movement perpendicular to the plane 
 of the orb. In the case of Pholcus, however, the web of right lines per- 
 mits the body to revolve in circles which are parallel to the plane of the 
 horizon. 
 
 This habit is doubtless protective, and probably serves to contuse attack- 
 ing Hymenoptera, birds, and other enemies, and thus avert their aim or 
 
 drive them from the position by the unwonted agitation of the 
 the Habit. we ^' ^ ut ^ s or ig m an( * chief purpose are probably connected 
 
 with the taking of prey. The swaying of the web must aid to 
 entangle more completely a victim which strikes it, since it stimulates the 
 captive to increase its struggles and thus more effectively to fasten itself to 
 
68 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 the treacherous viscid or adherent lines. The action must also tend in 
 some measure to locate the position of a victim. Can it possibly at times 
 tend to produce a current of air into which insects are attracted ? At all 
 events, when Pholcus phalangioides is annoyed by being touched with 
 pencil or finger, she is pretty sure to begin moving her body, and in a 
 little while is swinging herself around, her body describing a circle which 
 represents the base of a cone, of which the point whereat her clustered 
 feet hold on to her line will be the apex. 
 
 VI. 
 
 Professor Wilder relates an interesting example of the tendency of young 
 
 Argiope cophinaria to make excursions from the egg enclosure when oppor- 
 tunity presents. Numerous cocoons 
 were found at James Island, South 
 Carolina, which had been torn open 
 
 by birds to get nest building material. From 
 
 the breach fragmentary wads and rolls of silk 
 
 floss protruded, along which the spiderlings 
 
 crawled, and finding themselves in the fresh 
 
 air and sunshine concluded to enjoy the same. 
 
 They would swing down from the projecting 
 
 roll in long festoons, singly, or sometimes 
 
 clinging to one another like bees when they 
 
 swarm, but always retained their connection 
 
 with the cocoon, to which they returned 
 
 when satisfied with their taste of sunlight 
 
 and liberty. 1 One is inclined to note here a 
 
 judicious mingling of conservative caution 
 
 with youthful sportiveness. 
 
 Baby 
 Spiders 
 
 Fig. 49. Baby spiders on 
 a holiday excursion. 
 (Adapted from Wilder.) 
 
 VII. 
 
 In Vol. I. of this work were considered the poison apparatus of spiders 
 and the effects of their poison upon animals and man. Since then numer- 
 ous contributions upon the general subject have been made by 
 p p * er many persons, from widely separated parts. Some of the most 
 valuable of these have been published in " Insect Life," the offi- 
 cial journal of the Entomological Bureau of the United States Department 
 of Agriculture. These leave the facts substantially as generalized by me, 
 and my own view thereof is therefore unchanged, as follows : The poison 
 secreted by spiders is sparingly used, and it is not necessary for securing 
 prey; its object is probably chiefly defensive, and its effect upon creatures 
 of its own rank and size may often be serious and fatal; the effect upon 
 
 1 Harper's Magazine, March, 1807, page 458. 
 
BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY. 69 
 
 human beings has no doubt been greatly exaggerated, and by far the great- 
 est number of species are harmless to the vast majority of men ; neverthe- 
 less, there is no reason to doubt that a few species secrete a poisonous fluid 
 which is unusually virulent in its action upon men, producing painful, 
 serious, and, rarely, even fatal wounds. These exceptions are so few that 
 they give no warrant, or the very slightest, for the almost universal dread 
 (if spiders of all sorts and sizes. Man has no more and probably much 
 less reason to fear injury from these animals than from ordinary irritating 
 insects, and on the other hand is immensely their debtor by their services 
 in holding in check the increase of the insect hordes. 
 
 It will suffice here to note one well authenticated instance of injurious 
 
 results from spider poison, as reported by the distinguished arachnologist, 
 
 Professor Bcrtkau, of Bonn. This naturalist has recently found 
 
 Professor 011 p Tass an( j leaves, near Bingen on the Rhine, a number of 
 
 Btjrt"k 'Hi's , 
 
 Ex ri species of Chiraianthium nutrix, which occurs also in Switzer- 
 
 ence. land, France, and Italy, and has assured himself that the species 
 
 is poisonous. He was bitten on his finger ends three times by 
 these spiders. The pain was severe, burning, and extended almost instan- 
 taneously over the arm and to the breast, and was most intense in the 
 wound itself and in the armpits. On the second morning after the second 
 bite the pain disappeared, but returned upon pressure of the bitten spot, 
 and changed to an itching sensation. When he was bitten again, four days 
 later, both the pain and afterward the itching, especially, returned in the 
 first two bites, and this time continued for almost a fortnight, when all 
 unusual feeling had disappeared, while the later bites, which had festered, 
 were still visible. The results immediately following the bite were a slight 
 swelling and inflammation, which gradually disappeared. It is highly 
 satisfactory to find a case of this kind described by a careful and distin- 
 guished specialist like Professor Bertkau, and indubitably traced to a defi- 
 nite species, instead of attributed to the inevitable and indefinite black 
 spider. 
 
 Per contra, a well known fellow citizen, and intelligent associate of our 
 Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences, Mr. Francis R. Welsh, thus 
 writes me, apropos of the observations contained in my first vol- 
 ume : " When I was a small boy one of my friends and myself 
 used to catch, carry about, and tease spiders with impunity. I 
 was never bitten, but my friend was once by a 'black spider' — you know 
 how vaguely the term is used. I can only say that it was almost cer- 
 tainly not an Orbweaver, but was probably either a Tubeweaver or Wan- 
 derer. The spider, as well as 1 can remember, was about two inches long 
 when fully extended. The bite simply caused a little inflammation, and 
 can be best compared to a severe mosquito bite." 
 
 It is probable that this expresses the ordinary effect of a wound in- 
 flicted by the indigenous species of this geographical province; while that 
 
70 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 of Professor Bertkau exemplifies the worst that may be apprehended in 
 cases of bites by our largest species. Nevertheless, it is not denied that 
 under certain constitutional conditions of the bitten person, the stroke of a 
 spider's fangs may produce far more serious results, or, in extremely rare 
 cases, even death, a consequence, however, which might issue under like 
 conditions from the sting or puncture of acculeate or irritating insects. 
 
 VIII. 
 
 The following facts in the courtship of Lycosa tigrina are recorded 
 by Mrs. Treat. 1 It should have been inserted among mating habits in 
 Vol. II., Chapter II., but was inadvertently omitted. The males 
 Tigrina's f ^,j s S p ec i es are different in appearance from the females, being 
 vj a yellowish color with dashes of dark brown; the body is some- 
 
 what smaller, though the legs are longer. In August the males 
 are abundant. They were often seen bounding over grass and weeds, 
 making long strides, fairly flying before the passer by. At such times 
 it is extremely difficult to capture them. 
 
 One of these vagrant males was observed to approach the burrow of a 
 female, who had stretched above the vestibule of her den a projecting cover, 
 something like a hood or the top of a baby coach. When the female was 
 within tbe burrow, the male stood at the cloor sometimes hours together. 
 Nothing would induce him to venture within, and he was wonderfully ob- 
 livious of tbe observer's presence. An effort was made to push him into 
 the den, but he would back out and find refuge in one's hand rather than 
 be driven into the burrow. At last the female slowly advanced to meet 
 him, and he slowly retreated from the mouth of the den, moving back- 
 ward while she moved forward, just reaching him with the tips of her 
 fore legs, as if caressing him. She followed him in this way a foot or 
 more, then left him and returned quickly to her den, he in the meanwhile 
 following her to the door where he kept bis post until she came forth, 
 when the same performance was repeated. 
 
 At the next visit the male was found on the back of the female with 
 their heads within the burrow, and their long hind legs sticking out. This 
 is the position assumed by the spider when he fertilizes the eggs, as may 
 be seen by consulting Vol. II., Chapter II., Fig. 50. The two remained 
 perfectly still until they were picked up by the observer and dropped into 
 a wide mouthed glass bottle. This action displaced the male, who 
 Her crouched in a helpless sort of way as if paralyzed with fear, not 
 
 „ . trying to make his escape at all. For a few moments the female 
 
 paid no attention to him, but made vigorous efforts to escape. 
 Soon, however, she observed her partner, pounced upon him, seized him 
 on the underside of the head, literally by the throat. He made but feeble 
 
 1 American Naturalist, August, 1879. 
 
BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY. 71 
 
 efforts to resist, in fact acted as if he rather enjoyed being eaten. The 
 observer shook the bottle, but the female would not let go her hold. In 
 a little while she had doubled up her partner into a ball, and with great 
 relish proceeded to suck the juices of her slaughtered mute. The mouth 
 of the bottle was now uncovered, whereupon the female disappeared into 
 her burrow taking with her the remains of her lover. In a day or two 
 after this another male was at her door, behaving in a manner similar to 
 that above described. His movements were not interfered with, and his 
 fate was unknown. 
 
 IX. 
 
 It has been a question with araneologists to what extent spiders mend 
 their nets. I would say that as a rule very little mending is done, except 
 
 to repair the damage wrought by the agitation of entrapped in- 
 ~ e sects. The habit of Orbweavers is to produce a web in the early 
 
 evening to serve for the ensnaring of prey during the night. If 
 this happens to be well worn out by the abundance of victims entrapped, 
 instead of repairing the snare the ragged remnants will be cut away, and 
 upon the foundation lines a new web will be woven in the early morning 
 for the capture of day flying insects. In brief, the Orbweaver adapts her 
 spinningwork to the conditions of insect life, having in some rude way 
 reached the generalization that there are nocturnal insects and diurnal 
 insects. 
 
 It has been a question in which I have been interested, whether certain 
 spiders did not adapt themselves to the one class, and others again to the 
 
 other ; so that we might speak of night preying araneads as we 
 Noctur- (j f jjight flying insects ; but my observations on this point 
 -. . have not been satisfactory. I have an impression that some 
 Spiders, spiders prefer the night to the day, as, for example, Epeira strix, 
 
 who almost persistently abides within her den during the day 
 and goes out at night to engage in the capture of insects. Indeed, this is 
 the habit of many spiders. All those that live in leafy domiciles or silken 
 tents hold quite persistently to these in the daytime, and forsake them in 
 the evening, and take their station upon the centre of the orb. To this 
 rule, however, such spiders as Epeira labyrinthea and E. globosa are excep- 
 tions. These are rarely found upon their web, but both day and night 
 remain within their dens and capture their prey almost exclusively by 
 means of the vibratory communications sent along the trapline, as I have 
 heretofore fully explained. 1 On the other hand, large numbers of spiders, 
 especially those of the genera Argiope, Acrosoma, Argyrcopeira, and Abbotia, 
 keep their positions upon their orbicular web both day and night, and seem 
 to have no regard, one way or another, for diurnal changes. 
 
 1 Sec Vol. I., page l;',7. 
 
72 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 As a rule, the last named genera will remain upon their webs until 
 they are worn out, and repair them whenever the exigency requires, making 
 
 the changes ordinarily either in the morning or in the evening, 
 lme or aii(1 not attem p tm g to men d the broken lines, except as above 
 
 stated, in a casual way, to prevent the collapsing of the snare 
 after the disruptions caused by violent insect struggles. They will hold on 
 to the snare and let it do what duty it may until toward the close of the 
 day, when they proceed to cut away the fragments and build anew. It 
 will thus be seen that the act of mending a web in the case of Orbweavers 
 is not common, but confined to the damages done by struggling victims 
 
 Fio. 50. A Shamrock spider mending a wind wrecked web. 
 
 and to the slight impairments due to incidental casualties', such as the 
 dropping of leaves, twigs, or the effects of the wind. 
 
 An interesting illustration of the behavior of the spiders under the 
 last named condition was seen during a gale of wind at Niantic, Connec- 
 ticut. An adult female Shamrock spider, Epeira trifolium, had 
 
 A wind stretched her large vertical orb from a clump of young oak bushes 
 
 Wrecked 
 
 w , on the one hand to a cluster of tall golden rods on the other, 
 
 the intervening space over which her foundation line was stretched 
 
 being six or seven feet. The lower parts of the snare were stayed to 
 
 herbage on the ground. A strong gale from the sea was blowing, and 
 
 whipped the tops of the golden rod back and forth so violently that the 
 
 main foundation line was snapped and the upper part of the web collapsed, 
 
BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY. 73 
 
 as shown in Fig. 50. It, however, hung partially by the radial supports 
 attached to either end of the foundation line. I was fortunately on the 
 spot when the accident occurred, and saw Trifolium issue in the most ex- 
 cited manner from her leafy den among the oak bushes and rush across 
 her ruptured foundation line. From one of her hind feet she held out a 
 stout thread, which evidently had been instantaneously extruded. In some 
 way, which was accomplished too rapidly for my eyes to take in 
 Mending t j ie details thereof, she flung her body across the gap, and reached 
 
 tion Line. witn her fore :feet tlie °PP osite ena ° f the sundered foundation 
 'line, to which she clung, while with the aforementioned thread and 
 with other spinningwork flung rapidly from her spinnerets she spliced 
 the break and thus restored the foundation line. During all this time she 
 was swaying back and forth upon the thread, like a sailor upon a yard 
 arm reefing sails in a heavy gale. 
 
 The whole process struck me as exceedingly ingenious, and it was 
 accomplished with such rapidity, without the slightest hesitation as to what 
 ought to be done and the method of doing it, that I concluded that this 
 experience was not a new one, but that Trifolium was quite well used to 
 and thoroughly prepared for such emergencies. Her next step was to 
 gather up the radial supports attached to the foundation line, and thus 
 make good her orb for its intended uses. I could not stay to see the 
 details of this action, but have no doubt that the web was entirely repaired 
 and, after the subsidence of the wind, was as good as ever. It may be 
 well, however, to say that the foundation line 1 is regarded as the most 
 important part of a spider's real estate. Given a foundation line there is 
 no trouble, ordinarily, in swinging thereto a snare; but often spiders are 
 sorely put to it to secure this, for which they are usually dependent upon 
 the condition of the wind. It may, therefore, be that the rupture of the 
 foundation line, in the case above described, was regarded as a capital 
 accident, which called for special energy and prompt action. It is proba- 
 ble that an ordinary rupture in any portion of the snare itself would have 
 been regarded with indifference, and that Trifolium would have remained 
 snugly ensconced within her domicile until the gale had overblown, and 
 perhaps would have taken no notice of it at all. 
 
 Of course, in considering this matter of repairing snares, the observer 
 will distinguish between the comparatively ephemeral web of the Orb- 
 weaver and the more permanent snare of the Tubeweaver. Such 
 Patching S pj c i crs as Agalena na;via and Tegenaria medicinalis 2 build almost 
 weavers P crmanent abodes for their occupants. The tubular portion of 
 the snare is their home, and the snare is rarely rebuilt, never 
 indeed, I believe, unless it is completely destroyed. That these spiders do 
 mend their webs I know, having observed the same. As they grow they 
 
 See Vol. I., page 66. 2 See Vol. I., page 239, Fig. 221. 
 
74 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR Sl'INNINGWORK. 
 
 will enlarge the margins of the sheeted parts thereof, and will also enlarge 
 the tubular tent. The supporting lines above are also continually strength- 
 ened. These spiders may be seen in these acts from time to time by one 
 who cares to watch their habits. We thus reach the conclusion that those 
 web making spiders that dwell in permanent homes, to which snares are 
 attached, are in the habit of frequently repairing the same ; while those 
 which make more ephemeral snares, as the Orbweavers, permit them to be 
 quite worn out as a rule, whereupon they proceed to build new webs. 
 There are, however, exceptions to the above, and occasionally Orbweavers- 
 will be found patching their webs. The reasons for this difference, of 
 course, are found in the different characters of the webs themselves, as has 
 heretofore been fully explained in Vol. I. of this work, and need not be 
 here further entered upon. 
 
 Mr. Walter Titus, a youth engaged upon a ranch in the neighborhood 
 of Los Angeles, made a number of intelligent observations upon Trapdoor 
 spider nests, which are furnished me through the kindness of 
 Intelli- Miss Estelle Thompson. 1 This lady is decidedly of the opinion 
 gentLo- t]iat t j ie negtg Q £ the California Trapdoor spider are quite com- 
 monly placed in such positions as to allow of good drainage, 
 that is to say, so that the nests are protected from excessive rains. 
 
 In attempting to lift the lid it was invariably found to be held down, 
 as though by suction from underneath. In one case a spider which was 
 holding down a trapdoor did not let go until the lid was lifted, when 
 she slid into the tube as though going down a well. A full grown spider 
 can force up the door of its house, even when there are three ounces of 
 lead on the top thereof. The manner of entrance to and exit from the 
 burrow is well described by Mr. Titus. When the spider wants 
 Entering tQ , eave nome it lifts the lid by pushing from beneath ; and 
 when, on the contrary, it wants to reenter its nest it lifts the 
 lid with its mandible, fastening its hooked fangs thereinto, then places 
 its two front legs down into the hole, as though to stay up the hinged 
 trap, and thereupon darts within. It is evident that before retreating she 
 reverses her position, for it is stated that she backs down the nest, and 
 the lid closes by its own weight. 
 
 The first door that Cteniza makes after she is old enough to set up 
 housekeeping is composed almost wholly of silk. The next one will not 
 contain so great a proportion of silk, and succeeding ones each a less 
 
 1 1 have given on page 29 an abstract of some observations on the California Trapdoor 
 spider made by Miss Estelle Thompson. Having written for more accurate and fuller 
 details, the following facts came too late to be used in connection with the above, but in time 
 to add to this chapter of Miscellany. 
 
BIOLOGICAL MISCELLANY. 75 
 
 proportion, until she has made her fifth 'lid. In this the inside alone is 
 lined, and all the rest is made of clay and a sort of glue or mucilaginous 
 material, which the spider secretes from its mouth parts, and which will 
 dissolve in water. 
 
 Miss Thompson bad frequently found burrows with doors that were 
 bare and others covered with lichens, according to the condition of the 
 bank on which they were located. She had never in a single 
 Mimicry ms t ance f ouru l a nest on a lichened hillock that did not con- 
 tain lichens upon the lid. She bad cut the upper portion of 
 many from the ground in order to preserve them, and after the door was 
 thoroughly dried the licliens usually fell off. She had not seen the spiders 
 in the act of fastening on the plants, but had no doubt that in some 
 way this was accomplished, or at least permitted. 
 
 Mr. Titus avers that Cteniza attaches moss, sticks, and fine pebbles 
 to her door at times, and her object in so doing he believes to be to 
 hide it from the " Tarantula hawk." This insect attacks Trap- 
 e Ta- door spiders within their nests if it can find them, and it is a 
 Hawk most formidable adversary, for it grows to be about two inches 
 long. Mr. Titus had the impression, which is the popular one, 
 that the Tarantula hawk feeds upon the Trapdoor spider ; but by reference 
 to Vol. II. of this work it will be seen that the object is simply to pro- 
 cure food to place within a cell wherein the wasp bestows the egg of her 
 future offspring. The insect referred to by Mr. Titus is no doubt the 
 so called " Tarantula killer " of the southwestern States, the beautiful Pepsis 
 formosa Say, which I have figured, 1 and whose habits in connection with 
 the destruction of the large hairy Tarantula I have full}' described. 
 
 This observation proves most interesting, and confirms in so far what 
 I have said of the reactionary effect of hostile agents and environment 
 upon the architectural habits of spiders. I have traced 2 the well 
 Enemies k 110Wn habit of the Tiger spider to cover its burrow with a 
 In uence mogsv vestibule to which is attached a rude sort of door, to the 
 ture purpose to protect itself from the attacks of an invading wasp, 
 
 Elis 4-notata. I had no hesitation 3 in using the knowledge thus 
 furnished by the habits of Tigrina as a key to interpret the motive power 
 of Trapdoor spiders in their remarkable industry. 1 had no facts in my 
 possession, and could only reason from analogy, but offered some conjec- 
 tures 4 as to the character of the enemies whose assaults are thus met by 
 this rare counteracting ingenuity. I also ventured to predict, from the 
 various facts alluded to, that the " enemies they most dread may be rea- 
 sonably looked for among diurnal creatures, and not among those of 
 nocturnal habits." The observation of Mr. Titus, which is unfortunately 
 
 1 Vol. II., Plate V., Fig. 2 ; see also full description, pages 384, 385. 
 
 2 See Vol. II., pages 404, sq. 3 Id., 409. ' Id., 414. 
 
76 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 without details, confirms all that I had there suggested, and shows that the 
 enemy which the Trapdoor spider is most concerned to evade helongs to 
 the same remarkable family, if it be not identical with Pepsis formosa. 
 
 Mr. Titus adds that the moss and lichens placed by the Trapdoor spider 
 on the outside of its door will keep green through the wet season, and dies 
 when the dry time of the year comes. He once saw a nest made 
 in a bank of beautiful green moss, the door of which was com- 
 pletely covered by the plant. The nest was discovered by the circumstances 
 that the moss upon the lid was not quite so large as the surrounding moss, 
 and it was only by this that the nest could have been detected. The fact 
 showed that the moss had grown since the preparation of the lid, and this 
 of course could only have been by the active or permissive agency of the 
 spider architect. 
 
 Some observations made by Miss Thompson upon the maternal habits 
 
 of a family of Trapdoor spiders are interesting. The young spiders have 
 
 a pinkish white color when first hatched. The hatching occupied 
 
 „ a . 7 a period of about three weeks. A little later the color of the 
 Spiders. r 
 
 spiderlings is described as a silvery amber touched with pink. 
 
 They remained in the nest with the mother, and at times perched upon 
 her body and legs, where they looked like shining pink pearls against the 
 glossy black. This is the custom of the young of all Citigrades, and, so 
 far as is known, of Tunnelweavers. 
 
 Of the cocooning habit of this species Mr. Titus says that the female 
 lays her eggs upon the inside of her nest, about three inches above the 
 bottom thereof. The eggs are fastened to the sides of the bur- 
 row with glossy threads. It is thus seen that the cocooning 
 habit of Cteniza Californica is precisely like that of the Trapdoor spiders 
 of Venezuela, as described by Mr. Eugene Simon. 1 
 
 1 A copy of his figure showing the position of the cocoon within the nest will he found 
 in Vol. II. of this work, page 140, Fig. 172, the burrow of Psalistops melanophygia. 
 
CHAPTER IV. 
 
 WEATHER PROGNOSTICATIONS-SUNDRY SUPERSTITIONS- 
 COMMERCIAL VALUE OF SPIDER SILK. 
 
 There is perhaps no opinion concerning spiders that is more widely 
 disseminated and popularly believed than that they have the power to prog- 
 nosticate weather changes. As long ago as the days of Pliny the 
 
 Weather no ti on was entertained. That author affirmed that prognostica- 
 ■Protrnos - 
 
 tication tions may ^ e Dase( ^ U P 011 tlie spider's behavior. For example, 
 when a river is about to swell the spider will suspend its web 
 higher than usual. In calm weather these creatures do not spin their 
 ordinary webs, but when it is cloudy they do so, and therefore a great 
 number of cobwebs is a sure sign of rainy weather. 1 
 
 An interesting and romantic incident, based upon this supposed faculty, 
 is associated with the wars succeeding the French Revolution. Quatremer 
 Disjonval, a Frenchman by birth, was an adjutant general in Holland who 
 took an active part on the side of the Dutch patriots when they revolted 
 against the Stadtholder. It happened to him to be captured and con- 
 demned to twenty-five years imprisonment at Utrecht. Here for eight 
 years he relieved the tedious confinement by many curious observations 
 upon his cell companions, the spiders. Among other matters he discovered 
 that they were in the highest degree sensitive to approaching changes in 
 the atmosphere, and that their retirement and reappearance, their weaving 
 and general habits were intimately connected with weather changes. He 
 became wonderfully accurate in reading these living barometers, so much 
 so that he could prognosticate the approach of clear weather from ten to 
 fourteen days before it' set in. 
 
 This ability served him a high advantage when the .troops of the French 
 republic overran Holland in the winter of 1794. They kept pushing for- 
 ward over the ice with the assurance of ultimate victory, when a 
 Quatre- SU( i t i en thaw in early December threatened the destruction of the 
 ionval whole army unless it were instantly withdrawn. The French 
 generals were seriously thinking of accepting a sum offered by 
 the Dutch to withdraw their troops, when Disjonval sent them a message 
 advising against such action. He had hoped that the success of the repub- 
 lican army might lead to his release, and therefore sent a letter to the 
 
 1 Pliny, Natural History of Animals, Chapter XI., section xxiv. 
 
 (77) 
 
AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 French general wherein lie pledged himself, from the peculiar actions of 
 the spiders, of whose movements he was able to judge with perfect accu- 
 racy, that within fourteen days there would be a severe frost, which would 
 make the French masters of all the rivers, and afford them sufficient time 
 to complete and make sure the conquest winch they had commenced 
 before it would be followed by a thaw. The commander of the French 
 forces, it is stated, believed these prognostications, and pushed on his 
 armies. The cold weather, as Disjonval had predicted, made its appear- 
 ance in twelve days, and with such intensity that the ice upon the rivers 
 and canals was capable of bearing the heaviest artillery. On the 28th of 
 January, 1795, the French army entered Utrecht in triumph, and Disjonval, 
 as a reward of his ingenuity, was released from prison. 1 
 
 One might think that, under the circumstances, the French captive 
 would have been safe in predicting a change from a sudden thaw to 
 severe cold in the Netherlands at that season of the year. No 
 A "- B *" great amount of prophetic skill would be required to make a 
 p ana ion guccegg m j ike circumstances at least nine times out of ten. 
 Nevertheless, a prediction based upon such commonplace affairs as the 
 ordinary course of the weather would doubtless have produced no impres- 
 sion upon the mind of the commanding general; but when fortified by 
 the strange and mysterious association with the behavior of spiders the 
 prediction must have appealed powerfully to the imagination, and, sup- 
 posing the truth of the story at all, have turned the balance in favor of 
 the plan recommended by Disjonval. Nevertheless, the spiders obtained 
 and have retained credit for the matter. 
 
 The popular notion that spiders are reliable barometers of weather 
 changes is thus well expressed by the late Mr. Wood : Spiders are all very 
 chary of using their silk, and never trouble themselves to make 
 The Pop- we \j S w ] ien a storm is impending. They are, therefore, excellent 
 ularNo- t, arometerSj an( j if they all take to mending their nets or spin- 
 ning new webs, fine weather is always at hand.' 2 It has hap- 
 pened to me numbers of times to hear predictions of the weather based 
 upon the condition of spider webs, made by American farmers in various 
 parts of the country. From what I have heard I imagine that the notion 
 is widespread, particularly throughout the Middle and part of the New 
 England States. 
 
 I have tried to find whether there exists in Nature any sufficient basis 
 for this opinion, and to that end have made numerous notes of my ob- 
 servations. It is undoubtedly true that spiders are sensitive to weather 
 changes, that is to say, extremely cold weather or long protracted rains 
 will keep them in or drive them to their nests or other retreats under 
 
 1 Quarterly Review for January, 1844, quoted by Cowan. 
 
 2 Rev. J. G. Wood, " Homes Without Hands," page 320. 
 
WEATHER PROGNOSTICATIONS. 79 
 
 leaves, branches, rocks, or whatever shelter may present. Here they will 
 remain until the storm is over. I always know, after such a sudden change 
 in the summer or autumn, that it will be useless to go into the fields for 
 the purpose of studying spider webs until after an interval of a day or 
 more, and until the weather has moderated. But I am constrained to say 
 that this prognostication is after the facts instead of before them. Let us 
 proceed to apply the test of scientific observation to the belief. Perhaps 1 
 may better enable the reader to decide upon the matter by quoting from 
 my journal records of notes made during several years, which, as will be 
 seen, concern summer showers and ordinary rains of the season. 
 
 II. 
 
 "Annisquam, Massachusetts, August 14th, 1888. — Severe rains yesterday. 
 The Zillas have spun this morning and the day is bright, but a strong 
 wind is blowing. . . . August 17th. — Orbwebs were freely 
 Notes of s . um this morning, but a shower with thunder came on about 
 and 11.30, and the rest of the day was overcast and showery. 
 
 Webs. " Philadelphia, September 8th, 1888. — A warm, moist morning, 
 
 soft showers falling freely, yet in spite of this a number of my 
 colonized Argiopes have spun webs or parts of webs as though confident 
 that the day would be clear. There were heavy rains all day, which the 
 spiders did not appear to mind, hanging upon their webs during the showers, 
 which seemed to be no inconvenience to them. They would stop spinning 
 their snares while the rain fell, but take up the unfinished work during 
 the intervals. . . . September 9th.— Rains this morning. At eight 
 o'clock the sky was overcast, drizzling rains following a shower. The 
 showers are soft like those of late spring. Many spiders are out upon 
 their webs, and have so continued during the day. 3.20 P. M. — Epeira 
 vertebrata spinning an orb ; the former one evidently destroyed. . . . 
 5.30 P. M. — A large Domicile spider is making a new orb. No rain this 
 evening, but the sky much overcast now and threatening. 
 
 " September 10th. — All the spiders appear this morning in beautiful 
 new webs. There has been no rain since yesterday afternoon. The sky 
 is overcast this morning. The Government weather predictions for the 
 twenty-four hours between 8 P. M. September 9th and 8 P. M. September 
 10th indicate cloudy weather, with rains and cooler temperature. Some of 
 the spiders have moved their positions. The day kept clear though over- 
 cast, and a few drops of rain. 
 
 "September 11th. — This morning I found no activity among the spiders 
 in the way of web making, but most of them were upon orbs which 
 appeared to be new, and probably were made during the early morning. 
 The Argiopes and Vertebratas were out in special force. Rain began about 
 10.30 A. M. and continued an almost steady downpour until eight or nine 
 
80 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 o'clock at night. The Argiopes hung to their webs and took it without 
 flinching. So also did one of the Vertebratas. 
 
 "September 18th.— Cloudy. Spiders with full webs. The day clears up. 
 No rains. . . . September 19th. — Spiders seen with full orbs every- 
 where. Evidently they were at work last night. At nine o'clock morning 
 the weather cloudy. . . . September 20th.— Argiopes at work while 
 raining. One spinning after a heavy shower, the drops of rain hanging 
 like beads upon her legs. She is finishing the spirals, part of which had 
 been made earlier in the morning. All the spiders are out on their webs. 
 The weather showery, close, warm. There was a heavy rain at night and 
 yesterday. 
 
 " July 11th, 1889. — Yesterday evening the Orbweavers on my vines were 
 busy spinning webs, two young Epeira trivittata being especially observed ; 
 the heavens were clouded at the time and rain threatening. The day had 
 been overcast and was slightly showery. A shower fell in the early part 
 of the night, and between three and four o'clock one of the heaviest rains 
 that I ever have known in this climate. The whole morning has been 
 showery up to nine o'clock. 
 
 " September 11th, 1889. — This morning a number of Argiopes were seen 
 spinning their webs ; others had formed large perfect snares upon the vines. 
 Several Epeira trifolium have also made snares ; also Epeira labyrinthea. 
 Last night and yesterday a very heavy gale blew. Some of the Argiopes 
 remained upon their webs during all the storm until the shield, spirals, 
 and almost everything except a few of the main radiating lines were abso- 
 lutely melted away. They do not seem to care for the rain. Other spiders 
 are hid in their nests, or covered under leaves and other places of refuge. 
 This action of the Orbweavers would seem to prognosticate a fair day. 
 9 P. M. — On the contrary, the weather has been rainy during the greater 
 part of the day, rain falling incessantly, wind blowing with more or less 
 violence, a raw, disagreeable autumn day, and the night even worse. Again 
 my spiders have failed to prove themselves true weather seers. 
 
 " September 12th. — The gale of yesterday and the preceding day con- 
 tinued during the night, with rain. This morning is again windy and 
 rainy. A little cessation of the storm at nine o'clock permitted to visit 
 the vines. A number of Argiope cophinaria had made perfect snares. 
 Insularis, Trifolium, Labyrinthea, and Arabesca all were out upon com- 
 pleted snares, or had begun webs and proceeded as far as the spiral scaf- 
 folding. There is not the same activity nor the same number of webs 
 that would have appeared had the day been bright, but undoubtedly many 
 of the spiders have disregarded tiie weather. Two Argiope cophinaria have 
 cocooned during the night or morning in the midst of the storm. . . . 
 Eleven o'clock A. M. — The rain still continues, a heavy fall. ... 2 P. M. — 
 Wind and rain still continue. . . . 6 P. M. — Rain and wind continue. 
 12 midnight. — The storm raging with unabated violence. 
 
WEATHER PROGNOSTICATIONS. 81 
 
 "September 13th, 7 A. M. — Sky overcast. 9 A. M. — Showery. Argi- 
 opes working in the rain and between the showers. Some are banging in 
 the centre of their webs by a few lines with their webs melted around 
 them. They begin to build, and finish beautiful webs. Other spiders are 
 also at work. G P. M. — It has been cloudy and rainy all day. September 
 14th. — The severest storm known for many years has been raging all along 
 the sea coast. The spiders are badly out in their predictions. . . . 
 September 17th, 1889. — A beautiful display of webs on the vines in the 
 manse yard. Argiope cophinaria especially, but other species also have 
 made snares, which I have rarely seen equaled for beauty. 
 1 P. M. — One of the heaviest rains of the season has fallen this morning. 
 Evening, the whole afternoon, and night has been cloudy. Frequent vio- 
 lent rains. . . . September 18th. — The papers are full of particulars of 
 the violent local rain storms of yesterday. . . . September 20th. — A 
 cold and clear day. Spiders are out upon their webs, but the Argiopes are 
 mostly engaged in cocooning. 
 
 . " May 1st, 1890. — Warm bright day, many spiders out with new webs, 
 Epeira strix and the young of Argyroepeira hortorum and Theridium tep- 
 idariorum. A storm came up about 5 P. M., and rain has fallen at short 
 intervals up to 8 P. M." 
 
 It is useless to continue these quotations, as my notes are fairly repre- 
 sented by these given above. Any one who reads them must come to the 
 
 conclusion that either spiders have no ability to prognosticate the 
 sion. ordinary weather changes of a summer season, or else they are 
 
 so indifferent to those changes that they spin their webs regard- 
 less of them. My conclusion is that the persons who trust to the presence 
 or absence of spider webs as an infallible prediction of the state of the 
 weather will frequently be disappointed. 
 
 III. 
 
 That spiders have in some way been associated with good or bad luck 
 is a widespread superstition, which dates indeed from classical times. A 
 very few of these superstitions may not be quite out of place 
 Spider ]lcre j t ig an ol( j E ng ij sn an( j s co t c h no tion that small spiders 
 Supersti- , , ., . H % , i . . , , 
 
 tions. termed money spinners, are held to prognosticate good luck if 
 
 they are not destroyed, or injured, or brushed off from the person 
 on whom they are first observed. To destroy these money spinners is held 
 " an equivalent to throwing stones at one's own head." 1 One might feel 
 justified in encouraging this fancy both on the grounds of mercifulness 
 to animals, and as covering at least the germinal truth that spiders do 
 contribute roundly to man's good fortune by their faithful service. 
 
 It is a Southampton superstition, which appears to survive to this day, 
 
 1 Jamieson's Scottish Dictionary. 
 
82 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNING WORK. 
 
 that in order to propitiate these money spinners they are to be thrown 
 
 over the left shoulder. 1 Old Fuller, who was a native of Northampton, 
 
 thus quaintly moralizes upon this superstition : " When a spider is found 
 
 upon your clothes, we used to say some money is coming towards us. The 
 
 moral is this, those who imitate the industry of that contemptible creature 
 
 may, by God's blessing, weave themselves into wealth, and procure a plentiful 
 
 estate." 
 
 The superstition prevails that if a spider approaches either by crawling 
 
 toward or descending from the ceiling upon a person, it forebodes good to 
 
 such person; and on the contrary, if the spider runs hurriedly 
 
 5?' c l ney away it is an omen of bad luck. If one kill a spider crossing 
 SiDiiirioi's 
 
 ' his path he will have bad luck. A spider should not be killed 
 
 in one's house, but out of doors. If in the house, it is a saying with 
 English common people, " that you are pulling down your own house." 
 If a spider drops down from its web, or from a tree directly in front of a 
 person, such person will see a dear friend before night. A variation of 
 the superstition is, that if the spider be white it foretells a friend, and if 
 black an enemy. In the Netherlands, a spider seen in the morning fore- 
 bodes good luck, in the afternoon bad luck. 2 The same tradition prevails 
 among Germans, for a German, now resident in Hartford, Connecticut, 
 informed me (and I have since hearft the same from others) that in the 
 
 country parts of Germany the people are careful not to see a 
 Luck in B pj^ er i n the morning, under the belief that it will bring bad 
 Seeing \ uc ^ jf ^ ne y h ave re ason to suspect the presence of a spider 
 
 they will most scrupulously look the other way. But in the 
 evening the same parties want to see a spider, because they believe that 
 then seen it will bring them good luck. He gave me the following German 
 rhyme expressive of the above superstition, to which I add a rude metrical 
 translation : — 
 
 "Spinne am Morgen Spider in morning 
 
 Kummcr und Sorgen ; Brings trouble and care ; 
 
 Spinne am Abend But spider at evening 
 Erquickend und labend." Refreshing and eheer. 
 
 This notion has found its way into Ireland, for my cook, who came 
 from County Kildare, the east of Ireland, has told me that the tradition 
 prevailed in her section that if a wee spider would come upon 
 ,. ra 1_ the head it was a sign that the person would get a new bonnet. 
 If it fell upon the dress or coat a new dress or coat would result. 
 She further said that in a little reading book, in use in one of the gov- 
 ernment schools, there was a rhyme like the following : — 
 
 " If you want to live and thrive, 
 Let the spider run alive." 
 
 1 Notes and Queries, Vol. II., 105. 2 Thorpe's North. Antiq., III., page 32(1. 
 
SUPERSTITIONS REGARDING SPIDERS. 83 
 
 Another notion connected with spiders is that certain kinds of wood 
 prevent their settling and spinning cobwehs. There is a common saying 
 at Winchester, England, that no spider will hang its web on a roof of 
 Irish oak, and the cicerone who shows the Cathedral Church at St. Davids 
 points out to the visitor that the choir is roofed with Irish oak, which does 
 not harbor spiders, though cobwebs are plentifully seen in other parts of 
 the cathedral. 1 
 
 The same faculty of repelling spiders is attributed also to chestnut and 
 cedar woods, 2 and the old roof at Turner's Court, Gloucestershire, four miles 
 from Bath, which is of chestnut, is said to be perfectly free from cobwebs. 3 
 Hence, it is said, the cloisters of New College and of Christ Church arc 
 roofed with chestnut. 4 
 
 I have at least once met this superstition in Italy, and am free to say 
 that there is no basis for it in fact. I do not remember ever to have visited 
 a public building, particularly a church or chapel, in which I have not 
 been able to trace somewhere the webs of spiders. No doubt, however, some 
 public edifices are inhospitable sites for araneads, simply for the reason 
 that they give little encouragement to the presence of those insects which 
 form a necessary part of spider subsistence. Naturally enough, spiders will 
 not resort to and cannot abide in places where they do not procure sufficient 
 food. The spiders which are most frequently found inside our homes and 
 public edifices are certain Lineweavers, mostly of the genus Theridium, and 
 one or two species of Tubevveavers. To these spiders we are indebted for 
 the common cobwebs of our ceilings and corners. The above are only a 
 few of the curious beliefs that have grown up around the spider among 
 all races of men. A number may be found in Cowan's work heretofore 
 quoted. 5 
 
 IV. 
 
 The possible commercial value of spider silk as an available textile in 
 industrial art has often been considered. It is not surprising that one 
 
 who sees the immense snares and bulky cocoons of tropical 
 ^P^? 1 " araneads or of some American species of Nephila, Argiope, and 
 dustrial ^P e "' a ^at inhabit Florida and Southern California, should 
 AH;. think that such quantities of strong and beautiful spinningwork 
 
 might be put to practical use. As early a traveler as De Azara 8 
 tells of a Paraguay spider whose spherical cocoon, an inch in length, was 
 utilized for spinning by the inhabitants of that land, not only on account 
 of its bulk, but its bright and fast orange color. It is probably a con- 
 gener of Nephila clavipes, the " silk spider," of whose silk, according 
 
 1 Notes and Queries, second edition, IV., 298, and Id., ;!77. 
 
 2 Ibid., page 523. 3 Ibid., page 421. 
 
 4 Ibid., page 298. 5 Curious History of Insects. 
 
 6 Voyages dans 1,'Amer. Merid. Don Felix de Azara, 1809, I., 212. 
 
84 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 to Mr. Jones, 1 the ladies of that island make use for sewing purposes. 
 Mr. Jones succeeded in reeling from the spider a few yards of yellow 
 silk. 
 
 From time to time, and from various quarters, one gets accounts more 
 or less definite and trustworthy that various rude trihes, and more civil- 
 ized nations, indeed, have availed themselves of spider web fabric for dress. 
 Such is probably the story that found place years ago in an American 
 literary magazine 2 of the Emperor Aurengzebe of Hindostan, who reproved 
 his daughter for the indelicacy of her costume, although she wore as 
 many as seven thicknesses of spider cloth ! I remember reading some- 
 where an account, though the details have passed from memory, of a 
 royal garment woven of spidej - silk for her Majesty the Empress Victoria 
 by some of the loving subjects of her world wide empire. 
 
 That the silk of spiders can be reeled from their spinnerets in consid- 
 erable quantities I long ago proved by experiment. That little spools of 
 
 silk sufficient for show purposes can be gathered by winding off 
 Sources ^j ie thick foundation lines from the snares of indigenous Orb- 
 g.,, weavers, I also know ; and further, that many spider cocoons can 
 
 be collected, from which, by ordinary treatment, small quantities 
 of silk thread may be prepared which are available for knitting petty 
 objects. But that aranead spinningwork can be obtained in temperate 
 regions, at least, by any practical process, in sufficient amount to justify 
 business investments, I do not think at all likely for many ages yet to 
 come. Until present industrial conditions shall be so far changed, and the 
 present sources of raw silk so greatly modified as to warrant prolonged 
 and costly experiments, and subsequently large outlays, men will adhere 
 to the silk moth. For mere curios spider silk is available ; for profit- 
 able commerce it is not practicable. However, the efforts to utilize this 
 material in the domestic arts are entitled to some recognition in these 
 pages. 
 
 As early as A. D. 1709 M. Bon, president of the Court of Accounts of 
 Montpelier, communicated to the Royal Academy of that city a discovery 
 
 which he had made of a new kind of silk obtained from the egg 
 M. Bona k a g S £ severa i species of spiders, probably Orbweavers. 3 His 
 Attempts "^hod was as follows : Having collected a large number of 
 
 cocoons he beat out the dust, then washed them carefully in 
 water, and allowed them to boil for three hours in a pot containing water, 
 soap, saltpetre, and a little gum arabic. The cocoons were then washed, 
 dried, and carded with extremely fine combs. The result was a gray thread 
 much finer than that of the silk worm, and capable of receiving all the 
 
 1 A Naturalist in Bermuda, London, 1850, John Matthew Jones, page 120. 
 
 2 Atlantic Monthly, June, 1858, page 92. 
 
 I list, and Mem. de l'Acad. Roy. des Sciences, 1710. Dissertation by M. Bon, Sur l'utilitc 
 de la Soye des Arraignces, Latin and French, 1748. 
 
COMMERCIAL VALUE OK SPIDER SILK. 85 
 
 different dyes. From this product, in the natural color, M. Bon obtained 
 two or three pairs of stockings and gloves of an elegant gray color, which 
 were presented as samples to the Academy. The pamphlet in which these 
 novel results were made known attracted much attention. 
 
 In 1710 the Academy of Sciences of Paris deemed the question suffi- 
 ciently important to investigate thoroughly, and accordingly commissioned 
 the eminent entomologist Reaumur to prepare a report upon the 
 Reau- invention of M. Bon. Reaumur took up and prosecuted the in- 
 iR Ur u quiry with much intelligence and zeal, and came to the conclusion 
 that the culture of spider silk could not be made a profitable 
 industry in Europe, although he intimated that exotic species might repay 
 further attempts. The difficulties which proved most formidable lay both 
 in the maintenance of the animals and the nature of the silk product. 
 He computed that more than half a million spiders (663,522) would be 
 required to produce a pound of silk, and to procure natural insect food for 
 this vast multitude appeared impossible. This obstacle, however, was partly 
 overcome by the discovery that spiders would subsist upon chopped earth- 
 worms, and upon the soft ends or roots of feathers. 
 
 Then the solitary habit and indiscriminate voracity of the araneans 
 presented serious difficulty. They could not be trusted together, or near 
 one another, for unless separated by artificial barriers they waged ceaseless 
 warfare, and great numbers were slain and eaten. This cannibalistic pro- 
 pensity immensely increased the difficulty of breeding and maintaining 
 a spider plant. The supply of silk obtained from cocoons, moreover, 
 is necessarily limited by the fact that they are not true cocoons, as 
 spun by the larva} of both sexes of insects, but egg bags woven by females 
 alone. 
 
 - Further, M. Reaumur decided that spider silk is greatly inferior in 
 strength and substance, the silk worm producing a thread ninety times as 
 strong proportionately. He also adjudged the advantage to be with the 
 insect silk in lustre. In both these points the spider product seemed un- 
 available for weaving cloth. 
 
 A half century after Bon's attempt, A. D. 1762, the Abbe Raymond 
 de Termeyer, a Spaniard, took up the matter, and for more than thirty 
 years (1762-1796) pressed his investigations and experiments with 
 Abbe admirable ingenuity and persistence, not only in Europe, but in 
 Ter ' , South America with the large fauna of that continent. He in- 
 meyer.s vented a method of confining the spider while he reeled off the 
 ments. extruded silk ; but his experiments brought the establishment 
 of a profitable industry in spider silk no nearer solution than 
 M. Bon had done. The whole amount of thread obtained in all his ex- 
 periments did not exceed fifteen pounds. Perhaps had he not been called 
 away from America, his most promising field, by what he terms " an 
 unexpected command and an irresistible power," we might have chronicled 
 
86 
 
 AMERICAN SPfDERS AND THEIR SI'INNINOWORK. 
 
 a more favorable issue. 1 We are inclined to sigh with the disappointed 
 enthusiast : " What a pity, and what a loss ! " Termeyer's line of inquiry 
 differed from Bon's, in that he took his silk principally from the living 
 subject, while Bon wrought from cocoons. 
 
 Termeyer's attempt to reel silk was suggested by observing the manner 
 in which the spider extruded its spinningwork when swathing a fly. His 
 contrivance consisted of three parts : first, a body rest (Fig. 51), consisting 
 of a piece of cork slightly hollowed in the centre, 2 and supported upon 
 a pedestal ; second, a foil consisting of a bit of tinned iron (Fig. 51, b)> 
 about an inch wide, having a curved notch in the bottom correspond- 
 ing with the. cavity in the cork, on either side of which were soldered 
 two iron pins or wires (c, c) which were introduced into the cork. The 
 spider was placed . upon the body rest, as shown at Fig. 53, so that the 
 foil falling between the corselet and the abdomen kept the spider in posi- 
 tion, and withheld the legs 
 from interfering with the 
 threads. 
 
 When about to reel the 
 silk the Abbe gave his cap- 
 tive a fly, which was seized 
 with the feet and jaws, 
 and at the same time the 
 spinnerets were opened by 
 unconscious association of 
 ideas, and threads thrown 
 out as if to swathe the fly. 
 The end of this filament 
 was then attached to a 
 small reel four and a half 
 inches in diameter, with cylindrical arms of glass. (Fig. 52.) This was 
 slowly turned and the silk wound off, as with the silk moth's cocoon. 
 Indeed, Termeyer wound upon the same reel a band of spider's silk and 
 a similar band of silk worm's silk, of which he remarks that the compari- 
 son shows evidently how much more brilliant and beautiful the first is 
 than the second, so bright that it appears more like a polished metal or 
 mirror than like silk. 
 
 In more recent times the whole subject has been gone over by Professor 
 Wilder, now of Cornell University, New York. For several years, in various 
 
 Fig. 51. Fig. 52. Fig. 53. 
 
 Abbe Termeyer's apparatus for reeling silk from living spiders. 
 
 Fig. 51. Body rest and foil. Fig. 52. Reel. Fig. 53. Spider in 
 attitude for yielding to the reel. 
 
 1 Raimondo Maria de Termeyer, Ricerehe e Sperimenti Sulla Seta de Ragni, Milan. 
 (Astor Library, New York.) We are indebted to Dr. Bert G. Wilder for a translation of 
 Termeyer's report of his experiments, which he published in Proc. Essex Institute, Salem, 
 Mass., 1867. 
 
 • I have ventured here to insert this cavity, which is lacking in Termeyer's sketch, as 
 reproduced by Wilder. 
 
COMMERCIAL VALUE OF SPIDKR SILK. 
 
 ST 
 
 scientific and popular publications, 1 he communicated many interesting ob- 
 servations, and advocated with much enthusiasm the possibility of estab- 
 lishing a new silk industry from the spinningwork of some of 
 Wilder s our A mer i can spider species. He was led into his investigations 
 xp r while serving as an army surgeon (August, 1863) in the war 
 against the Southern rebellion, and with especial view to fur- 
 nish suitable employment for the multitude of negro slaves who had been 
 launched upon liberty by the rude force of war, and without the responsi- 
 bility and occupations demanded for prosperous freedmen. While encamped 
 in South Carolina his attention was arrested by the remarkable spinning 
 qualities of a species of Nephila' 2 which inhabits the Carolina sea islands 
 and Florida. He invented an ingenious apparatus for reeling off silk from 
 the spinnerets, and better adapted to the long cylindrical abdomen of 
 Nephila than that of Abbe Termeyer, 
 whose method he was quite ignorant of 
 until three years later, but which he 
 then studied and gave to the general 
 public. 
 
 The first specimen from which Pro- 
 fessor Wilder tried to reel silk remained 
 quiet under the process for an hour 
 and a quarter, and until he had ob- 
 tained one hundred and fifty yards of 
 thread ; but its successors were less com- 
 plaisant. He accordingly contrived an 
 apparatus substantially like Termeyer's, 
 which also served the double purpose 
 of keeping the animal in an immovable 
 position, and preventing her from cut- 
 ting the extruding thread with her feet, 
 large corks, a bent hairpin, two large toilet pins, a bit of card, and a bit 
 of lead. One cork served as a body rest, and the bottom was loaded with 
 the lead, one half its top beveled off at an angle of 45°, and the card 
 (Fig. 54, c) fixed upon the oblique surface so that its upper edge projected 
 an eighth of an inch. Into the horizontal half of the cork was cut a shal- 
 low groove (g), on either side of which were stuck two pins (p, p) about an 
 inch apart. 
 
 The second cork served as a foil ; it was rounded and smoothed at the 
 smaller end, and a hairpin pushed obliquely through the lower corner of 
 
 Fig. 54. Fig. 55. 
 
 Professor Wilder's apparatus for reeling spider 
 
 silk. 
 
 Flo. 54. The body rest. Fig. 55. The foil cork 
 
 in place. 
 
 The contrivance consisted of two 
 
 1 Proceed. Amer. Assoc. Advnct. Science, 1865; Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., Oct. 1865; 
 Mow My New Acquaintances Spin, Atlantic Monthly, August, 1806; Two Hundred Thousand 
 Spiders, Harper's Magazine, March, 1867; The Practical View of Spiders' Silk, The Galaxy 
 (an extinct magazine), July, 1869. 
 
 - See Vol. I., page 146, and figures. 
 
AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR Sl'INNINGWORK. 
 
 the larger end, so as to form an angle of 45° with the lower side. About 
 a quarter or third of an inch from the cork both sides of the pin were 
 bent outward so as to double the space between them. In use, the foil 
 was so placed that the prongs of the hairpin passed underneath the card, 
 on the beveled face of the basal cork, and the upper cork itself rested upon 
 the beads of the common pins therein. Then the spider was laid upside 
 down into the groove, so that the projecting anterior part of the abdomen 
 brought up against the edge of the card, and the legs -were in front of the 
 pins. Next, the foil was pushed gently down, the prongs passing under the 
 card until the narrow part near the cork embraced the spider's pedicle. 
 The legs, being then set free, clasped the foil, which thus effectually with- 
 held them from the spinnerets. 
 
 The natural tendency of the spider being to throw up its spinnerets 
 against the top cork and make an attachment disk, a thread was thus 
 obtained from which to begin reeling. Dr. Wilder 
 states that Nephila could retard the flow of silk 
 by pressing the spinnerets against one another, but 
 says that if the reeling is regular she cannot 
 wholly prevent it. He suggests the use of some 
 anaesthetic for the silk worm, to permit direct 
 reeling of thread from the mouth tube, but appa- 
 rently did not think of rendering Nephila com- 
 plaisant and tractable by similar treatment. He 
 suggests methods for reeling silk from several 
 spiders at a time, but seems not to have tried the 
 experiment. He computes that one spider will 
 yield at successive reelings one grain of thread, 1 
 and that four hundred and fifty would be re- 
 quired to yield one yard of silk, or fifty-four hundred for an ordinary 
 dress pattern of twelve yards ; this is less than half the amount produced 
 by the same number of silk moth larva}, a comparison which corresponds 
 substantially with that of Reaumur, although the two men greatly differ 
 in their estimate of the number of spiders required to obtain a fixed amount 
 of silk. ' 
 
 The most recent and apparently the most successful attempt to procure 
 spider silk from culture I find described in a paper of M. Gautier on the 
 habits of spiders. 2 He there informs us that an Englishman named 
 
 Fig. 5tJ. Nephila in position for 
 reeling silk. (After Wilder.) 
 
 1 This requires seven thousand spiders to the pound of avoirdupois of silk, which seems 
 a much smaller estimate than Reaumur's. But no comparison can be made, since one esti- 
 mates from reeling product, another from cocoons; one from Nephila, another from Epeira ; 
 and indeed one cannot always determine which method is referred to by the various writers. 
 
 2 1 have not the original, and quote from a translation printed in the New York Sun. 
 In the summer of 1802 I tried to find some one in London who knew of this gentleman, 
 but failed therein. The story, however, bears the appearance of authenticity. 
 
COMMERCIAL VALUE OF SPIDER SILK. 89 
 
 Stillbers has made cloth of spider's silk which has been employed for 
 purposes of surgery. He only uses tropical spiders, from which, thanks to 
 a scientific culture, he has obtained a much greater return than 
 An Bng- wag f orescen by Reaumur. The spiders which he uses are large 
 ... . species from America and Africa. They are placed in octagonal 
 cases, where a sufficiency of insects is served to them every day. 
 In the room where the cases are kept a constant temperature of 60° Fahren- 
 heit is maintained, and a liquid composed of chloroform, ether, and fusel 
 oil is allowed slowly, to evaporate. That is to say, spiders spin best when 
 they are under the influence of an anaesthetic, as Professor Wilder had 
 suggested, the reason for which has heretofore been alluded to. 
 
 Mr. Stillbers is said to keep five thousand of these cases in a room forty 
 yards long by twenty wide and five high. The spiders lay eggs of various 
 colors, enclosed as usual with cocoons. These are gathered up and pre- 
 pared by the same mechanical and chemical operations as the cocoons of 
 the Bombyx moth. One cocoon yields one hundred and twenty to one 
 hundred and fifty yards of thread by a process which is kept absolutely 
 secret. The stuff obtained has a texture resembling ordinary silk, but 
 thick, stiff, and a dirty color. It is all the more necessary to bleach it, 
 because the color is by no means uniform. It is bleached by treatment 
 with oxygenized water. Then it is tanned and softened, when it assumes 
 a pretty yellow tint, and becomes brilliant and smooth. 
 
 To make a thread say a mile in length requires between forty and fifty 
 cocoons. This is a great advance on Reaumur's calculations, but still 
 falls far short of a practical industrial success. The stuff obtained must, 
 be sold at a very high price in order to obtain the merest compensation 
 for all this trouble and expense. Thus, the last attempt at economizing 
 the silk product of spiders returns to the method of Bon, to utilize the 
 cocoon, and abandons the reeling process of Termeyer and Wilder. 
 
CHAPTER V. 
 MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 
 
 I. 
 
 Young spiders usually make the first moult within the cradle where 
 the eggs have been laid. The young of Lycosa and Trochosa remain- in 
 . the cocoon until the second moult, after which they emerge and 
 ofY u c c ' amDer upon the mother's back, where the third and fourth 
 moults occur before the little fellows begin independent house- 
 keeping in miniature burrows of their own. Wagner asserts 1 that the 
 mother softens and partly tears the cocoon at its selvage, thus aiding the 
 exit, and that without such help the little ones fail to escape, and die ; a 
 statement which I feel sure must be modified. Young Attoids, having 
 undergone the moult, shift their positions to the opposite end of the 
 cocoon, and then moult a second and even third time before egress ; as is 
 shown by the fact that one finds within the same cocoon three separate 
 heaps of skins cast at different ages. 
 
 The subject of cannibalism within the cocoon has already been consid- 
 ered, 2 with the general conclusion that it is rare among spiderlings, but 
 . sometimes occurs. The Trochosas observed by Wa'gner would 
 balism a ppear to be among the exceptions ; for not only does the mother 
 in captivity devour her broodlings, but the latter feed upon one 
 another, a fact which is closely related to differences developed at the 
 moulting period. At the end of two or three months a considerable differ- 
 ence in size appears among the young of the same brood ; some are more 
 vigorous and agile, others feeble, and those weaklings commonly fall a 
 prey to their stronger fellows. 
 
 The cause of this inequality is traced to the fact that the eggs do not 
 all hatch at one time, and that a whole day or more may intervene 
 between the hatching of one division and another. In general, one remarks 
 in a cocoon, at the second moulting period, one group whose individuals 
 lack two or three days of the time, others on the eve' thereof, and still 
 others in the act of moulting. This circumstance alone will explain why, 
 after two moults, the stronger spiderlings are able to overcome and eat 
 the feebler ones. It would thus seem that only the more vigorous enter 
 upon independent life, while the feebler or those which come more tardily 
 from the egg contribute to the perpetuatkm of the species by yielding 
 
 1 La Mue, page 344. a Vol. II., page 200. 
 
 (90) 
 
MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 91 
 
 themselves to nourish the stronger. To this end also serve the infertile 
 or undeveloped eggs, of which there are usually more or less in most 
 cocoons. 
 
 II. 
 
 We may pursue in detail the habits of a few species during their first 
 moult. A brood of Epeiras that much interested me appeared upon the 
 honeysuckle vines in my manse yard on the morning of May 19th. 
 Young r phey were then assembled beneath a large leaf which formed the 
 roof of a little room of clustered foliage. (See Fig. 57, central 
 group.) The assemblage was in a hemispherical mass an inch and a half 
 in diameter and three-fourths inch to an inch thick. The entire outward 
 opening of the cavity in which the spiderlings were gathered was filled 
 with a rather closely spun tissue of silk lines, which extended downward 
 for several inches, attached intermediately at several points to other leaves 
 and forming a hollow cone of spinningwork. In the evening, May 19th, 
 the assemblage was broken up into several distinct groups that hung like 
 bunches of tiny grapes at various points of the cavity. 
 
 May 20th was a showery day, and at one time there was as severe a 
 downpour of rain as falls in this climate. I feared the effect of such a 
 torrent upon the baby spiders, but found that they stood the shower with 
 no apparent inconvenience. Fortunately, there was but little wind, or the 
 lashing of the vines might have been more disastrous than the rain, which, 
 however, had the effect of causing the spiderlings to break up their sepa- 
 rate groups and reassemble again into one ball. A few of the more adven- 
 turous spirits had separated themselves from the mass and were struggling 
 with minute particles of moisture that beaded the defensive spinningwork, 
 and appeared to be engaged in drinking. Indeed, the whole brood, con- 
 sisting of several hundred individuals, seemed rather to enjoy than dislike 
 the rain. No doubt at this stage water is necessary, or at least helpful, for 
 their nourishment. 
 
 May 21st was a cold day for the season, and the spiderlings hung 
 without any change in the assemblage above described. Towards evening, 
 however, a few were engaged in shedding their skins, having detached 
 themselves from the main mass for this purpose, and suspended themselves 
 by lines that threaded the entire width of their dwelling. 
 
 May 22d, large numbers of the brood were engaged in moulting. By 
 the use of an ordinary pocket lens the little fellows were seen pulling off 
 their tiny coats, which they did in a few minutes without difh- 
 Mode of cn \iy t l ea ving the moults suspended upon the lines. They them- 
 ' selves came out looking bright and fresh, the abdomen a clear 
 yellow, the fore part of the body transparent white. By noon the leafy 
 domicile was filled with the grayish white skins which had been shed, 
 giving the whole affair the appearance of the manse yard when the laundry 
 
92 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINdWORK. 
 
 has yielded its stock of white goods upon washing day. Observation of 
 this brood shows that there is practically no difference between the habits 
 of young Epeiroid spiders in the United States and those of the baby 
 Argiopes so well described by Mr. Pollock. 1 
 
 By five o'clock in the evening the entire cavity was filled with the 
 little creatures who had gradually separated from the mass in order to 
 cast their skins. Great numbers of grayish white moults occupied the lines 
 directly in front of the opening, to which point many of the spiderlings 
 preferred to come for their moulting. (See Fig. 57.) By standing upon a 
 chair and using a lens I could see the entire process in various individuals. 
 The feet were thrust out, upwards, grasping the supporting lines, the abdo- 
 men doubled up until it was almost at right angles with the cephalothorax, 
 and sustained by threads outgoing from the spinnerets. The skin of the 
 cephalothorax as it cracked open and escaped was so transparent that in 
 the light of the setting sun it glistened like silver. The legs were gradually 
 disengaged by slight regular movements, and issued white and transparent. 
 At various points in the nest this process could be seen in divers stages 
 of completion. 
 
 This interesting colony remained in or near the original place of assem- 
 blage for a week, during which time they migrated to nearby parts of the 
 vine, forming thus several separate groups. From these they 
 sion gradually, but rapidly at the last, spun themselves away and 
 
 disappeared by aeronautic flight. I saw only one case of canni- 
 balism in the entire brood ; one individual was seen feeding on the carcass 
 of a comrade, which it may or may not have slain. 
 
 Mrs. Mary Treat 2 has related the moulting manners of a brood of young 
 Turret spiders, Lycosa arenicola. When they were two weeks old these 
 spiderlings strung innumerable lines of web across the mother's 
 Youngr back, upon which they disposed of the castoff skins of their 
 Spiders mom ts. Up to this time they had been massed upon her abdo- 
 men, as well as upon her cephalothorax, but then the little 
 creatures, as if by common consent, entirely forsook the abdomen as a 
 resting place and devoted it to the uses of a dressingroom. Sometimes 
 two or three were divesting themselves at the same time. They fastened 
 themselves by a short thread to one of the lines strung across the mother's 
 back, and this held them firmly while they undressed. The skin cracked 
 all around the cephalothorax and was held only by the front edge ; next 
 the abdomen was freed, and then came the struggle to free the legs. The 
 little one worked and kicked vigorously and seemed to have no easy task, 
 but came out of the old dress in about fifteen minutes, although exhausted 
 and almost lifeless. However, it was soon as bright and active as before. 
 
 1 Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist., 1865, page 460. See also Vol. II., page 228. 
 
 2 Home Studies in Nature. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS 
 
94 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINOWORK". 
 
 It was fully a week before all the brood had moulted, and it was an 
 odd appearance that the mother presented, with the innumerable little 
 ragged castoff dresses hanging all over the lines upon her abdomen. In 
 these broods Mrs. Treat never observed any tendency towards fratricide 
 and intentional cannibalism, although she records that in the absence of 
 other food the mother crushed some of her young and held them .so that 
 the little cannibals could suck the juices. The killing of the young may, 
 however, have been simply accidental. 
 
 A somewhat similar phenomenon may be observed in the moulting of 
 young Dolomede spiders. Within the large nest of woven and thatched 
 
 leaves made by the mother, 1 the young spend the early period 
 Young f their life after issuing from the white cocoon, which is swung 
 Do j?" in the midst of the little leafy wigwam. Herein they string 
 
 innumerable lines from wall to wall and from roof to floor, on 
 which they sport and hang in groups, and in due time suspend themselves 
 for the act of disrobing. One who peeps within the nest after this proc- 
 ess, or after it has been abandoned by the brood, will see great numbers 
 of castoff skins hanging to the network of interior lines. 
 
 The same fact may be observed in the case of the Theridioid young 
 who are in the habit of remaining within the parental snare, or maze 
 
 of crossed lines, for a period after hatching. They usually take 
 Therid- a p 0s j^j on j n mass a t the upper part of the snare, and thereon ; 
 
 when the first moults are made, they hang their rejected skins. 
 In this habit there appears, indeed, to be little difference among broods 
 of young spiders. The place in which they happen to be when Nature 
 compels a moult is the place in which the phenomenon occurs. No doubt, 
 the spiders that remain for the first moults in the nest provided by parental 
 instinct must have a better chance for life, as against the exigencies of 
 weather, than those which, like the Orbweavers, seek their own moulting 
 domicile and shed their skins in any available locality. 
 
 III. 
 
 Blackwall expresses the opinion, after having frequently witnessed the 
 moulting of spiders in their natural haunts as well as in captivity, and 
 
 having examined the cast skins of numerous species belonging to 
 Manner more than sixteen genera, ranging through all the tribes except 
 ° ou " the Territelarise, that the process of moulting is substantially 
 
 uniform among all kinds of spiders. 2 Wagner's observations 
 have led him to the same conclusion, which I am able also to confirm 
 from observation of the act and study of castoff skins, including therein 
 the Territelaria;, whose moulting I have seen in several individuals and 
 found to follow the general rule. 
 
 ^ee Vol. II., page 145, Fig. 177. 2 Researches in Zoology, page 308. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 95 
 
 Orbweavers moult as follows : ] Preparatory to casting its skin the 
 spicier spins several strong lines in the vicinity of its snare, from which 
 it suspends itself by the feet and a thread held in the spinners. After 
 remaining for a short time in this situation the covering of the ceph- 
 alothorax gives way laterally, disuniting immediately above the insertion 
 of the falces and legs, so that the head and thorax are the first parts 
 liberated. 
 
 The line of separation pursues the same direction, passing midway 
 through the pedicle until it extends to the abdomen, which is next disen- 
 gaged. As the thread held by the spinnerets is usually shorter 
 °, weav "than the legs and undergoes little alteration in length, the ab- 
 Moultine f ^ omen * s gradually deflected from its horizontal to a vertical 
 ' position, nearly at right angles with the cephalothorax. By this 
 change, attended with numerous contortions or undulatory movements of 
 the body, the spider frees the abdomen, which falls back in a wrinkled 
 saclike mass united to the dorsum of the cephalothorax by the upper half 
 of the tegument of the pedicle. 
 
 The legs are the last and most difficult to detach, but are drawn out 
 downward and usually entire by successive muscular contractions and 
 strains, with brief intervals of rest. Blackwall thinks that the spines with 
 which the legs are provided facilitate the operation ; for, as they are di- 
 rected down the limbs and are movable at the will of the animal, when 
 it has partially withdrawn the legs from their sheaths by contracting 
 them, it can prevent them from reentering by slightly erecting the spines 
 and thus bringing their extremities in contact with the inner surface of 
 the integument. As the spines also and simultaneously with the legs 
 undergo moulting, it may be doubted if their service in this respect is 
 very great. 
 
 When the spider has completely disengaged itself from the sheath it 
 remains for a short period relaxed and exhausted, suspended solely bj' a 
 thread from the spinnerets. The entire process, as above de- 
 Moult scribed, may be completed in about twenty minutes under normal 
 conditions, but varies in length of time according to circumstan- 
 ces. After a short rest the spider adjusts its position, making itself more 
 secure upon {he suspensory lines by seizing them with the feet; stretches 
 its legs, bends and unbends them, passes them through the mouth, and 
 hangs in repose until its strength is sufficiently restored and its limbs have 
 acquired the requisite firmness, when it ascends its filaments and seeks 
 its nest or retreat, or takes position upon its snare. 2 
 
 1 This detailed description is that of an Kpeiroid, and Is made from my own observa- 
 tions combined with those of Blackwall, Wagner, and others. 
 
 ' Blackwall, Researches in Zoology, pages 306, 307 ; British Spiders, Introduction, page 7 ; 
 Id., Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., XV., 1845, page 230 ; Id., Trans. Linn. Soc., XVI., pages 
 482-484 ; Wagner, La Mue dcs Araignees, page 284. 
 
96 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINC.WORK. 
 
 An example or two of moulting as seen in special individuals will serve 
 to define more clearly the above general description. A nearly mature 
 female of Argiope cophinaria was observed (August 19th) in 
 rgiope ^ je ^ na j S £ a g e Q £ mou lting. When first seen she was suspended 
 head downward to the central shield of her snare, as represented 
 in Fig. 58. The ccphalothorax had already escaped from the shell, and the 
 dorsal part of the moult still clung to the 
 pedicle and stood straight out at right angles 
 to the body. The ,. 
 
 abdomen was just 
 ready to escape, and, 
 indeed, slipped out 
 of the shell as I ap- 
 proached, and the 
 
 skin lay in a rum- V J A 1/ II 
 
 pled mass at the 
 end of the thread 
 by which the creat- 
 ure was suspended. 
 
 Fig. 68. Fig. 59. Fig. 60. 
 
 Fig. 68. Argiope in the last act of moulting. Figs. 59 and 60. Argiope stretching her legs just after moulting. 
 
 The body was bent upwards in a horseshoe shape, and the legs were 
 partly freed from their moult. A few paroxysms occurred by which the 
 legs were forced further and yet further out of the skin; then, first 
 escaped the first pair, then, in a very brief space thereafter, the two second 
 legs ; immediately the third pair followed, and in brief succession the fourth 
 pair. The spider's body dropped downward, and she stretched herself as 
 
MOULTING HAIHTS OF SPIDERS. 
 
 F(G. 61. Argiope moisten- 
 ing her feet after moult- 
 ing. 
 
 though finding the sort of relief that a human being does when he yawns. 
 (Fig. 59.) The limbs were finally extended to their utmost tension, the 
 respective legs of each pair being precisely opposite to and a little sepa- 
 rated from each other. (Fig. 60.) Shortly thereafter, still maintaining this 
 parallelism of the several pairs, the hind legs were 
 elevated, and then successively the others, until they 
 were all a little more widely separated than repre- 
 sented in the figure. After a few minutes repose 
 in this position the legs were doubled up, and the 
 feet placed in a little circle upon the mouth organs, 
 as represented at Fig. 61. The colors of the body 
 were almost the same after as before moulting, only 
 fresher and brighter, with the exception of the palps, 
 which were nearly destitute of color and almost 
 transparent. 
 
 A female of the same species was found (Sep- 
 tember 6th) just after moulting. A rudimentary 
 web had been constructed consisting simply of the 
 characteristic central space, although the silken shield 
 was but slightly marked, and an. irregular line of 
 straggling thick white silk represented the usual 
 zigzag ribbon beneath. This was suspended among 
 
 surrounding grasses and weeds by sev- 
 eral radii so that it remained quite 
 firm, the whole structure being about 
 three inches long and two wide. The 
 cast skin was attached to the upper 
 part of this moulting frame, the feet 
 being turned upward, the claws holding 
 to the upper lines of the notched zone. 
 The corselet skin swung backwards, 
 showing that the spider had come out 
 in that way by pulling downward. She 
 herself was hanging to the lower portion 
 of the moulting frame in the usual man- 
 ner, her feet attached to the shield be- 
 low the moult. The rings upon the legs 
 showed white as they did in the moult. The animal when fully mature 
 does not show these rings, but the tarsus and metatarsus are generally a 
 uniform black color. 
 
 IV. 
 
 A female Linyphia communis moulted as follows : The spider was 
 trussed upon threads stretched across a paper box in which she was con- 
 fined, her body at an angle of about 45°, the abdomen apparently resting 
 
 Fi«. 62. Argiope resting after moulting, sus- 
 pended to her silken shield. 
 
98 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNING WORK. 
 
 upon the bottom of the box. The fore legs were extended forward so that 
 the feet came well together, each leg being fastened upon a thread. The 
 cephalothorax and head were bolstered against several cross 
 Other j mes When the observation began the skin of the corselet was 
 Tribes— looge an( j cagt ^^ above the abdomen. The spider was in 
 ' the act of moulting the face below the eyes and falces. This 
 was done by a succession of regular motions by which the body was 
 pressed backward against the moulting frame, and the skin of the 
 legs, palps, and falces at each swell was pushed a little more forward. 
 The purchase was less as the skin was more and more rejected, and 
 at the metatarsus and tarsus the legs were extricated by pulling them 
 gently. 
 
 After moulting the legs were folded together under the sternum, and 
 were then passed through the mouth in the manner of spiders when 
 cleansing the hairy armature of the legs. The new skin looked 
 Behavior f res h an( j bright ; the black rings upon the legs retained their 
 M e T, . hue ; the flesh colored and brownish parts were whitish ; the 
 abdomen was little changed as to color. Shortly after moulting 
 the spider turned over and assumed an upright position upon her moult- 
 ing frame. When touched she kept quite still, decidedly in contrast with 
 the normal habit of the species. 
 
 The Medicinal spider (Tegenaria medicinalis) suspends itself beneath its 
 web in order to moult. The skin divides at the edges of the cephalo- 
 thorax, leaving the casts of the sternum and the three first pairs 1 
 Medicinal £ j e g S) together with the mouth parts, on one side; the shield, 
 j? 1 ?£ s abdomen, and last pair of legs on the other. In the cast skin 
 the corselet is thrown backward and downward, and is surrounded 
 by the hind pair of legs. It is united to the abdomen, which is repre- 
 sented by an irregular mass of black skin, the softness of that organ 
 preventing it from maintaining the firm outlines of the other parts, which 
 more resemble the shell of true insects. The skins of the first three pairs 
 of legs are thrown forward, nearly or quite touching above the face, as 
 when one throws his arms over his head. 1 This represents the position 
 maintained during the act of casting the skin. 
 
 With Trochosa singoriensis the rejected dorsum of the cephalothorax is 
 held to the abdomen by the skin of the pedicle, which is rent longitudi- 
 nally into two nearly equal parts. The upper part unites the 
 T . , * corselet to the abdomen, and the lower part ties the sternum 
 ' thereto. The cephalothorax parts along the edge above the inser- 
 tion of the legs ; the last pair of legs first escape from the old skin, then 
 the third, and the others in order. In unsheathing the legs the spider 
 finds a point of support in the legs themselves; that is, she supports 
 
 1 This may not be the rule, but is true of the case described. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 
 
 herself upon the third pair in unsheathing the fourth, upon the second to 
 free the third, and so on. 
 
 The abdomen does not commence to moult until after the cephalothorax. 
 It is disengaged from the skin, without the aid of the legs, by means of 
 contractions of the abdominal muscles, which produce undulatory move- 
 ments of the skin in the direction from the cephalothorax toward the 
 spinnerets. The cast skin of the abdomen is always much wrinkled, owing 
 to its extreme softness and fineness, that permits it to fold up under 
 pressure. In this saclike abdominal moult one finds the moulted lungs and 
 glands, and fragments of the moult of the intestine and muscles. (Wagner.) 
 
 The skin of Mygale when cast is sometimes so little broken, as shown 
 by Fig. 63, that by placing the corselet shell upon the sternum and pasting 
 it down to the falces, a casual observer might think it a living 
 Moult creature. It will be seen from the cut that the abdomen has 
 been withdrawn from the old tegument forward through the cir- 
 cular rent at the base, where it was united to the pedicle. Even the long 
 spinnerets retain their hab- 
 itual position curled upward 
 along the apex. The ab- 
 dominal skin of this spi- 
 der is So much thicker than 
 that of ordinary araneads, 
 and withal is so heavily cov- 
 ered with strong hairs, that 
 it more readily retains its 
 usual form, instead of 
 shrinking up in a wrinkled 
 mass, as with most species. 
 Sometimes, however, the cast F,r " ^ A cast skin of Mygale ' showing 8Ught rupture of parts ' 
 is not so complete as here shown. In this figure the line of rupture 
 along the sides of the cephalothorax is well shown; also the usual mode 
 in which the pedicle is parted, uniting the abdomen on the one hand and 
 the corselet on the other to the sternum. The mandibles have evidently 
 been withdrawn backward by a motion the reverse of the abdomen, as 
 shown by the unbroken moult fallen forward upon the moult of the mouth 
 parts which adhere to the sternum. 
 
 Some spiders issue from the eggs with their feet free; others, as 
 Epeiroids and Theridioids, come out having their feet adhering under the 
 abdomen. They remain thus for six days, more or less, when they cast the 
 first tegument and quit the cocoon. 1 The skin thus enclosing the legs is 
 
 1 Simon, Ilistoire Naturellc ties Araign6es. 
 
100 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 in fact the vitelline membrane, and deliverance therefrom constitutes the 
 first moult. 
 
 The number of times that spiders change their skin before they be- 
 come adult is not uniformly the same as regards every species, not even 
 
 perhaps the same within the individuals of any one species. 
 Periodic- p or example, Black wall made some careful observations upon the 
 M ,,. frequency of moulting in a young female of Zilla x-notata 1 and 
 
 Epeira diademata, which I arrange for sake of comparison in 
 the following tabulated form : — 
 
 Zilla x-notata. Epeira diademata. 
 
 Days Interval. Days Interval. 
 
 Disengaged from egg March 30th, April 14th, 
 
 1. Moulted in cocoon April 8th, 9 April 24th, 10 
 
 Quitted cocoon May 1st, May 3d, 
 
 2. Moulted June 4th, 54 2 
 
 3. Moulted June 22d, 18 June 21st, 50* 
 
 4. Moulted July 12th, 20 July 10th, 19 
 
 5. Moulted August 4th, 23 August 3d, 24 
 
 There were five moults in each case ; the intervals between disengage- 
 ment from the egg and the first moult were about the same ; the Epeira 
 remained much longer in the cocoon than the Zilla, perhaps for some local 
 reason; its next moult, the first after emerging, was not recorded. But 
 there was evidently an irregularity during the interval from moult 1 to 
 moult 3 where the record can again be compared. However, if we take 
 up the comparison from the dates of leaving the cocoons, the moulting 
 intervals of the two species are of nearly equal length. Perhaps this table 
 represents fairly enough the normal periodicity of moulting with Orb- 
 weavers. 
 
 With Lycosids (Trochosa), according to Wagner, the second skin is 
 rejected in about six days, at a time when the younglings dwell in part 
 within the cocoon and partly on the mother's back. The third 
 Trochosa m0U ^ m S occurs six to seven days thereafter upon the mother's 
 body. The fourth moult occurs seven to eight days after the 
 third, partly on the mother's body and partly in the maternal burrow. 
 After this moult the younglings leave the burrow and begin independent 
 life. At this time the spiderlings have attained more than one-tenth their 
 normal size, and have before them a series of moults amounting to ten in 
 all. 3 The time required for full development and for completion of all the 
 moults is from one hundred and sixty to one hundred and ninety-five 
 days, excluding winter months. 
 
 The periodicity and the safety of moulting are modified by various 
 
 1 Epeira calophylla Blackw. 
 
 ' There is probably a break here in the observation, and a loss of several moults. 
 3 Wagner, Note on the Tarentula, Comtes rendus de la Sect. Zool.de la Soc. Imp. des 
 Sc. Nat. de Moscow, 1866. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OP SPIDERS. 101 
 
 conditions. Blackwall had already noticed that food and temperature 
 exercise a decided influence, 1 and Wagner has confirmed the fact. Moult- 
 ing is suspended in winter in natural site ; but if spiders be housed in 
 
 warm rooms the moult may be artificially stimulated, but the 
 Modify- moulting intervals are then longer than usual in natural condi- 
 " lg ' tion. If a young brood of the same age be exposed to different 
 
 degrees of heat they will shed their skins at intervals corre- 
 sponding thereto, the warmer ones earlier, the colder later. The lack of 
 sufficient nourishment retards the moulting epoch, and tends to make the 
 act more difficult and dangerous, so that many spiders die in or after the 
 act from inanition. 
 
 Causes affecting the normal health of the organism modify the moult. 
 Blackwall discovered that young spiders infested by the larva of Poly- 
 
 sphincta carbonaria, an insect belonging to the Ichneumonidae 
 Pompilus w j lich feedg upon their fl u id S) never moult. 2 Wagner notes the 
 
 effect of the prick of a Pompilus sting upon two male Trochosas ; 
 one stung July 8th remained sick and languid until August 7th, an unus- 
 ually long period, and then moulted. During the act, probably for lack of 
 vigor, the legs were contorted and deprived of motion. Another male, 
 stung at the same time, passed an interval of a month and ten days before 
 moulting, a great retardation as compared with subjects of his own age 
 who had long before that shed their skins. This spider began moulting 
 August 17th, and on September 2d, when it was moribund, it had only 
 achieved the moult of the abdomen and corselet. The legs were with- 
 drawn from the old skin in the morning and appeared to be normal, but 
 in the evening they were bent up and flattened, doubtless the result of 
 imperfect alimentation during the two months succeeding the sting, and of 
 the imperfection of the interior moult. 
 
 Neither of these wounded spiders made any preparation for moulting 
 by stretching supporting frames of silk lines. The normal conduct and 
 periodicity of moulting appears thus to depend upon three kinds of agents : 
 first, the interior conditions of the animal's development; second, the expen- 
 diture of the reserve for the maintenance of internal heat and locomotion ; 
 and, third, external conditions, such as heat and food. 3 
 
 VI. 
 
 After moulting, all spiders, old as well as young, are in a state of 
 greater or less feebleness, proportionate to the difficulty and length of the 
 act. They hang in a relaxed and helpless condition upon their proper 
 snares, if sedentary, or upon temporary scaffolds woven as supports ; one 
 
 1 Zoological Researches, page 309. 
 
 - Brit. Assn. Advanct. Sci., 14th meeting, pages 70, 71. 
 
 3 Wagner, La Muc, page 357. 
 
 . 
 
102 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 may even touch them at that time without responsive signs of life. Of 
 course they are then at the mercy of their enemies, to whom, in point of 
 fact, they do fall an easy prey in great numbers. 
 
 One would naturally expect from what has elsewhere 1 been written 
 of protective habits, that Nature, intent upon the preservation of the 
 species, would provide some recourse against this peril. Accordingly we 
 find that, upon the approach of the moulting period, many spiders pre- 
 pare for the emergency ; some creep away into crevices of rocks, crannies 
 of walls and fallen wood, hollows of trees and stumps, underneath loose 
 bark, stones, and like sheltered positions. Many species overlap and join 
 together the edges of leaves, and moult within the tent thus formed ; some 
 preempt the cocoons or lodges of other spiders, and some appropriate the 
 nests of sundry insects. 
 
 The Attoi'ds moult within the silken cells which are the characteristic 
 dwellings of the family and make no other provision therefor. Curiously, 
 they have a fancy for cells other than their own, and for old 
 lVeHab- ratner tnan new - Tlie y freely avail themselves of strange cells, 
 its. anc * *^ e ones wni °h appear most to please them are the abandoned 
 
 nests within which the females have laid their eggs, after the 
 young have quitted them. Hence, one will sometimes find the shed skin 
 of one or even two vagabond males inside such sites. 
 
 Tubeweavers seek the funneled part of their snare and moult beneath 
 the outspread curtain, as do also the Linyphiae. Lycosids moult within 
 their burrows, which they previously close, showing thus the same sense 
 of need that leads them to cover their nests in winter and the cocooning 
 season. 
 
 Orbweavers do not have the same degree of secretiveness at this period ; 
 at least many of them are found moulting upon their snares, as shown in 
 the various accompanying figures, with no special provision for conceal- 
 ment or protection. Often they do not even get behind their webs or seek 
 the shelter of adjacent foliage. The Lineweavers also moult upon their 
 webs, but then their position underneath and within their maze of crossed 
 lines, as with Theridioids and with Pholcus, would in itself seem to be a 
 good protection. As a general but not invariable rule it may be said that 
 spiders having a fixed abode, as all the sedentary groups of Lycosids that 
 live in burrows, many Attoi'ds, etc., cast their skins on or in their snare or 
 lodge. But those species which have no fixed dwelling seek divers shelters 
 for moulting. 
 
 All the burrowing spiders observed by Mrs. Treat closed their dwellings 
 just before they moulted, and before making their cocoons. When this 
 work was over they cut the threads and threw the covers back, sometimes 
 entirely severing them. At other times a sort of hinge was left on one 
 
 1 Vol. II., page 407. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 103 
 
 side and the door fell back, keeping an attachment to the wall. 1 This 
 is especially the case with Lycosa tigrina. 
 
 Wagner confirms this observation in the case of the European taren- 
 tula, which closes its burrow with a sort of pent house above the door, 
 and suspending itself to the sides thereof, head downward, passes its moult. 
 In captivity these preparations change in their details, but their aim 
 remains the same, and is always attempted in one way or another. 2 
 
 It seems probable, as suggested by Wagner, that the nature and extent 
 of these precautions depend upon the facility with which the moult is 
 accomplished ; the greater the facility the less the precaution. 
 Facility p or example, young spiders appear to experience little or no 
 in Moult- difficulty in shedding their coats, which they do in a few min- 
 utes — young Orbweavers in from three to ten minutes, young 
 Trochosas in two minutes. As the spiders advance in age the succeeding 
 moults are passed with increasing difficulty, the last moult being often 
 the hardest to achieve. Now, young spiders make no preparations and 
 take no precautions in moulting, and drop their skins wherever they 
 chance to be, a carelessness which disappears with the approach 
 WltJl of adult life. Thus Wagner records that the young of Trochosa 
 S °^ S singoriensis make no protective defenses during the early period 
 of life, when they moult easily ; but as the act is made more 
 difficult and protracted by advancing age, they cover their burrows when 
 they feel the moulting period coming on. 
 
 The Thomisoids quite generally shed their skins easily and rapidly, 
 and, accordingly, they do it openly, only spinning a supporting thread 
 over the petals of a flower or the surface of a leaf. Even in the case of 
 some young spiders one may see evidence of the same sensitiveness to 
 danger, for if the young of Attus terrebratus, who are in the habit of 
 moulting en masse within the maternal cocoon, be removed after the 
 second moult and put in a suitable place, every one will spin a little cell 
 within which the third moult is separately made. This quick perception 
 of the change of condition and ready adaptation thereto is justly noted 
 by Wagner, who relates it as a fine example of instinctive wisdom. 
 
 My tarantula " Leidy," distinguished by having reached the greatest age 
 of any spider known to science, finally died in the act of moulting when 
 more than seven years old. Its death is another example of a fact which 
 I had previously observed, that the act of moulting is frequently attended 
 by dangers of one kind or another to spiders. It is common to find 
 
 1 My Garden Pete, page 82. 
 
 2 One needs to distinguish between the word tarantula, which is the popular name for 
 the huge Mygale of our southwestern States, and the genus Tarantula of the Lycosids. The 
 Turret spider (L. arenicola) and my Tarentula (Lycosa) tigrina are closely related in habits 
 and structure to the famous " tarentula " of Italy, and the well known Tarentula (Lycosa) 
 Narbonensia. 
 
104 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 specimens without one or more limbs, also with distorted and abbreviated 
 limbs. I have frequently found males lacking several legs. The theory 
 commonly adopted is that in most of these cases the loss has 
 ou ing rcsu j tet | f vom con fli c t Sj perhaps among rival lovers in attendance 
 upon the same female. Something of loss may be attributed to 
 this cause, but I am satisfied that in a much larger degree losses and mal- 
 formations are due to the accidents of moulting. 
 
 One example I may cite, the loss of two limbs experienced by a large 
 tarantula which I had kept under observation. This spider lay upon its 
 back in the araneary during part of the time of moulting, and on its side 
 during the remainder thereof. The skin was cast by a succession of 
 movements of the body or parts of the body recurring at reg- 
 Limbs u j ar intervals, reminding one of labor pains among mammals. 
 M ,,. For some reason two of the legs refused to separate from the 
 skin, and after a prolonged struggle they were broken off at the 
 coxte, and remained within the moult. (See Fig. 64.) One foot of another 
 
 leg shared the same 
 fate. This moult oc- 
 curred in the spring ; 
 during the latter part 
 of August of the same 
 year the spider again 
 moulted. The moult 
 was a perfect cast of 
 the animal, the skin, 
 spines, claws, and the 
 most delicate hairs 
 showing, and their cor- 
 responding originals 
 appeared bright and 
 clean upon the spider. 
 When the castoff skin 
 was removed the dissevered members were lacking thereon, but on the 
 spider itself new limbs had appeared, perfect in shape but smaller than 
 the corresponding ones on the opposite side of the body. The dissevered 
 foot was also restored. The rudimentary legs had evidently been folded 
 up within the coxae, and appeared at once after the moult, rapidly filling 
 out in a manner somewhat analogous to the expansion of wings of insects 
 after emerging. 1 
 
 It is possible that the tarantula " Leidy " was too much exhausted by 
 long previous fasting to endure the severe strain upon the organism in 
 the act of moulting, although judging from the disjecta membra of the 
 
 64. Cast skin of Mygale, showing stumps of legs broken 
 during moulting. 
 
 See Proceedings Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, 1883, page L06. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 105 
 
 skin recovered from the burrow it had succeeded in casting them all off 
 
 without any mutilation. The spring of 1887 was a backward one, and I 
 experienced great difficulty in procuring insects for food from 
 
 Effect of fj ie i mme diate neighborhood. The annual supply of grasshop- 
 ou " 8 " pers and locusts upon which I had relied came very late. Per- 
 haps had the spider been strengthened by a few weeks generous 
 
 feeding previous to its last moult it might still have been alive. 
 
 VII. 
 
 With each moult spiders undergo a change in color and patterns more 
 or less decided. Some species have such neutral colors and are so uni- 
 formly marked that the differences are not decided ; but some 
 ° 01 undergo such decided changes that different species have been 
 established for the same spider upon specimens taken after differ- 
 ent moulting periods. In some species the colors and markings of the 
 youngling, after the first moult or two, fairly represent the markings at 
 maturity ; in others the difference is so great between the two stages of life 
 that it is quite impossible to identify young individuals, or distinguish the 
 young of several species with accuracy. 
 
 Among the young of Lycosa and Attus, according to Wagner, these mod- 
 ifications are effected with the female and male so equally and uniformly 
 during the first four or five moults, and with Trochosa during the first six 
 or seven moults, that one is scarcely able to distinguish the sex. With the 
 final moults these distinctions become more and more marked, though not 
 always to the same degree. The differences in relative length of legs and 
 in the shape of the palps also begin to appear; for example, the male 
 Trochosa singoriensis at the seventh moult equals in body size and rela- 
 tive length of the legs those of the female at the sixth moult. The same 
 is true of Attus. 
 
 Among Orbweavers generally, and in spiders of various tribes observed, 
 
 the change in color (and in form also) is most decided in the males ; that 
 
 is, the young male carries the typical colors and general shape 
 
 angein^ ^ &( j u ^ f ema i e - the younglings of both sexes after the 
 initial moults resemble each other perfectly, and tend to resemble 
 the adult female. Thus the young male of Dictyna philoteichous bears a 
 close likeness in color and pattern to the adult female; but after final moult 
 the difference in color is quite marked, as well as in shape of palps and 
 contour of body. 
 
 Professor Peckham 1 finds a close resemblance between birds and spi- 
 ders in their moulting changes, and his special studies of the Attidse are 
 
 1 Occasional Papers, Nat. Hist. Soc, Wisconsin, Vol. L, 1880, page 1(1, George W. and 
 Elizabeth (i. Peckham. 
 
106 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Peck- 
 ham's 
 Studies. 
 Attidse. 
 
 valuable and interesting. He concludes that when the adult male is 
 more conspicuous than the adult female, the young of both sexes 
 closely resemble the latter in form and color. On the contrary, 
 when the female is more conspicuous the young follow the more 
 modest colors of the male, especially in the earlier moults. 
 When the adult sexes resemble one another the young of both 
 sexes favor the common type. 
 
 As examples of the above, Phidippus johnsonii female has the abdomen 
 red and black, with a white base and some white dots ; the male is bright 
 vermilion red, with sometimes a white band at the base. The young of 
 both sexes resemble the less showy mother until the last moult, when the 
 males assume their bright livery. 
 
 In another species, Habrocestum splendens, which the Peckhams illus- 
 trate with a good plate, the young during the first moults more closely 
 resemble the female, which is the less showy sex. The male is a brilliant 
 fellow, who dons his gorgeous livery at the last moult just as he becomes 
 mature, though in some species the nuptial robe is acquired one moult 
 before maturity. 
 
 Among the Laterigrades the same rule obtains, several species of 
 Thomisids sbowing greater brilliancy of color among the adult males, 
 while the young males resemble the female until the last moult. 
 In Sparassus smaragdalus 1 the female has a deep green body and 
 legs of somewhat lighter shade ; the male 2 has green corselet and 
 legs, but the entire dorsum of the abdomen yellow, with a wide herring 
 bone median stripe of red and the folium margined on each side with the 
 same color. The young at the first moult are a 
 dull whity-yellow color and grayish legs, but in 
 subsequent moults are said to resemble the mother. 
 Figs. 65 and 66 will illustrate the difference 
 resulting from the final moult of male spiders 
 generally. The drawings are made from a male 
 Zilla atrica, Fig. 65 being the form shortly before 
 the last moult and Fig. 66 that of the mature 
 male. In some species the difference between ma- 
 ture and immature palps is much more striking. 
 It is not correct to say that these modifica- 
 tions are effected in the interval of the last moult 
 alone. In point of fact the distinctions begin to appear earlier, but they 
 are commonly so difficult to detect, and the apparent change effected during 
 
 Lateri- 
 
 Fig. 65. Fig. 66. 
 
 Fig. 65. Immature male palp of 
 Zilla atrica. Fig. 66. The same 
 when mature. 
 
 1 A fine female of this species with her cocoon and young was taken by Rev. W. F. 
 Anderson, of Fordhani, N. Y., on the mountains of Switzerland and brought to America 
 safely. It was sent to me alive and lived several weeks. The young were all a dull yellow- 
 ish color with livid legs, but I could not preserve them beyond the first moult. 
 
 2 Blackwall, Spiders Gt. B. & I., Vol. II., pi. v., Fig. 61. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OP SPIDEKS. 107 
 
 the last moult is relatively so much greater, that one reasonably comes to 
 locate the transformation within the last moulting period. In some cases, 
 however, the coloration of the sexes is more strongly differenced during the 
 stages previous to final moult. Thus the color of male Trochosas during 
 the two or three last moults is notably clearer than that of females. With 
 Attus, in the corresponding periods, one may observe the sexual peculiari- 
 ties in color distinctly appearing, and that they deviate more and more 
 intensely with each moult, until the last fixes the distinction. Like the 
 male, the female awaits the final moult for perfect development, at which 
 time the genital cleft is freely opened and the hood and scapus assume 
 those various forms which serve as valuable specific characters. 
 
 " Leidy," one of my captive tarantulas, shed its skin several times. 
 The first moult occurred some time in August (1882). I had been absent 
 
 on my- usual summer vacation, and returning August 31st saw 
 Changeinth e animal lying on the soil about the middle of its araneary, 
 , " with its feet gathered together, looking dull, gray, and faded out, 
 
 apparently dead. I shook the globe. No responsive motion fol- 
 lowed, and I left without more careful observation, concluding tbat the 
 spider was dead. I was not able to visit it again until the fifth day of 
 September following. I threw off the cover of the globe and put my hand 
 in to take out the dead body, which lay apparently in the same position, 
 in order to preserve it in alcohol. At mj' touch the animal leaped to its 
 feet, and as I hastily withdrew my hand it presented itself quite changed 
 in appearance. The body was a fresh bright color, the cephalothorax a 
 clean whitish gray, the head and fangs dark brown. The abdomen was 
 black, with brown hairs covering it. The legs were black, with yellowish 
 brown hairs and spines. I at once understood that the spider when first 
 seen was in the torpid condition which usually immediately precedes the 
 act of moulting. In the interval between my visits it had cast off its skin, 
 which I found lying in a tolerably complete condition on one side of the 
 glass. Another tarantula, a male, which I received when quite young, 
 came to me a dull reddish brown, but during successive moults at last 
 appeared a bright black brown, almost black. 
 
 VIII. 
 
 We may -thus summarize the most important moulting phenomena, as 
 
 above disclosed. 1. The first two moults of spiderlings occur within the 
 
 cocoon or on the mother's back ; several occur before entrance 
 
 Biologi- U p 0n independent life, sometimes as many as four. 2. The 
 
 ca individuals of a brood do not all moult at once, and those moult- 
 
 mary. ..... ,-■■,•■, 
 
 nig first, having the greater strength, in some species feed upon 
 
 the younger and weaker individuals ; in these cases survival depends upon 
 
 priority of moult. In other species cannibalism is absent or rare, and 
 
108 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 early moulting gives no such advantage. 3. Young spiders moult rapidly 
 and easily, and with little loss of vitality; therefore precautions against 
 dangers incident to that period are scant or wanting. 4. The method 
 of moulting is substantially the same in all species. 5. The 
 6 ° S ' head and thorax moult first ; the old skin cleaves horizontally 
 about midway of the latter, the shells escaping backward and upward and 
 downward, the mouth parts adhering to the sternum moult ; the pedicle 
 splits longitudinally, holding the above parts severally to the upper and 
 lower front of the abdomen. The abdomen next follows, the shell escaping 
 backward entire ; then follow the legs, which are withdrawn from the old 
 sheaths downward by an interrupted series of muscular contractions and 
 strains, usually escaping entire and in succession, beginning with the first 
 pair. 
 
 6. The number of moults varies according to species, from seven to 
 ten being the most common limit ; these are made at intervals more or less 
 regular, and at corresponding periods of time in individuals of 
 erio ic- ^ e game S p ec i es or even genera. 7. The periodicity of moult- 
 ing is modified by amount of food, by temperature, and by causes 
 affecting the spider's normal health ; it is wholly suspended by the pres- 
 ence within the body of a larval parasite and by the prick of a wasp's 
 sting. 8. A period of relaxation and exhaustion, more extended and severe 
 as age increases, follows the moult. 9. Many species protect themselves 
 against this after-moult weakness by various precautions in accord with 
 their social nesting habits, such as creeping into crannies and leaf-rolled 
 dens, covering over burrows, et cetera. Sedentary spiders usually spin a 
 moulting frame. These precautions are commonly cotemporaneous with 
 the increasing difficulty of moulting. 
 
 10. Changes in color and pattern, more or less decided, occur with the 
 successive moults. 11. The young males and females are scarcely distin- 
 guishable just after the first moult, but the difference grows more 
 distinct with successive moults until the last moult, when the 
 animals are mature and the sexual characters distinctly marked ; at this 
 time the male form most widely diverges from that of the typical young. 
 12. The changes of skin are often attended with loss of limbs or parts 
 thereof, and death sometimes results from inanition ; the attendant 
 weakness exposes the subjects to assaults of stronger congeners and alien 
 enemies, so that moulting thus becomes a factor of danger to individual 
 life, and so to the perpetuation of the species. 
 
 IX. 
 
 We pass now from the biological phenomena of the moulting period to 
 consider the physiological and histological processes and changes connected 
 therewith. The most complete study of these has been made by Mr. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 109 
 
 Waldemar Wagner, the Russian savant, whose skillful and patient researches 
 have heretofore been quoted. I shall draw chiefly upon his work " La 
 Mue des Araignees " for the material which it serves me to pre- 
 Physio- g^ h ere jr or f u n information the student is referred to Mr. 
 og-ica Wagner's paper. It will sufficiently answer the purpose to give 
 Changes. a general notice of the development of the process, and to illus- 
 trate these by quoting somewhat in detail, in the case of several 
 organs, the genesis of the new skin and the rejection of the old. 
 
 Ordinarily the matrix of spiders presents a layer of protoplasm with 
 numberless cells. This is colored equally throughout, the cell, as usual, 
 being more, the plasma less, intensely colored. As the moulting time 
 approaches one ceases to observe this equality of coloration ; the superior 
 layers next the old cuticle are colored more and more feebly ; and finally, 
 at the moment when the contingent layer ceases to be colored and loses 
 its granulation, and when, consequently, we may rightly consider it as trans- 
 formed into a chitinogenous layer, then the future tegument begins slowly 
 to separate from the old. 
 
 As the new skin is retracted from the old cuticle the interval thus 
 formed is filled with liquid, in small quantity at first, but gradually 
 
 increased with the enlargement of £ 
 N ° rn ^?? the cavity. The new tegument 
 increases rapidly ; within the ceph- 
 alothorax, not being able to have full exten- 
 sion, it forms many folds (Fig. 67, f.n.t), ^ 67 \ fnt - folds of new tee»n>ent ; Mt, 
 
 . 1111,., i matrix; section showing folds of new 
 
 destroying thereby the layer of the old tegument under the old (o.t). 
 cuticle, which is drawn from it, and from which it is disengaged little by 
 little. On the abdomen one does not observe these foldings of the new 
 skin, because the old is there so pliable that it does not impede the growth 
 of the new. At the moment when the new hairs are completely formed 
 there remain of the old skin, separated from the new, only the tubes which 
 serve as sheaths for the new hairs; and, on the day of the moult or the 
 day before, these sheaths are destroyed, and the liquid underneath the 
 tegument disappears. 
 
 The moult of the eyes takes place simultaneously with the other organs ; 
 the matrix in process of growth insinuates itself between the vitreous body 
 and the preretinal envelope, the cells of which are in that way 
 Lungs forcec * u P war( i an <* lose their regular form. The moulting of all 
 the eight eyes does not take place at once, but probably at differ- 
 ent times. With Attus terrebratus, at least, the lateral eyes are the first to 
 end their moult. For a period longer or shorter before the rejection of the 
 old skin, according to the stage of development, spiders lose their sight, 
 and after the moult vision is not restored all at once.' 
 
 During the moulting of the lungs breathing is difficult, but the time 
 occupied therein is short. Two of the three layers which compose the 
 
110 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 tracheae are shed, the broken parts of the old tube remaining among the 
 silk threads of the moulting frame, and all glands formed by ectoder- 
 mic invagination also lose their linings. 
 
 The pharynx, oesophagus, and rectum take part in the moult, as do 
 also the tendons, especially the muscles of the limbs, the matrix growing 
 around the old tendon and forming a new one, while the old one atrophies 
 and is cast away with the tegument. 
 
 During moulting the number of spherical blood corpuscles, which usu- 
 ally is only three to four per cent, of the total number of corpuscles, 
 increases to ten per cent., almost all the red corpuscles being 
 R . e , transformed into spheres. Want of movement during the process 
 seems to be one but not the sole cause of this change in the 
 condition of the blood; and it must be remembered that a development 
 of all the internal parts of the body takes place at the moulting period, 
 so that the casting off of the integuments, etc., is really but a secondary act. 
 In the last stages of development, when the embryonic cuticle is secreted, 
 according to Schimkevitch certain cells of the chitinogcnous layer are aug- 
 mented in dimensions, taking a spherical form and dispersing themselves 
 under the chitinogenous layer, which forms above them something like a 
 raised vault above the cuticle. These are the future hairs. The nuclei of 
 these cells are of large size, but they are not very distinctly separated in con- 
 tour from environing cells. Some time thereafter these cells increase in size, 
 but their nuclei deviate proportionately less. These cells are already devel- 
 oped immediately under the cuticle ; it is evident that in growing 
 °" . e they have pushed the chitinogenous cells against the sides. The 
 contours of the trichogenous cells deviate more apparently, and the 
 •adjoining chitinogenous cells, from a contour ordinarily distinct, stretch out, 
 taking a semilunar form and investing by their sides the trichogenous 
 cells. The hair of spiders is a unicellular formation. 1 
 
 Mr. Wagner describes the origin of a new hair in detail. At a certain 
 epoch in the life of spiders more or less preceding the moult, according 
 . to the various species, the inferior layer of the old skin, as we 
 New have already seen, is retracted from the others, and the interval 
 
 Hairs. t ^ ius formed is filled with liquid. The retraction is effected 
 slowly. The sections made during that stage present the appear- 
 ance of Fig. 70. The inferior layer of the cuticle (in.lr.ct.o, Fig. 70) is 
 removed far from the other layers (ct.o), and the intervening space is filled 
 with liquid (lq), which is so formed that it floats the tube which at the 
 time has served to form the primitive hairs. The position in which one 
 sees it in the figure is not the most common, but is quite rare ; it is often 
 seen bent up in one fashion or another next the seat of the hair. 
 
 1 W. Schimkevitch, " Materiaux pour la connaisance du developpment des Araignees," 
 Memoirs Acad. Sci., St. Petersburg, 1886, Suppl. ant. LIL, No. 5. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OP SPIDERS. 
 
 Ill 
 
 While these things take place, one of the inferior trichogenous cells of 
 the matrix (nw.hcl) augments in size and stretches itself in the direction 
 of the hair tube (tu.oh) in the form of a light papilla (nw.hcl), which 
 originates the new hair. Some time thereafter this papilla ensheaths itself 
 within the cavity of the old hair tube, perforating the layer of the matrix 
 (mtx) situated above it. 
 
 Sometimes, near the extremity of the new hair, as is shown in Fig. 68 
 (tu.oh), one sees also the unsheathed tip of the new 
 hair (nw.hr) standing up freely, and the remainder 
 
 o."h. 
 mlt. 
 
 ct.o. 
 
 Y+-?wr,tvr 
 
 ywfcz 
 
 in.licto. ■if] / clilr. 
 
 Thus- JvcL. 
 
 Fio. 68. New hair, nw.hr, shown within its old sheath, tu.oh, the tip exposed, and the base of the moult, 
 mlt, pushed off. Fio. 69. Tip of new hair shown within the old sheath before moulting. Fig. 70. Sec- 
 tion showing the origin of a new hair (after Wagner) ; in.lr.cto, inferior layer of old cuticle, ct.o ; lq, 
 liquid filling interval ; tu.oh, tube or sheath of the old hair ; ch.lr, chitinous layer ; nw.hcl, new hair 
 cell; mtx, matrix! rt.nw.hr, root of new hair. References uniform in the figures. 
 
 thereof enclosed within the sheath. At the same time is seen the pubes- 
 cence upon the new hair, and its root (rt.nw.hr, Fig. 68). The relations 
 of the tip of the hair to the old tegument are shown at Fig. 69. At this 
 epoch the liquid (lq, Fig. 70), which filled the space between the old and 
 new skin, disappears ; afterward the sheath of the new hair breaks and 
 is seen entirely formed under the old skin. 
 
112 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Poison 
 Gland. 
 
 X. 
 
 The poison glands after the first moult are situated with Attus in the 
 mandibles, and do not pass beyond those limits. Further on, as with 
 the Lycosid (Trochosa), the inferior end of the gland is placed 
 rather below the median line of the mandible. (Fig. 71, gl.v.) 
 Afterwards the superior parts of the gland issue beyond the 
 mandible for a third of their length (Fig. 72), and their inferior extremi- 
 ties do not reach the median line of the mandible. Finally, after a series 
 of moults, the gland is no longer found within the mandible, but extends 
 wholly beyond it (Fig. 73), and is withdrawn farther and farther with 
 every moult. At the same time the dimensions of the gland increase as 
 well as the number of muscular fibres; a fact which gives us a measure 
 of the phylogenetic development of any spider thus tested. 
 
 With the genus Epeira the poison glands are relatively large. They arc 
 placed in the anterior part of the cephalothorax at some distance from the 
 mandibles, with which they are joined 
 by quite a long conduit. With the Clu- 
 bionidae these glands are of a much 
 smaller size than with Epeira, and only 
 a part thereof is found within the ceph- 
 alothorax, the remainder of the gland 
 being situated within the basal joint of 
 the mandible. With the Mygalidse the 
 whole gland is located with- 
 in the basal joint. It will 
 thus be seen that the modi- 
 fications in the poison gland 
 accomplished by successive 
 moults in advancing age 
 are, first, the increase in moulting of poison gland in trochosa. 
 
 tsiyp-nnrl <?Pf>nnrl trip pVinno-p Fm - n - Venom gland, gl.v, at an early stage, inside the mandible ; 
 Size, d,nu, beCOIlU, in eon ailge cr| the duct. Bto. 72. Gland at further stage. Fig. 73. Gland 
 Of position. after nnal mou lt. withdrawn beyond the mandible. 
 
 A study of the rejected moult of a spider shows well the thickened 
 points of insertion of the muscles of the abdomen, which in that organ 
 are, characteristically, immediately upon the cuticle. Upon the 
 Abdomi- j n f er i or or ventral part of the abdominal moult, according to 
 Wagner, there are two median rows of thickenings, consisting of 
 sixteen pairs, a little removed from one another (Fig. 74, Nos. 
 1-16); then two rows of lateral thickenings. (Fig. 74, Nos. 17-39.) These 
 rows consist of twenty-three pairs of thickenings disposed first (near to the 
 lungs) irregularly, and then in lines almost straight and parallel to the 
 two medians. In all, there are on the inferior face of the abdomen thirty- 
 nine pairs of thickenings, representing the points of insertion. Besides 
 
 nal Mus- 
 cles. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OF SPIDERS. 
 
 113 
 
 these there is a large number of points of immediate insertion of the 
 muscles upon the cuticle without thickening of the chitine at that point. 
 Like conformations are observed upon the dorsal face of the abdomen. 
 These are near the local thickenings of the chitine at the points of inser- 
 tion of the dorso-ventral muscles, o 
 and in the interval comprised be- 
 tween the lines of the local thick- 
 enings upon the dorsal face and the 
 lateral line of thickenings. (Fig. 
 74, Nos. 17 and 39.) 
 
 An examination of rejected teg- 
 uments shows the existence of two 
 forms of points of insertion, which 
 differ in structure and size. One 
 presents a thickening, more or less 
 considerable, of a sculpture tuber- 
 culous upon thq exterior (Fig. 75), 
 and having a row of cells and walls 
 more or less thick upon the inte- 
 rior. (Fig. 76.) Each of these cells 
 serves for a point of immediate in- 
 sertion upon a fasciculus of muscles, 
 so that the number of cells indicates 
 the number of fasciculi. The other 
 mode of immediate insertion of the 
 muscles shows no thickenings of the 
 chitine ; but one observes at these 
 points upon the tegument certain 
 linear thickenings, hardly distinct, which indicate the limits of the point 
 of insertion of the muscles and of each of the fibres taking part. 
 
 One can hardly fail to note that the arrangement of these points of 
 attachment indicates in a general way, and indeed with tolerable accuracy, 
 ,. . the outlines of the markings which 
 
 ^r\j^ distinguish these animals. For the 
 
 most part these are so grouped as 
 to form a folium or rude figure of 
 a leaf with various irregularities, as 
 scallops and dentations, upon the 
 edge. The thickenings first de- 
 scribed are always of a yellow col- 
 or, more or less intense ; a color 
 which is the dominant one in nearly all families of spiders showing decided 
 hues. In the second form of attachment the cuticle is colorless and trans- 
 parent. In both cases the skin above the points of insertion is without 
 
 >6 
 
 Fig. 74. (After Wagner.) Rejected tegument of spider's 
 abdomen, ventral part, showing points for muscular 
 attachment; o, genital orifice; pr, pores; 1-16, sixteen 
 pairs of points of insertion of two median series of 
 muscles; 17-39, twenty-three pairs of points of inser- 
 tion for two lateral series ; pou, gills. 
 
 PlO. 75. Fig. 76. 
 
 Points op Insertion op Dorso-ventral Muscles. 
 p ig. 76. Exterior tuberculous sculpture, with thick- 
 ening. Fig. 76. Interior cells, without thickening. 
 (After Wagner.) 
 
114 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 hairs, and the linear thickenings of the tegument, in approaching these 
 points, surround them in concentric circles. I have heretofore suggested 
 that all action of the muscles upon the abdominal tegument may have 
 much influence in the distribution of color for the formation of various 
 patterns which mark spiders. 1 
 
 Fig. 77 represents the tarsus and metatarsus of a Lycosid foot (Taran- 
 tula), taken from the rejected skin. The tendons by which the tarsus and 
 claw are moved are shown within the leg, and one sees the 
 Tendons t ] lickening f t h e tendons (e.t) at their free ends upon which 
 the muscles are inserted. The claw and the entire dentition 
 thereof, as may be seen, have left a perfect cast in the moulted tegument. 
 The tendon passes from the claw in the form of a thick 
 double cord, traversing the tarsus apart and uniting at the 
 articulation with the metatarsus, which joint is traversed 
 nearly to the articulation with the tibia, where the cords 
 join with the short stout muscles in- 
 serted into the cuticle at that *x« 
 
 ®? k . point. The silk glands in 
 Glands. l .. ° , 
 
 moulting undergo changes 
 
 both in form and number, as with the 
 
 tubuliform glands of tarantula shown 
 
 at Fig. 78, after the second and third 
 
 moults. Three different forms of glands 
 
 appear (gl 1, gl 2, gl 3), corresponding 
 
 ... .., ,, u, iii- FIG. 78. Silk glands of a ta- 
 
 possibly with the ampullate, tubuli- rentula at tne period8 of 
 form, and pyriform glands of Epeira. second and third moults. 
 Adult spiders of the two sexes, according to Wagner, do 
 
 Fig. 77. Moult of 
 final joints of a Ly- 
 
 cosid foot, show- n0 ( j a i wa y S possess the same silk glands. The females have 
 
 (e.t) that move the glands not observed in the males, which this author be- 
 
 tarsus and claw. ij eves serve to supply the cocooning silk. However, in the 
 
 earliest stages of life the silk glands of the male and female are alike. 
 
 XL 
 
 These physiological facts in the moulting processes of spiders Mr. 
 Wagner has himself thus summarized: 1. The rejection of the old skin 
 constitutes only a part of the moulting process, and that a sec- 
 ondary one. 2. The processes of a moult, in some of their features, 
 commence a comparatively long time before, and end after the 
 rejection of the skin and in connection therewith. 3. The spider, partly 
 before casting off the old skin, partly at the moment of the act, and even 
 for a brief period afterward, is deprived of some of its faculties : of sight, 
 
 Sum- 
 mary. 
 
 Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Philadelphia, 1888, page 173. 
 
MOULTING HABITS OP SPIDERS. 115 
 
 hearing, and touch, of movement, and even of respiration for a short time. 
 4. To the moult are subject most of the ectodermic and part of the meso- 
 dermic products. 5. The blood corpuscles, which with spiders are formed at 
 the expense of the endoderm, are subject at each moult to periodic modifica- 
 tions, the final result of which is their proliferation. The number of red 
 blood corpuscles increases from being three or four per cent, to become ten 
 per cent, of the whole. 6. Cotemporaneously with the above named periodic 
 processes of moulting are wrought certain constant processes of interior 
 and exterior modifications, which are chiefly accomplished at the moulting 
 period with which they are found in more or less direct connection. 7. 
 The modifications to which spiders are subject during their post embryonic 
 development are by no means limited to shape and to the final develop- 
 ment of the genital organs. 8. With the moulting of spiders are connected 
 certain special faculties, which are proper to the animal only during the 
 moulting period, such, for example, is the faculty of renewing lost organs. 
 Thus, if a spider's foot be lost during that period of life within which it 
 is subject to moulting changes, it will be renewed after every moult ; but if 
 a, limb be lost after the same period it will never be restored. 9. In con- 
 nection with one or another of its various, moults, the spider is found in 
 possession of certain provisional organs, some of which soon disappear, 
 others only with sexual maturity. 10. Finally, it may be stated that the 
 moulting processes of spiders are almost exactly similar to those of the 
 larvse of insects which undergo an incomplete metamorphosis, as the 
 Orthoptera, Pscudoncuroptcra, and Hemiptera. 
 
CHAPTER VI. 
 
 REGENERATION OF LOST ORGANS AND ANATOMICAL 
 NOMENCLATURE. 
 
 I. 
 
 The regeneration of a spider's lost legs and palps is a fact well known, 
 and has been a subject of much observation, experiment, and speculation. 
 
 In brief, it may be said that the action is the result of two 
 Renewal p rocesseS) the atrophy of the old tissues and the formation of 
 o Lost new ^ w ]j£ c ]j are effected simultaneously and in the same period of 
 
 time. If a spider's leg be severed by accident or amputated, all 
 
 the tissues which fill the stump of the leg gradually disappear, and within 
 
 the cavity so formed a new organ originates and is completely developed. 
 
 Among early writers upon this phenomenon is Dr. Heineken, who 
 
 reached the following conclusions: 1 (1) Spiders can not only reject a 
 
 mutilated extreme joint, but reproduce it; (2) as the period of 
 
 Heine- moulting ceases reproduction ceases also, even from the suture ; 
 
 ens "(3) the power of reproducing the limbs is restricted to certain 
 
 tions periods of spiders' lives, but as soon as the animal ceases to 
 
 moult its skin, in other words, becomes adult, its limbs cease to 
 be reproduced ; (4) until the growth of the limb was perfected, it appeared 
 to Heineken that between the different moults little increase took place, 
 and the act of moulting two or three times seemed to accomplish the full 
 formation of the limb ; (5) up to the period of the next moult the stump 
 or suture, whichever it might be, remained externally unchanged ; (6) 
 the animal retired into a covering which it had woven for a day or 
 two and then came forth with the limb or joint renovated. The above 
 conclusions have been since shown to be substantially correct. 
 
 Some of bis inferences, however, are not yet verified, for example, 
 his experiments and observations which seemed to indicate that spiders 
 possess the power of throwing off their joints at will, at least under cer- 
 tain circumstances. A large Lycosa, dropped by him into boiling water, 
 instantly parted with six legs at the sutures. Another Lycosa on being 
 held by one hind leg instantly threw it off. I have met nothing that 
 confirms these statements, and know no similar records ; and do not believe 
 
 1 Experiments and Observations on the Casting Off and Reproduction of Legs in Crabs 
 and Spiders by C. Heineken, M. D., Zoological Journal, Vol. IV., 1828-9, pages 284-294. 
 
 (116) 
 
REGENERATION OF LOST ORGANS. 117 
 
 that spiders have the power to cast off limhs at will. The first example 
 may have been a coincidence of the experiment with the full time for 
 moulting, when the old tegument was just ready to be cast and was at 
 once rejected through the sudden shock of the hot water plunge and the 
 violent death struggles. The second case may have been simply an actual 
 loss of a leg bj' handling. 
 
 Dr. Heineken, however, seemed to have no doubt as to the power of 
 the animal to reject a leg. Moreover, he noted that the spiders which 
 cast off crushed limbs were " hunters ;" those which retained 
 nutation them * ne webmakers ; a difference for which he accounts by 
 supposing that the former, perhaps, have the strongest induce- 
 ment to the act, as an inert and powerless joint would be a greater 
 inconvenience to them than the loss of the whole limb. Furthermore, 
 a webmaker, being of stationary habit, is less liable to accidents than the 
 hunter, which is constantly on the move, and generally exposed. On this 
 point I may remark that I have often met Orbweavers with one, two, 
 four, and even five legs wanting, the result either of moulting mishaps, 
 or of adventures and battles with assailants of various sorts. It is not 
 uncommon to find males in this condition, a consequence of the unfa- 
 vorable attitude of females in courtship. One also occasionally finds 
 spiders with contorted legs which we would think might better be off 
 than on, did the aranead have the power of self amputation. Certainly, 
 these lost and wounded limbs did not prevent the spinning of snares, 
 for I have seen in two cases, at least, an Orbweaver with all the legs 
 wanting on one side weaving an efficient web. 
 
 Mr. Francis R. Welsh writes me that he saw an Orbweaver, which was 
 probably Epeira insularis, that had lost seven of its feet (not legs) grasp 
 with its spinnerets a spiral of its web, underneath which it hung, and 
 hang thereto by the spinnerets only. It did not attach a dragline. It 
 afterwards hung and moved by bowing its legs over the spirals of its 
 web. A loss of this peculiar nature would probably have been occasioned 
 by impeded moulting, and illustrates not only the perils of this act, but 
 also the spider's power of adapting itself to extraordinary disadvantages. 
 
 Blackwall has published several important papers on this subject. 1 But 
 for the most thorough and satisfactory studies of the regeneration of 
 excised members we are indebted to Mr. Waldemar Wagner. 
 w , This enthusiastic araneologist has pursued the entire histological 
 development of certain organs, especially the legs, from the 
 moment of amputation until the appearance of the new limb, and I shall 
 undertake to interpret, substantially, the facts as recorded by him. 2 
 
 1 See, as already quoted, Trans. Linn. Soc, Vol. XVI., pages 482-84 ; Proceed. Brit. Assn. 
 Advc. Sci., Vol. XIV., pages 70-74, and Spid. Gt. Brit, and Ir., Introduction, page 7. 
 
 3 " La Regeneration des Organes Perdus cher. les Araignees." Voldemar Wagner. Bull, 
 d. 1. Soc. ImpiSr. des Naturalistes de Moscow, 1887, No. 4. 
 
118 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 II. 
 
 According to this observer, if a spider (Trochosa) lose a foot while 
 very young, it will be restored at the last moult with such perfection that 
 it cannot be distinguished from the others. If the member be 
 lost at a more advanced age, after the eighth or ninth moult, it 
 Limbs. ^.^ be renewe( j imperfectly, and although the number of joints 
 will be complete the restored limb can easily be distinguished. This is 
 illustrated in Fig. 79-, a drawing of the Huntsman spider, Heteropota ven- 
 atoria, a specimen which I obtained in Florida, one of whose hind legs 
 is seen to be shorter than the other, a moulting defect. In such cases 
 the defective limb is usually not only shorter but smaller, of paler color 
 and with less numerous hairs. Such a fact indicates that Nature has 
 provided a certain amount of vital force and substance, for the exigen- 
 cies of a spider's life, which cannot wholly answer the draughts made by 
 the regeneration of adult limbs, although responding invariably to the 
 
 I'Hi. 79. Huntsman spider with one leg (4) shortened in moulting. 
 
 recuperative demands of early life. I have already referred to another 
 case in point, a large tarantula, when speaking of the dangers of the 
 moulting period. 1 
 
 As to the relative perfection with which lost limbs are reproduced, 
 Black wall considered it to be in inverse ratio to the extent of injury. 
 
 Thus he found that palps and legs detached at the coxa were 
 Imperfect usua n v reproduced symmetrical but diminutive ; while those 
 , ep .. " amputated at the articulation of the digital with the radial joint, 
 
 and near the middle of the tibia or of the metatarsus, were 
 always much larger and unsymmetrical when restored. In point of fact, 
 therefore, the development of the new limb depends upon the vital capacity 
 of the undetached part. Thus, if a leg be amputated near the middle of 
 
 See Chapter V., above. 
 
REGENERATION OF LOST ORGANS. 119 
 
 the metatarsus the whole portion between that joint and the body will 
 be reproduced of the same dimensions as the corresponding parts on the 
 opposite leg ; but the severed metatarsus and the tarsus will reappear much 
 diminished. Precisely corresponding results follow similar excisions of any 
 other joint. 1 
 
 In order to define the time necessary for regeneration of a lost limb 
 Wagner cropped the feet of a number of subjects of different ages. He 
 found that if the foot was amputated a little before the moulting period 
 it was not renewed after the act, but instead a whitish papilla was seen 
 in the stump where the future organ originates. After the next succeeding 
 moult the member appeared small, pale, short, but after the moult next 
 following that it was thicker and more like the normal. If the leg were 
 amputated immediately after a moult it would be restored during the 
 interval preceding the next moult. 
 
 As a general rule it may be announced that a lost organ is restored in 
 a period of time equal to that which separates two successive moults at that 
 stage in the development of the spider during which the limb is 
 Period- \ os ^ jf ^j ie f 00 j f a S pid e r is removed only two or three days 
 p 1 y ° after*a moult, a new limb is formed in the period which remains 
 ation until the following moult. For example, if the leg of Trochosa 
 
 be removed during the period of the second moult, the forma- 
 tion of a new member requires only five days, as that number is just the 
 period which separates the second moult from the third. If the leg be 
 cut away in the period of the sixth moult, a new one is formed in the 
 space of ten days, because between the sixth and seventh moult there is 
 an interval of from ten to twelve days. Thus, if the leg is clipped one 
 or two days after a moult, a new member will ordinarily have time to 
 form before the following moult. 
 
 On the contrary, should a leg or a part thereof be removed at a period, 
 before the moult next to follow, shorter than that naturally required at 
 that stage of development for complete renewal, then the appearance of a 
 new member will be deferred until another moult shall occur; 2 that is 
 to say, two moults must intervene before the lost part is made good. For 
 example, Mr. Wagner cut off the leg of a Trochosa four days after the 
 sixth moult ; the seventh moult took place ten days thereafter, but a new 
 limb was not then formed, and did not appear until the next following 
 moult, viz., the eighth, which occurred eighteen days after the seventh. 
 In such a case, and all others, the stump of the severed limb, healed and 
 overdosed by its chitinous cicatrix, retains the same appearance until replaced 
 by the new member. 
 
 This process of regeneration will be continued, as often as losses occur, 
 during that period of life when the spider is subject to moult, that is to 
 
 1 Blat-kwall, Brit. Spid., Int., page 8. * Blackwall also observed this fact. 
 
120 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 say, until complete sexual maturity. After that period no lost organ or 
 part thereof will be renewed, no matter how long thereafter the spider may 
 live. The function is thus evidently designed to favor the maturity of the 
 species and so insure its continuance. 
 
 III. 
 
 As has been said, the regeneration of lost organs is the result of two 
 processes, equally important and interesting, the atrophy of the old tissues 
 and the formation of new. If one cuts off a spider's foot all the 
 Atrophy tissues which fill up the remainder of the limb disappear, and 
 °. simultaneously a new organ is originated and completely devel- 
 
 oped within the cavity of the joint from which the old tissues 
 have been atrophied. 
 
 Immediately after the operation Nature begins to cover up the wound, 
 the blood cells form a thick cellular mass, which in the course of three 
 
 days is formed into a 
 hard, dark scab, which 
 serves 'as a stopple to 
 the open wound. This 
 is shown at Fig. 80, 
 and a longitudinal sec- 
 tion at Fig. 81. In 
 fig. so. fig. 8i. the latter, one sees the 
 
 Fig. 80. View of healed stump of a spider's amputated limb. Fig. 81. Lou- old Cuticle (ct) United 
 gitudinal section of same; ctx, the cicatrix; ct, cuticle; mss, granular , - , , 
 
 mass next the cicatrix; ch.c, chitinized cells; b.c.a., amoeboid blood cells; With the SCat), ailCl the 
 
 b.cr., red blood ceiis. chitinous membrane 
 
 under which is the row of deep cells of the matrix (Mtx). Immediately 
 
 under the surface of the cicatrix lies a mass (mss) of unstratified 
 Forma- granular matter, next to which is a nest of cells arranged in 
 Cicatrix rows one a1aove another, gradually diminishing in length and 
 
 receding into the cavity beneath. Of these the upper tier are 
 "chitinized" cells (ch.c), and the remainder blood cor- 
 puscles, both red (b.cr) and amoeboid (b.c.a). The transi- 
 tion or destruction of these cells, and their metamorphosis 
 into the structureless mass of the covering cicatrix, is 
 accomplished gradually. 
 
 Now the matrix, which alone of all the tissues does 
 not undergo entire degeneration, begins to retract little by 
 
 little from the cuticle, thus parting from the 
 Retrac- cicatrice. It commences at the top of the joint 
 Matrix within whose cavity its ends are approximated. 
 
 It is withdrawn more and more, forming above 
 the old tissues a sort of cupola, to use Wagner's word. 
 
 Fig. 82. 
 Fig. 82. Appearance of 
 stump when matrix, 
 Mtx, begins to re- 
 tract ; A, B, lower and 
 upper cavities ; O, ori- 
 fice between them ; 
 cicatrix, ctx. 
 
1UCGENEKATI0N OF LOST OHGANS. 
 
 121 
 
 Red 
 
 Blood 
 
 Cells. 
 
 Tli is may be seen in the series of figures 82, 83, 85. At first the cupola 
 
 and the cavity beneath are large (Figs. 82, 83), but as the tissues that fill 
 
 the cavity decay and disappear they diminish more and more (Figs. 85, 86), 
 
 shrinking gradually towards the base of the joint. 
 
 The tissue of the matrix is only atrophied in part ; really, it is in those 
 
 parts which converge above the cavity of the joint at the summit of the 
 
 cupola, that is to say, where the amputation has produced a rent, that one 
 
 observes the regeneration of the fatty tissue. The deep regular cells seen at 
 
 the junction (Mtx) entirely disappear, and also afterward the part contiguous 
 
 to the matrix. 
 
 The red blood cells, after part of them have been regenerated and given 
 
 birth to the cicatrix, dis- j^t-o 
 
 pose themselves in different *■ ctT1 • 
 
 parts of the joint. They 
 
 glide between the fibres of 
 
 muscles and into the clefts 
 
 which are formed by their 
 gradual bending. 
 The orifice form- 
 ed after the oper- 
 ation at the sum- 
 mit of the joint between the 
 
 fragments of the matrix 
 
 (Fig. 84, O), in spite of the Mt. 
 
 gradual approximation of 
 
 the extremities of the ma- 
 
 trix (Figs. 85, 86, O), re- e * 
 
 mains open. In the degree 
 
 that the summit of the 
 
 cupola sinks the orifice 
 
 becomes narrower, which, 
 
 however, does not hinder 
 
 the blood cells from pen- Fig. 83. A transverse section of the stump of a foot eighteen days after 
 
 etl'atinC thprpbv from the imputation; Mt.r, place in the matrix where the regeneration of 
 
 ° J t grease is seen; Ms, muscles; gig, globules of grease; p.g, portions 
 
 lower part of the Cavity Of of grease ; pt. I, part of the new formed foot next the base ; pt. 3, 
 
 the iniiit CTTirre 8 1 ! 8P A1 extremity of the same ; pt. 2, part between the above two ; Ms.n, 
 
 tilt, J uml ^ rl b s - 00 > 00 > IV ) muscles of the new formation; ct.n, cuticle of same; chg.n, chi- 
 
 illto the Upper part situ- tinous layer of same; cam, free nuclei of red blood cells ; c.sa, 
 
 .ji ,, i /T -,. amoeboid blood cells; cj, color cells. 
 
 ated above the cupola (Figs. 
 
 85, 86, B), to contribute to the work of nourishing the new limb. It is 
 only when the new organ (Fig. 86) is completely formed that those disap- 
 pear. At that epoch the extremities of the old matrix, then sunken 
 almost to the base of the stump, are joined, and the orifice between the 
 cavities below and above the cupola is closed. Shortly thereafter the 
 process of the disappearance of the old tissues ends. 
 
122 AM1CRICAN SPIDEKS AND THEIK SPINNINGWOKK. 
 
 IV. 
 
 The atrophy of the muscles hegins by their regeneration into globules 
 of grease (gl.g, Fig. 83), which, as the process progresses, are conjoined, 
 embracing one another without interblending, forming large drops 
 Atrophy or j )0r ti ns of grease (pg), whose ultimate role is to undergo 
 of Mus- decomposition and serve as nutritive matter. Three days after 
 amputation these fatty globules may be seen among the fibres 
 of the muscles, and along with them blood corpuscles ; the latter undergo 
 modification in size, increasing to three or four times their original volume. 
 It appears that the regeneration of the grease does not continue until the 
 final disappearance of the muscles, but extends to the epoch at which the 
 transverse striation disappears. 
 
 Eighteen or nineteen days after amputation the muscles that had 
 decayed from the joint show fine fibrilles, without transverse striation, 
 which generally disappear very gradually and slowly. A few days there- 
 after there remain only a few fragments of muscular tissue floating within 
 a structureless mass, wherein the blood cells, which they there meet under 
 their special forms, put an end to their activity, and destroy the final 
 remainders of mortification. 
 
 Fig. 83 presents a view of the process as above described, which is rep- 
 resented in the lower part of the drawing beneath the cupola formed by the 
 retracted matrix. Here is indicated the point in the matrix where 
 Origin t ] ie regeneration of fatty globules has begun (Mt.r) ; the globules 
 of New an( j <jrops f g rease (gl. g) p.g) are seen floating in the struct- 
 ureless mass of nutritive material which is being recruited by 
 the decay of the muscles. 
 
 One sees the distribution of this material through the orifice in the 
 cupola, into the upper cavity of the stump, and therein the new limb is 
 seen in process of formation. The part next the base of the new joint is 
 shown at pt 1 ; that which is to form the tip at pt 3, and the middle 
 part of the neoformation at pt 2. 
 
 V. 
 
 Soon after amputation, three to five days with spiders of middle age, 
 in that part of the matrix which at this epoch is retracted from the 
 
 cuticle, one sees appearing upon the superior or dorsal part of 
 Origin t ] ie CU p i a an excrescence or papilla. (Fig. 84, pt.) The matrix 
 ° ew and the conjunctive tissue beneath it are bent, and thus form 
 
 this excrescence. The cavity of this excrescence contains blood 
 cells. This papilla grows rapidly in length. and soon bends at the summit. 
 (Fig. 85, pt.) At this epoch its basal part begins to articulate, presenting 
 thus the first joint of the foot, the basal joint, pending which the others 
 do not exist at all. This joint is the thicker part of the neoformation. 
 
REGENERATION OK LOST ORGANS. 
 
 123 
 
 (Fig. 85, ar.) It afterwards increases from one end to the other more 
 equally in length than in width, and nineteen or twenty days afterward, 
 with a tarentula of middle age, it presents an organ long, almost com- 
 pletely formed, gradually diminishing from the hase towards the extremity, 
 and much twisted. The articulations of this organ are formed successively 
 from the base towards the periphera, the second forms after the first, the 
 third after the second, etc. Consequently, this process is accomplished 
 nearly as that described by Clarapede 1 for Lycosids in their embryonic 
 period. Thus is accomplished successivel}' the isolation of the tissues be- 
 tween the base of the joint and its extremity. Pending this; near the base 
 of the foot, one readily observes muscular fibres (Fig. 83, pt 1, and Ms.n), and 
 on the surface a chitinous membrane (ct.n), a little elongated at the base. 
 (Fig. 83, pt 2.) Here one does not notice that the muscles are isolated, or 
 anything but chitinous teg- 
 ument (ct.n) ; the tip of the 
 foot (pt 3) only the chitino- 
 genous layer is isolated. 
 
 Sections of this new 
 organ at different stages of 
 its development show that 
 it first originates the ma- 
 trix of the papilla ; its cells 
 at its periphera are in im- 
 mediate contact with the 
 blood, environing the neo- 
 formation. In the mean- 
 time, as the neo- 
 
 . . formation grows, the exterior layer of the matrix is more and 
 Hairs. more feebly colored ; at this epoch the superficial part may be 
 regarded as chitinous tegument. The tegument is very fine, and 
 does not form simultaneously upon all the neoformation, but gradually, its 
 growth extending from the base towai'ds the periphera. Thus the neofor- 
 mation presents, from the exterior inwardly, first, a chitinous tegument ; 
 second, a chitinogenous layer beneath it; third, the matrix. Within the 
 latter the hairs originate from elongated trichogenous cells, in no way 
 differing from that already described during moulting, 2 except, of course, 
 that no sheath of the old skin appears in the process. 
 , The above statements present the general features of the processes from 
 which results the regeneration in spiders of a lost organ. Mr. Wagner adds 
 the following deductions: 1. The blood corpuscles, under the influence 
 of certain conditions, arc subject to metamorphosis, the final result of 
 which is the formation of a tissue which resembles chitine. 2. The 
 
 Series Showing 
 
 e Gradual Development of the New Limb 
 within the Old Stump. 
 
 Kic 
 
 Side view, showing on the retracted matrix. Mt, a small 
 papilla, pt, the beginning of the new leg. Bto, 85. A further 
 stage of growth ; ar, base of the new organ. Kir.. 86. New limb 
 just before the moult, folded up within the stump. Other let- 
 ters as above. (After Wagner.) 
 
 1 Recherches sur devolution des Araignces. 
 
 J See Chapter V., Fig. 13. 
 
124 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 matter of those tissues which are atrophied and undergo the regenera- 
 tion of the fat benefits the organism in three ways : First, in transmitting 
 
 that matter by means of the amoeboid blood cells, which assim- 
 Deduc- ilate an( j pi asma ti ca iiy digest it, 1 essentially after the regeneration 
 
 of grease becomes less intense, and even appears to have touched 
 its limit. Second, in transmitting the matter by means of the red blood cells 
 which assimilate it by absorption. Third, by means of globules of grease, 
 which in themselves present certain forms whose role is to transport the 
 nutritive matter into the whole body. 3. It is doubtful whether, without 
 cooperation of blood cells, regeneration of fatty tissues would proceed to 
 complete disappearance; if it could occur it would be after a considerable 
 and indefinite time. 4. The process of degeneration of muscular tissue in 
 spiders, in its general traits, suggests that of vertebrate animals. 
 
 . SR 
 
 VI. 
 
 In the descriptive matter to which the second part of this volume is 
 devoted certain terms and abbreviations are used that require explanation 
 
 and illustration, which it seems best to 
 Nomen- j nser t together at this point for con- 
 caur.eo vcnience of reference. The quadrilat- 
 tion era, l described by the middle group of 
 
 four eyes (MF and MR) is called the 
 ocular quadrilateral, or more commonly " ocular 
 quad " (Fig. 87, ocq), as at once a brief and 
 definitive term. The ocular area or eye space 
 (es) is that part of the face over which the eight 
 eyes are distributed. The curvature of the eye 
 sRrsidefront and "sMerear" eyes'; rows forms an important characteristic in deter- 
 oc.q, ocular quad; v, vertex. mining species. The rows are said to be pro- 
 
 curved when the concavity is directed forward toward the mandibles, and 
 recurved when the concavity is directed backward. When the row is 
 straight, or nearly so, it is said to be " aligned," or nearly so. In deter- 
 mining the curvature the _^~ fts _ 
 ' eye rows have been looked fij_& °iJ?) ksr^^i^i 
 at from the front, and a little be- ( if ] 
 low the horizon of the front row. Fl( . m 
 It is often difficult to determine the 
 exact curvature, especially as it dif- Fia "• Front rowr ' 
 
 or 
 
 Fig. 87. Face of orbweaver ; cly 
 clypeus; cs, eye space; MF, MR. 
 midfront and midrear eyes ; SF. 
 
 The Eyes. 
 
 Fig. 89. 
 Curvature op Eve 
 
 Both rows procurved. Fig. 90. Front row nearly aligned, 
 slightly recurved, rear row procurved. 
 
 ers with the point of vision. In 
 Fig. 88 the front row of eyes is recurved, the rear row slightly procurved ; 
 in Fig. 89 the front as well as the rear row is procurved ; in Fig. 90 the 
 front row is nearly aligned, the rear procurved. 
 
 1 See Wagner, " Du Sang des Araignees." 
 
ANATOMICAL NOMENCLATURE. 
 
 125 
 
 Epigy 
 num. 
 
 In measuring the eyes, the unit for determining the distance between 
 any two, as MF or MR, is the diameter of the pair under considera- 
 tion. In measuring the distance between the middle group of eyes, 
 whether of the front or rear row, and the side group, the unit of measure 
 is usually the linear space occupied by the same, that is, the distance from 
 outer margin to outer margin ; in other words, the width of the front or 
 rear sides of the middle quadrilateral. This line is spoken of technically 
 as the " area " or the " alignment." (Fig. 87, ar.) Thus the area of MF 
 is the line from the outside of one midfront eye to the outside of the other. 
 Sometimes the space between the midfront eyes is also used as a unit. 
 
 The clypeus (cly, Fig. 87) is that part of the face lying between the 
 front row of eyes and the anterior lower margin thereof, where it meets 
 
 the mandibles. The clypeus is spoken of as " high " or " low," as 
 Clypeus ^j ie S p ace above named is greater or less ; or sometimes the words 
 
 " wide " and " narrow " are used as equivalent to the above. The 
 
 height or width of the 
 clypeus is measured by the dis- 
 tance of its margin from the two 
 midfront eyes, and the diameter of 
 one of these is the unit for such 
 measurement. 
 
 The views of the epigynum or 
 external part of the female genital, 
 in the various plates, are taken with 
 the spider lying upon the back and 
 the observer looking down upon her 
 from the direction of the spinner- 
 ets. The drawings therefore show 
 the lower side of the organ unless 
 otherwise specified. 
 
 The following terms are used in 
 describing the cephalothorax : The dorsal part is known as the " corselet " 
 (Fig. 91, crs), of which the posterior part is the base (ba), and this is 
 
 usually smooth, truncated, and indented where overhung by the 
 , . abdomen. The depression on the summit is the median fosse, or 
 
 simply " fosse " (fs) ; the slight furrows extending from the fosse 
 to the insertion of the legs are " corselet grooves " (eg) or furrows. The 
 line of union between caput and corselet is the "cephalic suture" (c.su) ; 
 that part of the head extending from the suture to the vertex I have called 
 the caput (cap), as distinguished from the vertex or forehead and the face. 
 The under part of the cephalothorax is the sternum (Fig. 92, str), which is 
 a more or less oval or cordate or subtriangular shield, sometimes much 
 indented or scalloped at the coxal insertions and pointed at the base (ba). 
 Opposite the coxse, in some species, are slight eminences technically referred 
 
 str 
 
 Pro. 91. Bio. 92. 
 
 Cephalothorax and Parts thereof. 
 Fig. 91. Crs, corselet ; eg, corselet grooves ; fs, median 
 fosse; ba, base of corselet; ind, indentation thereof; 
 cap, caput ; mg, margin of corselet ; c.su, cephalic 
 suture ; es, eye space ; o.q, ocular quad. Fig. 92. Ster- 
 num and mouth parts. Str, sternum ; s.co, sternal 
 cones ; ba, base of sternum ; ap, apex of same ; lab, 
 labium ; mi, maxillae. 
 
120 
 
 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 to as "sternal cones," or simply "cones" (s.co). The labium (lab) and 
 maxillae (rax) are also shown in Fig. 92. 
 
 VII. 
 
 The parts of the abdomen referred to in description are as follows : 
 The dorsum (Fig. 93, do) is the rounded top of the back, of which the 
 anterior part is called the "base" (ba), and the posterior the 
 "apex" (ap). The "folium" (fol) is a leaf like figure which usually 
 occupies one-third or more of the middle part, extending longitudinally 
 from base to apex. The median line (mn) of the dorsum often has a 
 deeper shade of color than the edges of the folium. The blackish " pits," 
 or round dark spots (pt), symmetrically arranged in pairs on each side of 
 the median line of the folium, indicate points of attachment for internal 
 
 muscles. The venter 
 (vn, Fig. 94) is the part 
 lying between the epi- 
 gynum (ep) and gills (gi) 
 and the spinnerets (sp) ; 
 pits or dimples may also 
 be seen on the venter 
 sy in metrical by arranged 
 as on the dorsum. The 
 median ventral band is 
 usually bordered by a 
 
 d.CCK. 
 
 AllUOMKN AND I'AHTS. 
 
 Fib. 93. Dorsal view; pd, pedicle uniting to cephalothorax ; ba, base or Strip of lighter Color 
 
 fore part; d.co, dorsal cones or shoulder humps; fol, folium or dorsal nlorp or lpoo broken 
 pattern ; ap, apex ; sp, spinnerets ; pt, pit marking insertion of muscles; 
 
 mn, median line of dorsum. Fib. 94. Side view; vn, venter; ep, epi- When the abdomen is 
 
 gynum ; gi, breathing gills; other references as above. , . • i j , ,-, 
 
 tlic space between the dorsal and ventral apex is known as the apical 
 wall of the abdomen. On cither side or shoulder of the dorsal base some 
 species have conical prominences known as dorsal cones or tubercles (d.co). 
 These are sometimes placed at several other points, usually along the mar- 
 gin .of the dorsum. In some species these are hard and spinous. 
 
 The exterior parts of the epigynum referred to in the description are 
 
 illustrated at Figs. 95, 96. The atriolum vulvae, or vulval porch, is a 
 
 vaulted porch or hood that curves over the genital opening, in 
 
 pigy- f ront of jpkkjj ( an terior) it is located. It is usually chitinous, 
 
 num. ** ' 
 
 and covered at the base with hairs. The middle part in many 
 
 species is prolonged into a shaft or scapus atrioli, which is sometimes a 
 mere flap, and again is much lengthened. Sometimes it is smooth, some- 
 times wrinkled or rugose, often with a row of stout hairs thereon. Fre- 
 quently it is grooved or hollowed along the under surface. The tip is 
 more or less attenuated and rounded, or sometimes pointed ; in many 
 species it is widened into a bowl or spoon, usually oval, but sometimes 
 
ANATOMICAL NOMENCLATURE. 
 
 127 
 
 nearly circular. This part of the scapus I have termed the cochlear or 
 spoon (cch, Fig. 95). I believe that the scapus serves as an ovipositor, to 
 assist in the direction and arrangement of the eggs as they are extruded. 
 It has occurred to mo to a .tr 
 
 inquire whether there 
 exists any relation be- 
 tween the peculiar shape 
 of the scapus and the 
 character of the cocoon 
 laid by the female, es- 
 pecially in the position 
 and arrangement of the 
 eggs ; but I have reach- views of epigynum and parts. 
 
 pd no fPllPriliy'ltioil OI1 Il(i ' 95 ' Lower part, that is, the part next the ground when the spider is 
 ^ walking ; at, atriolum ; scp, scapus ; cell, the cochlear or spoon of the 
 
 scapus; po, portulae ; gc, genital cleft. Fie;. 96. Side 
 parm or buckler; other references as above. 
 
 to show the 
 
 this point. It is prob- 
 able that this organ al- 
 so aids to clasp and direct the palpus of the male, or at least to regulate 
 the flow of the sperm, in the act of fertilization. 
 
 In some species, as Epeira labyrinth ea, Fig. 96, there is thrown up a 
 sort of wall in front of the scapus and on the anterior margin of the genital 
 cleft, which I have termed the parmula, or simply the parm or buckler 
 (par, Fig. 96). In some species at least, as in Fig. 96, there appears a 
 groove or channel in the median part, indicating that this may also aid in 
 
 s.cp 
 
 directing the eggs during extrusion, or again in 
 guiding the inflow of the sperm. 
 
 Underneath the vulval porch are (usually) 
 two concave openings or little gates, portula} 
 spermatheca? (po), which receive the sperm from 
 
 the male palp, whence it flows from 
 Oviducts : c&c Y l portula through a duct, aditus 
 ., spermathecse (ad.sp), sometimes simple, 
 
 sometimes much convoluted, into the 
 spermatheca) (s.th). Thence another smaller 
 duct, the oviduct (ovd), admits the sperm to the 
 eggs (ov). The ovary also has an opening into 
 
 l"io. 97. View of epigynum in connection OD v ' , • , , i • 1 i 
 
 ■with ovaries (partly diagrammatic); the pOrtultU, Dy which tllC eggS are discharged 
 
 atr, atriolum ; po, portula); scp, scap- wh(m cocoon i ng _ 'fllC CpigyilUlll is Subject to 
 
 us; sp, cochlear or spoon; ad.sp, aditus , °_ r oj j 
 
 spermathecffl, sperm duct ; s.th, sper- immense variations ill form, and these varia- 
 
 mathe C1E ;ov,the eggs; ovd, oviduct, fo^ ^ ^^ constant for every species ; 
 
 hence they are good specific characters. I have not been able to find in 
 them any fixed generic value, although there is often a noticeable tend- 
 ency to a general likeness of form in any closely related group of species. 1 
 
 1 I hesitate somewhat to propose the ahovc anatomical terms, us the field is one which 
 I have not specially cultivated. 
 
128 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 VIII. 
 
 It is now generally believed by araneologists tbat the digital joint or 
 bulbus of the palp is the copulative organ of male spiders. We are 
 
 indebted to the careful observations of Menge 1 for the discovery 
 Use of £ ^j ie me thod by which the male transfers the sperma from his 
 p * e sexual aperture to his palps, and so, through the palps, to the 
 
 vulva of the female. Blackwall, however, with that keenness of 
 observation and judgment which characterized this distinguished English 
 naturalist, independently observed the process. 2 A male Agalena labyrin- 
 thica confined in a phial spun a small web, and among the lines of which 
 it was composed he perceived that a drop of milklike fluid was suspended. 
 He had not observed how it was deposited, but saw that the spider by the 
 alternate application of his palpal organs speedily imbibed the whole of 
 it. The conclusion which he derived from this circumstance was to con- 
 firm the acute suspicion of M. Duges that the palpal bulb alternately 
 performs the office of an absorbing syphon and an organ of ejection. 3 
 The fact first made known by Menge has been abundantly confirmed by 
 Ausserer 4 and Professor Bertkau, 5 and later by Mr. F. M. Campbell, and 
 in part by the author. 7 
 
 The former belief that the testes have their outlet into the palp has 
 now very few, if any, advocates. Those who have most carefully studied 
 
 the anatomy of spiders, from the earliest to the latest students, 8 
 
 oca ion j iave f oun d that no connection whatever can be traced between 
 of Testes. 
 
 the organs which prepare the spermatic fluid and the palps, and 
 
 that the testes are far from these latter organs, on the under side of the 
 
 abdomen, near its anterior extremity, in a position corresponding to the 
 
 female vulva. The little slit there, on which the efferent ducts of the 
 
 testes have their orifices, may sometimes be seen with the naked eye or a 
 
 simple magnifying lens. Under such circumstances one may well ask with 
 
 Thorell, 9 what is more natural than to suppose that the sperma, previous 
 
 to coition, is in some way or other transferred to the intromittent organs, 
 
 the palps? That this transmission always takes place in the manner 
 
 directly observed by Menge in the case of Agalena and Linyphia is indeed 
 
 1 Ueber die Lebenweise d. Arachn. Naturf. Gessellsch. in Danzig, IV., I., pages 89-41 
 (1843) ; Preuss. Spinn. f. inst. I., page 106 (1866). 
 
 2 Journal Proceedings Linn. Soc. Zool., VII., pages 157, 158. 
 
 3 Observ. sur les Aran., Ann. d. Soc. Nat. Ser. Zool., VI., pages 189, 190. 
 
 4 " Beobactungen iiber die Lebenweisse," etc., Zeittchr. Ferdinandeutns, 1867. 
 
 5 "Ueber den Generations apparat der Arachniden," Arch. Nat. Gesch., 1875, page 254. 
 
 6 " Pairing of Teg. guyonii," Linn. Soc. Jour. Zool., XVI., 163. 
 
 7 See Vol. II., page 41 and page 73. 
 
 8 Thevikanus, Ueber d. inneren Bau d. Arachn., page 77, tab. iv., Fig. 33 (1812); Menge 
 Preuss. Spinn., I., pages 32, 33 (1866). 
 
 9 Synonyms Europ. Spid., page 593. 
 
ANATOMICAL NOMENCLATURE. 
 
 129 
 
 not proved, and it is possible that the male sometimes applies the genital 
 bulbs to the sexual aperture, and thus charges them with the 
 of Sperm fertilizing fluid, a fact which Menge seems to suspect may be 
 the case with Lycosa rurestris. 1 That this transfer is so seldom 
 observed, and by so few persons, will not excite wonder on the part of one 
 who has devoted much time to the study of the habits of these reticent 
 creatures, and who knows the difficulty of obtaining a complete observation 
 of even the most common of its habits. Possibly the extrusion of the 
 sperma by the male upon the little silken receptacle from which it is 
 absorbed into the palps takes place very rapidly; or it may be done long 
 before the act of fertilization ; perhaps, as Thorell suggests, immediately 
 after the last change of the skin. 
 
 The Cymbium is that part of the modified digital joint of the male 
 
 spider's palpus upon which is placed the copulatory apparatus which it 
 
 sustains. In many species of Orbweavcrs it covers one side of 
 
 bium. the di S ital > having 
 
 the appearance of the 
 
 half of a seed husk, or shell of 
 
 Tec. sem. 
 
 grain, and is covered more or 
 
 less thickly with hairs and 
 
 bristles. (See Fig. 98, cym.) 
 
 The alveolus (alv) is the 
 
 concavity in the cymbium 
 
 within which is located the 
 
 copulatory apparatus proper. 
 
 Its form depends upon the* 
 
 structure of the cymbium, with 
 
 certain spiders occu- 
 Alveolus. . , [. ... 
 
 pying half of the sur- F 
 
 .gia.cl. 
 
 -■.hae 
 
 JtL, 
 
 or.haein. 
 
 Digital joint of palp of a male spider (after Wagner), 
 face, 111 Which Case the Cym- schematic longitudinal section of the cymbium with the copu- 
 
 bium has the form of n canoe latory a PP aratus drawn ° ut ; emt >. embolus; teg, teguium; 
 mum nab me ioim 01 a canoe. measalli meati 8anguinis , minute ducts for condU eting blood 
 
 With Others it is Smaller, as from tne hsematodocha (htem) into the receptaculum semi- 
 
 • ,i q i • f i nis, rec.sem; the arrows indicate the course of the blood; 
 
 Willi OegeStl'ia, lor example ; glacli giand,,^ cells; alv, the alveolus or hollow of the oym- 
 
 with others again larger and bium in which tne apparatus rests, 
 occupying the whole surface of the cymbium. The simpler the structure 
 of the apparatus the less is the alveolus in circumference and depth, and 
 vice versa. The more complicated is the apparatus the more space it 
 embraces in every sense. 
 
 The alveolus serves as a seat for the Hsematodocha (haem), a follicule 
 placed in the form of a spiral, and intended with some spiders to serve 
 as a seat for the copulatory apparatus itself. The alveolus has no inde- 
 pendent significance ; its form and size in its development are dependent 
 
 1 Lebensweise d. Arach., page 43. 
 
130 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 upon other parts of the apparatus. The Glandular Cells (gl.c) are situated 
 at the margin of the alveolus. The chitinous teguments above these in 
 the eymbium are pierced by a number of duets, which eventually serve 
 as conduits for the secretions of the cells. 
 
 The Ha3inatodocha is a delicate chitinous saclike organ, of which the 
 bottom is inserted into the alveolus, and the superior margin into the 
 
 inferior face of the tegulum. Thus the entire basal part (recep- 
 Haemato- ^culum sem i n i s ) ) which is situated under the tegulum, is within 
 
 the cavity of the sac. The walls of the hamiatodocha arc very 
 thin and plaited, so that if the sac be full it is able to attain large dimen- 
 sions. In its ordinary condition with most spiders it is folded in a spiral 
 and situated within the alveolus. 
 
 The bottom part, by which the sac is attached to the concavity of the 
 alveolus, has a round orifice (orificium hscmatodocha}, or.hami), which 
 unites the cavity with the lacuna of the eymbium situated beneath. Mr. 
 Wagner says that during fecundation the hscmatodocha is not filled with 
 sperm, as certain observers suppose, but at that moment is filled with 
 blood. Its role is to transmit, under pressure of its clastic walls, the blood 
 which has come to the lacuna into the cavity of the receptaculum seminis, 
 through certain fine ducts (meati sanguinis), by which the cavity of the 
 receptaculum is united with the cavity of the sac. It follows that the 
 function of the ha>matodocha is that by its means the blood takes part in 
 fecundation by penetrating, although in small quantity, along with the 
 sperm into the genital cavity of the female. 
 
 Upon the superior part of the copulatory apparatus, and in part within 
 the cavity of the ha>matodocha under the tegulum, is situated a tube with 
 
 thick, chitinous walls, which in different species of spiders differs 
 Recepta- m s ] )a p e) length, and position. This is the receptaculum seminis 
 cu urn (rcc.scm). The extremity of that part situated under the tegulum, 
 
 the basal part of the tube, is always closed. The opposite end ter- 
 minates in an orifice at the summit of the embolus (emb). At the moment 
 of fecundation the receptaculum is filled with sperm. Its role is as follows : 
 Shortly after the moult it is filled with sperm, which the male has forced 
 from his genital orifice upon a woven thread or tissue previously prepared. 
 He plunges his palp into his drop of sperm, which, by the law of capil- 
 larity, mounts into the receptaculum through the orifice (or) of the embolus, 
 the only organ of the copulatory apparatus that receives and conserves the 
 sperm. The sperm can only be discharged by the orifice of the embolus 
 through which it entered. The slender ducts (meati sanguinis), which 
 serve to unite the receptaculum with the cavity of the haunatodocha, are 
 of such extreme fineness that they cannot serve as a conduit for the sperm 
 into the ha)matodocha, and it is only the blood plasm which, under the 
 pressure of the walls of the haimatodocha, can be made to penetrate into 
 the cavity of the receptaculum. Consequently, the role of the latter is 
 
ANATOltflCAL NOMENCLATURE. 131 
 
 that of a passive organ, receiving the sperm and transmitting it into the 
 genital cleft of the female under the pressure of the hlood which enters 
 into the hsemalodocha through the meati sanguinis. 
 
 The receptaculum, in the region of the embolus, is throughout its whole 
 length fine, smooth, and without pores. Further toward its closed extremity 
 is a mass of minute ducts which pierce the walls, and which 
 Ducts Wagner has named meati sanguinis, blood ducts. All spiders 
 are provided with these ducts, and their role is to serve as con- 
 duits to the blood from the haimatodocha into the receptaculum. 
 
 The Tegulum is a quite thick plate of chitine serving to cover in from 
 above and to protect the receptaculum. Many spiders, as the Attids, Thom- 
 isids, and others, have here no chitinous conformation except the tegulum ; 
 but spiders which have a more complicated organism of this apparatus 
 are provided with many other auxiliary organs, in the form of lamince, 
 dentations, and excrescences of the most unique and varied forms. The 
 embolus is an organ of a chitinous nature, for the most part subiliform or 
 having the form of a switch. At its extremity there is a small orifice 
 (Pig. 98, or), by which the sperm enters and issues. The articulation of 
 the embolus with the tegulum may be mobile or immobile. 
 
 The action of the above parts is as follows: The male applies to the 
 genital cleft of the female the exterior face of his palp, and by numerous 
 Th R 1 con ^ractions of the abdomen, in which the subcutaneous muscles 
 'take part, forces the blood through the orifice into the cavity 
 of the hsematodocha, which it expands, pushes out the copulatory appa- 
 ratus, and having by way of the blood ducts penetrated into the cavity 
 of the receptaculum seminis, impels the sperm through the embolus into 
 the genital cleft of the female. When the blood begins to abate, returning 
 into the body of the male it fills anew the sac as full as at first, an opera- 
 tion which is repeated until fecundation is terminated ; then the palp is 
 withdrawn from the genital cleft, the hamiatodocha contracts, and the 
 tegulum resumes its position. 1 
 
 1 La Mue des Araign<5cs, M. Waldemar Wagner, Ann. Sc. Nat. Zool., 1888,307-371. 
 
Orbitel- 
 
 PART II. 
 
 DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 
 
 Among Orbitelarite I include, with Thorell, all spiders that spin a 
 so called geometrical web. This may be arranged in a more or less circu- 
 lar plane, perpendicular or horizontal to the horizon, as the case 
 may be, which is the characteristic web of Epeira and many 
 anae e- ^ er g enera# Or it may be arranged in a circular plane, which 
 lacks one segment of greater or less size, usually in the upper 
 part of the snare, as in the case of Zilla and some species of Epeira. Or 
 again, it may consist simply of a single sector of a circle, as in the case 
 of Hyptiotes, the well known Triangle spider. I include among the fami- 
 lies of Orbitelarise, Uloborus, which makes a circular snare, suspended 
 horizontally, but without the usual Epeiroid armature of viscid beads upon 
 the spiral lines. . 
 
 It does not seem that any spider which spins a snare of the general 
 character here described can be properly placed in any suborder other 
 than Orbitelaria). Yet it may well be that there are Orbitelaria3, 
 Habits even Epeiroids in the strictest sense, which spin either no web 
 . fl ,. at all, or an irregular one; just as (to quote Thorell's compar- 
 ison) there are many Tubitelariae that do not fabricate webs of 
 the form characteristic of that group. 1 Pachygnatha, for example, I 
 include with the Orbitelarire, as is now done by the best araneologists ; 
 but, so far as is known, it makes no web, and appears to live underneath 
 stones and capture its prey after the fashion of the wandering spiders. 
 Of course, such a conclusion as this cannot be wondered at; for no one 
 will claim that a natural classification of animals can be based upon hab- 
 its alone, although in the case of spiders it certainly is true that there is 
 a quite constant relation between the natural habits and the natural order 
 of systematic life. 
 
 Some of the older arachnologists still cling to the term Araneidea to 
 
 denominate the order of true spiders ; but for the most part 
 
 the Order ^ e wor( ^ Aranese is now thus used. This term was first proposed 
 
 by Sundevall, in his Conspectus Arachnidum, in 1833. It was 
 
 '-Thorell, Syn. Europ. Spid., page 
 (132) 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 133 
 
 adopted by Thorell, in his splendid paper on European Spiders, contin- 
 ued in his " Synonyms," and has been retained by him ever since adopted. 
 Count Keyserling used it in his latest works, as does the French araneol- 
 ogist, Eugene Simon (1892), in the first volume of his revised Natural 
 History of Spiders, which promises to be a monumental work. In Amer- 
 ica Dr. George Marx, the editor of Keyserling's Epei'ridse, and Professor 
 and Mrs. Peck ham agree with myself in the use of the word. On the 
 contrary, Mr. Cambridge, in his beautiful work on the spiders, in Biologia 
 Centrali-Americana, retains the earlier term, Aranei'dea. This concensus of 
 araneologists seems to be justified. Aranea was the original generic name 
 of all spiders, but there is now no genus of true spiders thus called, and 
 therefore there can be no objection on that account to call the order 
 Aranese, a word which seems to be eminently proper, since it signifies 
 spiders, just as, for example, Aves signifies birds, and Serpentes signifies 
 snakes. 
 
 As to the use of the terms Aranei'des and Aranei'dea, Thorell urges two 
 objections : first, that it is altogether illogical, since the addition of the 
 terminal syllable indicates an enlargement of the conception that 
 Approved h es in the word to which such termination is appended. For 
 instance, by Carabidae we mean all Carabi, and besides a num- 
 ber of animals more or less closely allied to them. By Aranei'dea, there- 
 fore, properly speaking, we would mean spiders and animals closely related 
 to them. Moreover, the form is regarded by Thorell as liable to the 
 objection that it is a hybrid, being a compound of a Greek and a Latin 
 word, and should on that account, if for no other reason, be rejected, 1 an 
 opinion in which the purists, at least, will concur. 
 
 Before passing to the description of species it will be well to state the 
 author's reasons for certain changes therein made in the Hentzian nomen- 
 clature of certain well known species. In the year 1887, while 
 Cn * n g' es visiting the Zoological Library of the Kensington (London) 
 clatur Museum of Natural History, my attention was called to a series 
 of manuscript drawings of American spiders. These proved to 
 be the original notes and figures of John Abbot, beautifully drawn and 
 colored from nature, upon which Baron Walckenaer had based the descrip- 
 tions in his Natural History of Apterous Insects. This find seemed to me 
 most important. It was my first knowledge that the drawings were extant, 
 and I know of no printed statement of what had become of them after 
 Walckenaer's death. No English or American araneologist had made any 
 use of them, and if known at all their value was not appreciated. How 
 they came into the possession of the Kensington Museum I could not learn, 
 but no doubt they were bought by the authorities soon after Walckenaer's 
 death. 
 
 1 Syn. Europ. Spid., page 507, 
 
134 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNING WORK. 
 
 I spent a portion of one day in study of the figured Orbweavers alone, 
 and took copious notes of those species which were entirely familiar to me. 
 After my return to Philadelphia I made careful studies of Walckcnacr's 
 published descriptions, comparing the same with my notes, and thereupon 
 published a paper in the Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences 
 of Philadelphia (1888). Therein was considered the necessity for revising 
 the nomenclature of various Hentzian species of Orbweavers, of which a 
 brief tabulated list was given. 
 
 The paper caused an. animated discussion in the Academy upon the 
 limits within which the law of priority should obtain. The Hentzian 
 
 names had so long prevailed, and were so widely inwoven with 
 p5- w ° our aranead literature, that it was held by a few that they ought 
 
 to be retained, since a change would cause embarrassment to nat- 
 uralists, confusion in popular literature, and thus detriment to science. 
 On the contrary, the majority present, among whom were the eminent Presi- 
 dent of the Academy, the late Professor Joseph Leidy, and Professor Dull of 
 Washington, held that the earlier names should in all cases be adopted, 
 no matter how much inconvenience might be entailed thereby. 
 
 This position has since received general approval. Professor T. Thorell, 
 who is justly regarded as the most eminent of living" araneologists, and 
 
 whose authority on such a point is of special value, thus wrote : 1 
 Approval : « rpj lc discovery of Abbot's drawings of American spiders is 
 _, „ , indeed a fact of the greatest interest, not only to Americans, but 
 Dr Marx. ^° au arachnologists, and I congratulate you on having had the 
 
 luck to make this discovery. Of course, I have read with great 
 attention what you have said on the subject. As to me, I do not entertain 
 the least doubt that you and Professors Leidy, Lewis, and Dall are right, and 
 that the earlier names should in all cases be adopted. The law of priority 
 must be respected, and is the only one that prevents arbitrariness, and 
 that gives stability to nomenclature. I think, then, that in all such cases, in 
 which Walckcnacr's species can, with tolerable certainty, be recognized, 
 his names should be preferred to those more lately published, even if such 
 names are more commonly used, or the species better described or figured 
 under the newer names." To the approval of this most distinguished 
 authority may be added that of Dr. George Marx, who, in his Catalogue 
 of Described Aranea;, fully accepts the conclusions, and adopts the revised 
 nomenclature suggested by me. 
 
 To this general concensus, however, there was one notable exception. Mr. 
 
 J. H. Emerton 2 published a criticism upon my paper, in which 
 Excepts ' ie re J ec ' ;e d the conclusions, and depreciated the value thereof, 
 
 as well as of the Abbot manuscripts, which he further claimed 
 to have seen in 1875, although he had never in any way made known 
 
 1 Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., 1888, page 430. 
 
 2 Pscyche, Vol. V., No. 149-150, Sept.-Oct., 1888 : Cambridge, Mass. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENEKA AND SPECIES. 135 
 
 liis information, nor anywhere alluded thereto in his published descriptions 
 of spiders. I replied to this criticism, 1 vindicating the value of the Abbot 
 drawings, and strengthening the ground upon which my judgment rested. 
 Nevertheless, in view of the above challenge, I resolved to make more 
 thorough study of the manuscripts before publishing the final volume of 
 tli is work, and meanwhile allowed, for the most part, the Hentzian names 
 to stand in Vols. I., II., which are chiefly concerned with the habits of 
 spiders. 
 
 Accordingly, in the summer of 1892 I visited London, and gave a week 
 to the study of Abbot's drawings, confining my attention to the Orbweavers. 
 
 I verified my former notes, carefully compared Abbot's figures 
 Second an j \ )r i c f memoranda with Walckenaer's published descriptions, 
 T , and made colored copies from tracings of most of the Orbitelariae. 2 
 
 This work done, I submitted the whole to Mr. R. I. Pococke of 
 the Kensington Museum, who kindly went over the same, comparing Abbot's 
 figures with Hentz's, and with Walckenaer's descriptions. In every instance 
 he was able independently to reach a conclusion as to identity that almost 
 exactly tallied with my own. These studies confirmed all that I had pre- 
 viously published, and added several species to the list of Hentzian nanus 
 that must yield priority to Walckenaer. Accordingly, in the following 
 
 pagee I have felt compelled to revert to the earlier nomenclature. 
 Result This is done with sincere regret, as the well known names of 
 fl , , Ilentz are embodied in all my previous publications, and the 
 
 use of the index alone can disentangle the resulting confusion. 
 Nevertheless, the rectification of nomenclature must sometime inevitably 
 be made, and postponement could only add to the confusion. It seemed 
 better, therefore, to face the difficulty at once with an honest effort to 
 bring in final order by the just sovereignty of the law of priority. 
 
 1 now regret that I permitted confidence in my first judgment of the 
 value of the Abbot drawings to be so far shaken as to lead me to retain 
 the Hentzian synonyms in the first two volumes of this work, instead of 
 at once eliminating them. For this I can only excuse myself by the fact 
 that the books were going through press while the matter was still under 
 discussion, and before my own conclusions had been assured by the judg- 
 ment of leading arancologists. I have done the best, under the circum- 
 stances, to lighten the inconvenience which the reader may thus have 
 been caused, by full references in the synonoma, and liberal references 
 and cross-references in the Index. 
 
 Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., 1888, page 428: "The Value of Abbot's Manuscript 
 Drawings of American Spiders." 
 
 2 My thanks are especially due to Mr. William Caruthers, Keeper of Botany, for kind 
 services during these studies, lie gave me the use of his office, procured for me all required 
 books and material, assisted me with his extended knowledge and experience as a 
 biologist, and added thereto the charm of a hospitable host. 
 
136 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Genus EPEIRA Walckenaer. 
 
 The original genus Epeira of Walckenaer has been divided and subdivided at various 
 limes, yet still contains by far the greatest number of orbweaving species, not only in the 
 United States, but other parts of the world. That it must further be subdivided is apparent 
 to any one who has given much attention to the species which are grouped thereunder; 
 but equally plain that it will be difficult to distinguish sharply the characteristics upon 
 which good generic differences may be based. The following are the principal character- 
 istics herein held to mark the typical Epeira. 1 
 
 The cephalothorax is moderately high and oval, more or less shortened or cordate 
 the corselet for the most part being well rounded. It is moderately high, the fosse placed 
 near the centre of the summit, from whence the corselet slopes more or less sharply to the 
 base, which is truncated and often indented. The corselet grooves are sufficiently distinct; 
 the cephalic suture well marked. The margin of the corselet is often a narrow belt free 
 from pubescence more or less shelving to the articulation with the legs. The head is lowly 
 arched, somewhat depressed at the face, which is wide, though narrower than the corselet, 
 and somewhat quadrate. The sternum is shield shape or cordate, somewhat longer than 
 wide ; the labium longer than wide, strong, half as high as the maxillae, which are as 
 wide, or nearly as wide, as long. 
 
 The eyes arc placed in three groups, of which the side eyes are upon tubercles or 
 elevated bases, the four middle eyes upon a rounded eminence, the ocular quad being in the 
 form of a quadrilateral whose greatest width nearly equals the length. The front side of 
 the quad is usually a little wider than the rear. The space between the sidefront and 
 midfront eyes is equal to 1.5 times the area of the latter, or from 2 to 2.5 the intervening 
 space thereof. The space between the siderear and the midrear eyes is usually greater than 
 the above. The clypeus is low, rarely exceeding 2 to 2.5 times the diameter of the midfront 
 eyes. The eye rows are not widely separated at their greatest point of divergence and 
 closely approximate at the sides; the front row is slightly recurved, the rear row slightly 
 procurved. 
 
 The legs are in order of length 1, 2, 4, 3; stout in all the joints; the tarsus and meta- 
 tarsus gradually diminishing in size, and not noticeably thinner than the other joints. 
 They are clothed heavily with hairs and bristles, and abundantly with strong spines. The 
 palps in the female are armed as the legs; the digital joint with a strong claw; longer 
 than the radial joint; the cubital joint being about half the length of the latter, and the 
 humeral joint approximating the length of the digital, but usually longer. The abdomen 
 is usually subglobose or oval, rounded at the base and diminished at the apex, or is a 
 triangular ovate. The spinnerets are distal and the base overhangs the cephalothorax 
 sometimes for half its length. The skin is soft and pubescent. The epigynum has generally 
 a prolonged scapus. 
 
 The male in general form and markings resembles the female. Tibia-II is frequently 
 widened at the tip, and in some species provided with strong denticulate clasping spines. 
 The coxa? are often marked by spurs at the articulation with the trochanter, or upon the 
 base. He is commonly much smaller than the female, but sometimes nearly equals her 
 in size. 
 
 It will probably be observed in the following descriptions that the above specifications 
 of the typical Epeira are not strictly adhered to, and in some points indeed are widely 
 divergent therefrom. But a strong indisposition to multiply new genera, together with the 
 confusingly interblended characteristics above referred to, have prompted to, if not justified 
 such a course. No doubt future students, who may have a greater amount of material in 
 hand, will be able not only to indicate necessary divisions, but to unite some of the genera 
 already created from this overflowing group. 
 
 1 For the technical terms used in description of species see Chapter VI., page 124 sq. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 137 
 
 No. 1. Epeira sclopetaria (Clerck). Plate I., Figs. 9, 9a; PI. II., Figs. 10, 11. 
 
 1757. Arancus sclopetarius, Clerck . . Aranei Svecici (Svcnska Spindlar), p. 43, pi. 2, 
 
 tab. 3, Fig. 1. 
 1757. Araneus sericalus, 1 Clerck . . . Aran. Svec, p. 40, pi. 2, tab. 1. 
 1789. Aranea undata, Olivier Encycl. Method., iv., i>. 200. 
 
 1833. Epeira sericata, Kocn, C Herr.-Selueff. Deutschl. Ins., pp. 120, 1. 
 
 1834. Epeira virgata, Haiin Die Araeh., ii., p. 26, tab. 46, Fig. 113. 
 
 v 1837. Epeira frondosa, Walckenabr . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 66 ; Abbot, G. S., 2 No. 326. 
 
 1847. Epeira vulgaris, Hentz J. B. S., s v., pi. 30, p. 469; Id., Sp. U. S., p. IDS, 
 
 pi. 12, Fig. 6. 
 
 1850. Epeira sericata, Koch Die Aracbn., xi., p. 110, pi. 385, Figs. 914, 915. 
 
 1851. Epeira sclopetaria, Westring . . Fdrteckning, etc., p. 34. 
 1855. Epeira sclopetaria, Thohell . . . Eecensio Critica, p. 22. 
 1861. Epeira sclopetaria, Westring . ; Aranese Svecirae, p. 33. 
 
 1864. Epeira sericata, Blackwai.l . . . Sp. G. B. & I., 4 p. 328, pi. 23, Fig. 238. 
 
 1864. Epeira sericea, Simon Hist. Nat. d'Araign., p. 492. 
 
 1866. Epeira sclopetaria, Menge .... Preuss. Spinn., p. 57, pi. 7, tab. 7. 
 
 1871. Epeira sclopetaria, Blackwai.l . . Spiders from Montreal, Ann. & Mag. Nat. Hist., 
 
 viii., p. 429. 
 
 1884. Epeira sclopetaria, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., 6 p. 303, pi. 33, p. 4 ; pi. 35, p. 10. 
 
 1889. Epeira sclopetaria, McCook . . . American Spiders, Vols, i., ii. 
 
 1889. Epeira sclopetaria, Marx .... Catalogue, 6 in Inc. 
 
 Female: Total length, 12.5 mm.; cephalothorax, 5 mm. long by 5 nun. wide ; abdomen, 
 8 mm. long by 6.5 mm. wide. The general color is grayish brown, which in some speci- 
 mens is deepened into iron gray upon the abdomen, ceplTalothorax, and terminal joints of 
 legs. The cephalothorax and abdomen are usually uniform in color. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A rounded oval, truncated at the base ; the median fosse is a deep 
 lateral pit placed back of the middle point, which is the highest ; the sides of the corselet 
 are rather steeply sloped, the head depressed, the caput inclined from its insertion to the 
 eye space ; color glossy black brown, covered sparsely along the sides with gray hairs, which 
 form a thicker band at the margin, and are spread out more thickly along the sides of the 
 caput forming heavy eyebrows, and covering the clypeus. Sternum shield shaped, longer 
 than wide, but of nearly equal width to the third coxa' ; glossy black, covered particularly 
 at the sides with gray hair ; labium wider than long, the tip triangular ; the maxillae as 
 wide as, or wider than long, inclined towards each other, rounded on the sides, and, like the 
 labium, dark glossy brown, light yellow at tips. 
 
 Eyes : The ocular quad upon a rounded prominence most decided in front, which is 
 decidedly wider than the rear, and about as wide as the sides. MF are separated by about 
 two diameters, and are larger than MR, which are separated by more than one diameter. 
 Side eyes upon tubercles, separated by about the radius of SR, which is slightly smaller 
 than SF, and situated almost upon a line with it upon the side face, thus, as in the case of 
 
 1 Strictly adhered to, the law of priority would give this name to the species, as it appears first in 
 order of paging in Clerck's book. This seems to have led Koch and Blackwall, as below, to adopt the 
 name Epeira sericata, the latter, however, subsequently abandoning that for the more generally accepted 
 one. As the change would not affect the credit due to the first author, and would cause much confusion, 
 the better known title is here retained. 
 
 3 Georgia spiders, manuscript drawings. 
 
 3 These abbreviations will be used throughout for the paper of Hentz in the Journal of the Boston 
 Society Natural History (J. B. S), and the collection of same by the late Mr. Edward Burgess, entitled 
 Spiders of the United States (Sp. U. S.). 
 
 4 Spiders of Great Britain and Ireland, so throughout. 
 
 •New England Spiders of the Family Epeiridae, TTans. Conn. Academy, Vol. VI., 1881. Abbreviated 
 throughout: N. E. Ep. 
 
 By this single word I refer throughout to Dr. George Marx's " Catalogue of the Described Arauooo 
 of Temperate North America," Proceed. U. S. Nat. Museum, Vol. XII., 1889. 
 
138 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 E. strix, bringing it into the front row. MF are separated from SF by about 1.3 their 
 area, and from the margin of the clypeus by about two diameters. Front row is recurved, 
 the rear row, which is much the longer, procurved. 
 
 Legs: Strong and stout; covered with gray hairs, rather sparsely with bristles, and 
 with numerous yellow or blackish spines. The femora are yellow, or orange yellow, with 
 broad dark brown or blackish terminal bands, which also encompass the patella. The tibia 
 and metatarsus have dark brown annuli at the ends, and a broad one of similar color in 
 the middle. Feet black, with a yellow band at the articulation with the metatarsus ; palps 
 heavily armed with gray bristles and long yellow spines, are colored as the legs, but lighter. 
 Mandibles conical, arched at the base, where they slightly project beyond the clypeus; dark 
 glossy brown or blackish brown in color; not so much contracted at the tips, nor so 
 greatly arched at the base as E. strix. 
 
 Abdomen: A long oval, narrowing at the apex to the spinnerets, which are distal. 
 The dorsal folium (Plate II., Fig. 10) is sharply outlined by a narrow undulating border of 
 gray hairs, broadest at the base, and gradually diminishing in width to the spinnerets. A 
 lance head point projects forward along the front from the basal part of this marginal line. 
 The line is interrupted about one-third the distance from the base, giving it in many exam- 
 ples the appearance of two separate figures, the apical portion thereof being a triangle with 
 scalloped edges, and a lance headed figure projecting from the middle. The general colors 
 of the dorsum are blackish brown, the sides are mottled with gray waving longitudinal 
 lines formed, like the dorsal figure, of long gray hairs. The venter is a wide trapezoidal 
 figure, blackish brown in color, with yellowish gray lunettes on cither side. The spinnerets 
 are surrounded with black, and are themselves blackish or dark brown in color. The 
 epigynum (Plate I., Fig. 9) has a narrow scapus but little widened at the base, and nar- 
 rowing down to the portula; on either side, which are prominent and present at times 
 the appearance of the figure, but at others more compacted, and rather resembling the 
 portula} of Epeira patagiata. (Fig. 11a.) 
 
 Male: Length, 7 mm.; in markings and general color closely resembles the female. 
 The cephalothorax is more rounded and of a uniform bright brown color, apparently not 
 so heavily haired, pubescent upon the top of the corselet, but with a marked ring of 
 gray hairs encompassing the margin, and also along the edges of the caput to the eye 
 space. The median fosse is a longitudinal slit. The sternum is rather more cordate in 
 shape ; the legs much longer and relatively thinner than in the female. The second leg is 
 not specialized in any way, and there appears to be no special clasping spines or armatures at 
 any point ; the femora, especially of the first two pairs, are mottled beneath with dark brown 
 spots, which sometimes may also be observed in the female. The character of the palp is 
 shown at Plate I., 9a. It is easily distinguished from the male of E. strix, not only by the 
 general appearance and character of the palpal bulb, but more easily at once by the absence 
 of the curved metatarsus and the series of strong, black clasping spines upon the inside 
 of the second tibia which characterize Strix. The first leg of Strix, also, is more heavily 
 armed at the thickened tibia with numerous black spines. 
 
 Distkihution : Epeira sclopetaria is a common spider in many sections of the country. 
 It is abundant along the seashore of New England and New Jersey. It is also found 
 around the outhouses, stables, etc., in the neighborhood of Philadelphia. Ilentz described 
 it from South Carolina. Specimens arc common in collections from the West, and it is. 
 probably distributed over the entire United States. It is also a European species of general 
 distribution from Sweden southward, and probably shares with E. patagiata a world wide 
 distribution through the. northern temperate zone. 
 
 No. 2. Epeira patagiata (Ci-kkck). Plate I., Fig. 11; PI. III., Figs. 8, 9. 
 
 1757. Araneus patagiaiue, Ci.kuck . . . Aranei Svecici, p. 38, pi. 1, tab. 10. 
 
 1834. Epeira dumrtorum, Haiin .... Die Arachn., ii., p. 31, tab. 48, Fig. 117. 
 
 1837. Epeira dumelorum, Kocu .... Uebereicht des Arachniden-Systems, heft 1., p. 2. 
 
.DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 
 
 139 
 
 1845. Epeira patagiata, Kooh . . . 
 
 1861. J'J/jrini patagiata, Westrino . 
 
 1804. Epeira patagiata, Blaokwall 
 
 18G5. Epeira formom, Keyskhi.i.nc . 
 
 1806. Epeira patagiata, Menqb .'. 
 
 1867. Epeira patagiata, Oiilert . . 
 
 1870. Epeira patagiata, Tiiorell . . 
 
 1881. Epeira hilaris, Cambhidcie . . 
 
 1884. Epeira patagiata, Emhhton . 
 
 1889. Epeira patagiata, McCook . . 
 
 1889. Epeira patagiata, Mahx . . . 
 
 . Die Arachnid, xi., p. 115, tab. 380, figs. 910, 919. 
 
 . Araneu; Svecieae, p. 36. 
 
 . 8p. (i. B. & I., p. 329, pi. 24, Fig. 229. 
 
 . Beitrg. z. lc. d. Orbitel. Verb, d. Z. b. Ges. Wien, 
 
 p. 828, pi. 19, Figa. 17, 18. 
 . Preusa. Spinn., i., p. 60, pi. 8, tab. 9. 
 . Aran, d. Prov. Preuss., p. 24. 
 . Synon. Europ. Spid., p. 10. 
 . Spid. from Newfoundland, Proc. Roy. Phys. Soc. 
 
 Edinhg., p. 112. 
 . N. E. Ep., p. 305, pi. 33, Fig. 8. 
 . Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork. 
 . Catalogue, in loc. 
 
 Female: This species closely resembles E. sclopetaria and E. strix. The specimens differ 
 much in their dorsal markings, as well as in their general colorings, as illustrated in Plate 
 III., Figs. 8a-8f. Sometimes the specimens are quite light, at other times dark brown or 
 black, and among northern individuals yellow bands are mingled with the dark colore. The 
 specimens collected in the North appear to be colored more brilliantly than those found in 
 the South. Total length of adults, from 13 to 8 mm. 
 
 Cephalothorax : 5 mm. long, by 4 mm. wide, 2 mm. at the face ; a rounded oval, not 
 high, flattened at the summit; the fosse a deep semicircular pit; skin glossy, thickly covered 
 with grayish white hairs upon the summit and the entire surface of the caput, and a line 
 of similar hairs around the margin of the corselet. The head is somewhat depressed, the 
 face with heavy gray eyebrows. The sternum shield shaped, longer than wide; dark or 
 dark brown, covered with grayish yellow hair. The labium is semicircular; dark brown at 
 the base and yellow at the tips, as are also the maxilla;. 
 
 Legs: Order, 1, 2, 4, 3; femora, orange yellow to brown at the base, blackish at the tip; 
 the patella and tibia similarly colored, the latter with a darker ring at the tip and a median 
 annulus. The metatarsus and tarsus are yellow, the former with dark annul] at the tip and 
 midway. The feet are blackish brown ; strongly armored with yellowish gray hairs and 
 bristles and dark spines, which are intermingled with shorter yellow ones, dark at the base. 
 The palps are armed as the feet. The maxillae are parallel, conical, glossy, blackish brown, 
 and hairy. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad upon an eminence, the rear eyes set at the base thereof; length 
 and width about equal; wider in front than behind; MP separated by about two diameters, 
 MR by about one; middle eyes not greatly differing in size. Side eyes not contingent; set 
 upon tubercles ; SF the larger, and separated from MF by about 1.3 the area of the latter. 
 Front row recurved; rear row, which is the longer, procurved. The clypeus removed from 
 MF by 1.5 the diameter of the latter. 
 
 Abdomen : A long oval ; 8.5 mm. long, mm. wide, across the base ; narrowing towards 
 the spinnerets; not greatly arched; narrowing to the apex, which is about as thick as the 
 base. The dorsal folium resembles that of Sclopetaria and Strix, but lacks the strong mar- 
 ginal lines of long hairs on the former. The color is dark brown, with a yellow herring 
 bone pattern in the centre. A lance head figure of brown, with yellow margin, divides the 
 base, passing along the front. The margins of the folium are deeply scalloped ; on either 
 side a broad undulating band of yellow, followed along the sides by a band of dark brown; 
 the venter a dark brown trapezoidal band, surrounded by yellow lunettes resembling Strix 
 and Sclopetaria. The epigynum (Plate 1., Fig. 11a) has a short spoon shaped scapus, which 
 in mature specimens separates it from Strix and Sclopetaria. 
 
 Male : Total length, 9 mm. ; abdomen, mm. long by 4 mm. wide ; cephalothorax, 5 mm. 
 long by 4 mm. wide. Tn appearance (Plate III., Fig. 9) it does not widely differ from the 
 female. The cephalothorax is brown shading off into yellow, pubescent, with a narrow, 
 hairy ring around the margin of the corselet; the caput covered with hairs longer and 
 more numerous on the edges, forming a decided eyebrow. The legs are yellowish brown, 
 
140 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 annulated, strongly armed with hairs, bristles, and spines. Tibia-II is not specially thick- 
 ened or provided with the clasping spines, but is well armored with long black spines. The 
 palpal digit is shown at Plate I., Fig. lib. It may be readily distinguished from those of E. 
 cornuta-strix and E, sclopetaria by the absence of the long bifid crablike claw near the base. 
 Distribution: Epeira patagiata is one of the earliest known species, having been 
 described in the last century by Clerck, the Swedish pioneer in Arachnology. It is widely 
 extended over Europe, and is one of the Syrian spiders collected in the Holy Land by Mr. 
 Cambridge. Its distribution in our own country is quite general. I have collected it 
 throughout the Eastern United States as far to the northeast as Massachusetts, and in the 
 northwest at Portland, Oregon. The collection of Dr. Marx notes it as far south as Vir- 
 ginia, and to the northeast at Fort Simmo, Labrador. I have not found it abundant around 
 Philadelphia. Along the northern boundary of the United States it has been collected on 
 I^ake Superior, in Michigan, in Montana, at Fort Yukon and Sitka in Alaska, and Fort Kava- 
 nah, in the Aleutian Islands. I have numerous specimens from Utah, collected by Professor 
 Orson Howard, and numbers from California by Mr. Curtis. It is probable, therefore, that 
 the spider has made the entire circuit of the world, and may be found in almost every 
 country of the northern hemisphere. In this respect it is certainly entitled to a remarka- 
 ble position among our spider fauna, but perhaps other species might share this distinc- 
 tion of cosmopolitan distribution had they been collected as diligently as Patagiata. 
 
 No. 3. Epeira cornuta (Clerck). Plate I., Figs. 8, 9, 10, 11. 
 
 1757. Araneus comutus, Clerck . . . . Sv. Spindl., p. 39, pi. 1, tab. 2. 
 
 1805. Epeira apoclisa, Walckenaer . . Tab. d. Araign., p. 16 (in part). 
 
 1835. Epeira arundinacea, Koch . . . . Herr.-Schaeff., Deutchl. Ins., 131, 18-20. 
 
 1837. Epeira apoclisa, H ahn Die Arach., ii., p. 30, pi. 48, Fig. 116. 
 
 1845. Epeira arundinacea, Kocu .... Id., xi., p. 109, pi. 385, Fig. 913. 
 
 1845. Epeira . foliata, Koch Die Arach., xi., p. 119, Figs. 920, 921. 
 
 1851. Epeira cornuta-, Westring .... Enum. Aran., p. 34, p. 21. 
 
 1855. Epeira cornuta, Tiiorell .... Recensio Critica, p. 21. 
 
 18G4. Epeira foliata, Keyserling . . . Beschr. n. Orbitel. Sitz. d. Dresden, p. 92, pi. 7, 
 
 Figs. 10, 11. 
 
 1866. Epeira cornuta, Menge Preuss. Spinn., i., p. 58, pi. 8, tab. 8. 
 
 1870. Epeira cornuta, Thorell .... Syn. Europ. Spid., p. 15. 
 
 Variety: Epeira cornuta-strix Hentz. 
 1 1837. Epeira apoclisa-amcricana,\VAhCK., Ins. Apt., ii., p. 61. 
 
 1837. Epeira foliosa, Walckenaek . . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 68; Abbot's Ga. Sp. Mss., No. 39.1/ 
 
 1846. Epeira affinis, Blackwall . . . . Spid. from Canada, Ann. & Mag. Nat. Hist., 
 
 xviii., 77. 
 
 1847. Epeira strix, Hentz J. B. S., v., p. 473; Sp. U. S., 112, xiii., 5. 
 
 1869. Epeira apoclim, Giehei Spinn. a Illinois. Zeitschr. f. Ges. Naturwiss, 
 
 xxxiii., p. 249. 
 
 1884. Epeira stria:, Emerton N. Engl. Ep., 305 ; xxxiii., 5 ; xxxv., 12. 
 
 1889. Epeira strix, McCook Am. Spid. and their Spinningwork. 
 
 1889. Epeira cornuta, Marx Catalogue, p. 544. 
 
 Female: Total length, 12 mm.; cephalothorax, 6 mm. long, 5 mm. wide; abdomen, 7 
 mm. long by 5.5 mm. wide. I have classified Hentz's Eperia strix as a variety of E. cornuta, 
 after comparing the former with specimens of the latter. Of these, one was furnished by 
 Professor Waldemar Wagner, from Moscow, Russia, and the other by Mr. Thomas Work- 
 man, from Ireland. Both of these examples differ from Strix in that the more roundly 
 arched abdomen is diminished backward more decidedly than Strix. Strix is slightly flat- 
 tened upon the dorsum of the abdomen, and the sides are carried from the base to the 
 apex with very little diminution in width, making an almost even oval in outline. The 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 141 
 
 genital organs of the two species are alike. I have no male of E. cornuta to compare with 
 that of E. strix. The following description is of the American specimen. 
 
 Cbphalothobax : Oval, quadrate in front, rounded at the sides; truncate hehind, where 
 it is slightly notched ; the slope is not steep to the median fosse, which is tolerably deep ; 
 caput arched, slightly elevated at the middle above the corselet. Color brown or yellowish 
 brown, glossy, a thick row of gray hairs along the margin, which are more lightly dis- 
 tributed upon the sides and the deep cephalic suture, and more heavily upon the caput 
 back of the eyes, and again upon the face in front. Sternum shield shaped, longer than 
 wide, the width not greatly unequal throughout; dark glossy brown, with a lighter median 
 band and hairy ; sternal cones wanting. The lip as wide as long, subtriangular. The max- 
 illa; obtusely triangular at the tips, as wide as long, and, like the lip, dark glossy brown, 
 lighter at the tips. 
 
 Eyes: The ocular quad on a rounded prominence, much more decided in front; MF, 
 indeed, may be said to be placed upon large separate tubercles. The quadrilateral wider in 
 front than behind, and the length about equal to the greatest width ; MF are separated by 
 about 1.5 to 2 diameters, and are larger than MR, which are set close together, not being 
 separated by more than a radius. The side eyes are upon low tubercles, are separated by 
 about a radius of SR, which is somewhat smaller than SF, and situated behind it low upon 
 the sides, thus bringing it almost into the front row of eyes. MF are separated from SF 
 by about 1.3 their area, or 2.5 times their intervening distance. The front row is but little 
 recurved, the rear row, which is much the longer, is procurved. The space between SR 
 and MR is at least three times the area of the latter; height of clypeus about twice 
 diameter MF. 
 
 Legs : Stout, rather short for the size of the species, leg-I measuring 16 mm. Order, 
 1, 2, 4, 3. They are heavily clothed with yellowish gray hairs, and with numerous blackish 
 or blackish brown spines. Color yellow, with dark brown annuli at the ends of the joints ; 
 no median annuli ; palps similarly colored and heavily armed at the tips. Mandibles coni- 
 cal, much arched at the base, where they slightly project beyond the plane of the face, are 
 sparsely covered on the insides with gray hairs, and have a decided cog at the articulation 
 with the side face ; they are dark glossy brown, almost black. 
 
 Abdomen : A long oval, very little diminishing from base to apex ; dorsum not highly 
 arched, and, except in gravid females, rather flat; base overhangs cephalothorax ; the apex 
 rounded and high above spinnerets ; dorsal folium wide, diminishing somewhat towards the 
 spinnerets ; the margin, which is undulating, is dark brown or blackish, enclosing a herring 
 bone pattern of yellow, having a broken median band of darker color. A narrow ribbon 
 of whitish gray borders the scalloped edge of the folium, merging into broad ribbons of 
 yellowish color along the sides, the color of the yellow bands, particularly within the folium, 
 being sometimes cretaceous. These are followed farther down by a band of darker color 
 extending to the venter. The skin is glossy. The venter has a broad band of dark brown 
 bordered by yellowish lunettes. The epigynum (Plate I., Fig. 10) has a short thin scapus, 
 and the portuhe of the atriolum are separated by a broad, oval frontal plate, over which 
 the tip of the scapus extends. In some specimens the abdomen is quite dark, even blackish, 
 and this is not infrequent with the young. 
 
 Male: The male differs little in color and marking from the female, and is not greatly 
 less in length (9 mm.), and specimens may sometimes be found equal to the female. The palp 
 is marked by a curved lanceolate hook at the extermity, terminating in a quite decided point. 
 The* second tibia is curved and armed upon the inside with strong, black clasping spines. 
 
 DisTumuTioN : This species is one of the most common in the Eastern United States, 
 and is distributed along the Atlantic seaboard and Middle States from Canada to the south, 
 where I have collected it and observed its habits. Its extension westward I have not been 
 able to trace beyond Wisconsin (Professor Peckham), but it is probably widely distributed. 
 As E. cornuta, the principal form, it is widely dispersed over Europe. I have captured it in 
 Great Britain and Norway, and a young specimen which I take to be this species on the upper 
 railings of the dome of St. Peter's in Rome. Most students of spiders have been greatly 
 troubled in determining the foregoing three species, namely, Epeira strix, E. sclopetaria, 
 
142 AMERICAN SriDERS AND THEIR SPINNING WORK. 
 
 and E. patagiata. Tliere are certainly strong resemblances between the three; and it is 
 easy with immature specimens to confound the one with the other, indeed, it is often 
 difficult to separate them ; but in the case of well matured specimens this difficulty is not 
 so great. Strix is marked from Sclopetaria by the more even oval of its abdomen, which 
 also tends to be flat upon the dorsum ; by the shorter and stouter legs, which also have no 
 median annuli ; by the general glossy appearance upon all parts of the body, in which even 
 the abdomen shares ; by the shorter pubescence ; by the less distinctly marked line of whitish 
 gray hairs around the margin of the caput and along the front of the face. The head of 
 Strix is also a little more rounded than that of Sclopetaria and Patagiata, and the face is 
 not quite so narrow. The rear eyes of the lateral pairs are set a little farther up upon the 
 head than in Sclopetaria, but do not greatly differ in this respect from Patagiata. The 
 dorsal folium of the abdomen is usually unbroken from the base to the apex, whereas in 
 Sclopetaria there is a distinct separation into two figures, or parts of one figure, at a point 
 about one-third the distance between the base and the apex. A decided difference also 
 appears in the epigyna, the scapus of Strix being much shorter and smaller than that of 
 Sclopetaria, and the general structure in other respects differing. The scapus on the 
 epigynum of Strix more closely resembles that of Sclopetaria than that of Patagiata. (See 
 and compare Plate I., Pigs. 9, 10, 11.) All the above marks which distinguish Strix from 
 Sclopetaria equally separate it from Patagiata. The latter is distinguished from Sclopetaria 
 in the geographical province of Philadelphia by its smaller size, but specimens of Patagiata 
 from the Pacific Coast are quite as large ; see also the characteristics referred to in the above 
 description. But it may be most readily distinguished in mature species by the shape of 
 the epigynum. 
 
 No. 4. Epeira pratensis Hentz. Plate I., Figs. 6, 6a, 6b. 
 
 1847. Epeira pratensis, Hentz J. B. S., v., p. 475, pi. 31, Fig. 11. 
 
 1875. Epeira pratensis, Hentz Sp. U. S., p. 115, pi. 13, Fig. 11. 
 
 1884. Epeira pratensis, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 310, pi. 33, 15; 36, 9. 
 
 1892. Epeira pratensis, KeyseblinG. . . Spinn. Amcrk., p. 184, tab. ix., 136. 
 Kdmai.e: Total length, 10 mm.; cephalothorax, 5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 8 mm. long, 5 mm. wide ; facial width, 1.4 mm. This species varies much in size, the above 
 being one of the largest specimens. 
 
 Cephalotiiora.x : A long oval, highest in front of the fosse, which is a deep longitu- 
 dinal slit, and thence shelving to the base, which is truncated ; head depressed, quadrate; 
 cephalic suture well marked; corselet grooves distinct but not deep; colors yellowish brown, 
 with darker brown band along margins of corselet, and a yet darker one on middle of 
 caput ; skin glossy, slightly pubescent, but the head is well covered with stout gray hairs, 
 with a few long white bristles over the side eyes. The sternum is black, glossy, with pro- 
 nounced cones in front of the coxse, a few black hairs, longer than broad, the edges scal- 
 loped and the point attenuated. Labium longer than broad, dark brown at the base, 
 lighter upon the subtriangular tip. Maxillse dark brown, rather longer than wide, inclined 
 towards each other, and obtusely triangular. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded prominence much more decided in front, the rear 
 eyes, indeed, lying at the base thereof; the front wider than rear, and the sides longer 
 than the width ; MF separated a little more than one diameter, and slightly larger than 
 MR, which arc separated by about a radius; side eyes contingent on a slight tubercle ;1SF 
 larger than SR ; MF removed from SF by about 1.8 their area, and from the clypeus about 
 two diameters ; front row slightly recurved, the rear row longer and procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 14.3, 13.1, 12.5, 8.3 mm. They are stout, brownish yellow, 
 with dark annuli at tips of joints, strongly armed with brownish spines, gray bristles and 
 hairs ; palps colored and armed as legs. Mandibles conical, dark brown, arched at the base, 
 whore they are on a plane with the face, smooth and glossy. 
 
 Abdomen: Ovate, widest at base, arched upon dorsum to spinnerets, which arc under- 
 neath the apical wall ; covered with yellowish gray pubescence. Color yellowish brown. 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 143 
 
 which is lighter upon the base and darker upon the apical half. Two interrupted lines 
 of yellow color, on either side of the median, traverse longitudinally the dorsal field, 
 frequently obliterated toward the apex ; these encompass a long, lanceolate band of brown 
 color. Beyond this, at about equal distance on each side, are six interrupted lines of black 
 spots, approximating toward the apex, and which mark out the dorsal folium. The sides 
 are a rather uniform mouse color. The venter has a black, subtriangular patch, with two 
 smaller yellow patches at the end and a round yellow spot on each side of the black 
 spinnerets. The epigynum (6a, fib) has a rather narrow hood, with a strong, trowel shaped 
 scapus, dark brown, hard, glossy, spooned at the tip, furrowed almost to the base, and 
 pubescent. 
 
 Male: Resembles the female, with abdominal markings somewhat, plainer. The second 
 femur is thicker than the others, the tibia somewhat thickened, curved, and with a series 
 of short, stout clasping spines upon the inner side. 
 
 DisriuiiuTioN : This species is widely distributed, especially along the Atlantic slope, 
 having been collected from Massachusetts, where it is adult in the latter part of July or 
 early August, and southward to Virginia. Westward, specimens have been obtained from 
 Missouri and Utah (Marx). It is doubtless distributed over the whole United States along 
 the parallels above indicated, and probably is also found in the southern group of States. 
 
 No. 5. Epeira marmorea (O.erck). Plate I., Figs, l, 2; PI. II., 1, 2; PI. III., 7, 8. 
 
 1757. Araneus marmoreus, Ci.erck . . Svenska Spindlar, p. 29, pi. 1, tab. 3. 
 
 1757. Araneus Babel, Ci.erck Ibid., pi. 1, tab. (S. 
 
 1775. Areaea marmorea, Fabrhics . . Syst. Entom., ii., p. 415, 31. 
 
 1778. Aranea aurantio-maculata, De 
 
 Geer Mem., viii., p. 222, pi. 12, Figs. 10, 17. 
 
 1797. Aranea regalia, Panzer Faun. Ins. Germ., 40, 21. 
 
 1802. Aranea melittagria, Walckenaer, Fauna Parisienne, ii., 191. 
 
 1805. Epeira marmorea, Walckenaer . Tableau d'Arancides, p. (11. 
 
 1832. Epeira marmorea, Sundkyal . . Svcnski Spind., p. 241. 
 
 1839. Epeira marmorea, Kocu .... Die Arach., v., p. 63, pi. L62, Figs. 379, 380. 
 
 1861. 'Epeira marmorea, Webtring . . Aran. Svec., p. 30. 
 
 1864. Epeira scalane, Blackwall . . . Sp. Gt. B. & I., ii., p. 331, pi. 24, 240. 
 
 1866. Epeira pyramidata, Merge . . . Preuss. Spinn., p. 51, pi. 3, tab. 3. 
 
 1884. Epeira ■marmorea, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 307, pi. 33, Fig. 2. 
 
 Variety: Epeira conspicellata Walckenaer. 
 
 1842. Epeira conspicellata,'W alokenakr 1 Ins. Apt., ii., p. 58; Abbot, G. S., No. 126. 
 
 1847. Epeira inaularis, Hentz J. B. S., v., 470, xxxi. 
 
 1847. Epeira obem, Hentz Ibid., Fig. 2. 
 
 1863. Epeira ineularis, Keykkri.ing . . Neuer Orb., Sitzung. Isis, p. 91, tab. v., 3, 
 
 1869. /-.'/» ieii annulipes, Giebel .... Spinn. aus Illinois, Zeitschr. f. Gesammten Na- 
 
 turwiss., xxxiii., 250. 
 
 1870. Epeira marmorea, THORELL . . . Syn. Eu. Spid., p. 9, vars. intermedia, pyramidata. 
 1881. Epeira obem, CAMBRIDGE .... Spid. Newflnd., Proe. Roy. Phys. Soc. Edin., p. 112. 
 1884. Epeira ineularis, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 309, pi. 32, Fig. 1. 
 
 1888. Epeira oonapieellata, McCook . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 5. 
 18S9. Epeira inaularis, McCook .... Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork. 
 
 1889. Epeira marmorea, McCook . . . Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vol. I., p. 77. 
 1889. Epeira marmorea, Mary .... Catalogue, p. 546. 
 
 1892. Epeira intmlarh, Kkynerling . . Spinnen Amerikas, Epeir., p. 170, pi. 8, 126. 
 
 1 Walckenaer lias " conspicillata," perhaps a misprint ; ho named the species from the fancied 
 resemblance of the dorsal pattern to a pair of spectacles. The identity with llentz's E. insularis admits of 
 no doubt, and if our American form be held as a true species it must bear the prior name of Walckenaer, 
 as I first pointed out in 1888. 
 
144 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Fkmale: Body length, 15 mm.; cephalothorax, 7 mm. long, 6 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 12 mm. long, 7 mm. wide. This species varies greatly in size, ranging from the above to 
 10 mm. long, and an abdominal width of 5 mm. The description fallowing is of the 
 American variety, E. conspicellata (E. insularis), as the one most prevalent and generally 
 known. The two varieties are so closely interblended that it is often difficult and indeed 
 impossible, to positively distinguish them, but the figures in the plates will sufficiently 
 show the features of the most divergent forms. E. marmorea (Plate III., 6) more closely 
 resembles the European specimens, which I have compared with examples sent me from 
 Russia by Professor W. Wagner. I have found it in northern New York and New England, 
 and not elsewhere. The variety E. conspicellata is the one which appears to prevail west 
 and south of the above limits. It differs from the forma prinotpalis chiefly by the brighter 
 orange hues, the more sharply outlined folium, and by somewhat more distinctly annulated 
 legs. In general size, form, and habits the species are alike. 
 
 CfipnALOTHORAX : Almost as wide as long; truncated and indented at the base, shelving 
 upward to the fosse, which is deep ; cephalic suture well marked, corselet grooves sufficiently 
 distinct ; flat upon top, rounded at sides ; head slightly arched, and a very little elevated 
 above the level of the corselet; color varying from orange to yellow, with darker stripes upon 
 the sides and middle of caput; skin glossy and lightly pubescent. Sternum heart shaped, 
 indented at the edges, with decided cones in front of the coxa; and labium and upon the 
 apex ; flattened in the middle, lightly pubescent, orange brown, with a lighter yellowish 
 median band ; lip longer than wide, rounded at sides, tips subtriangular, more than half 
 the height of the maxilla;. Maxillae rounded at the sides, tips obtusely triangular and 
 inclined towards each other, length and width about equal. Color of maxilla; and lip 
 orange brown, with light yellow tips. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded prominence, wider in front than rear, sides about 
 equal in length to front; MF separated by about 1.3 diameter, and somewhat larger 
 than MR, which are separated by about one diameter. Side eyes on tubercles, SF larger 
 than SR, separated by about the radius of SR ; MF removed from SF by about 2.5 times 
 their intervening space, or 1.3 their area. Front row recurved, rear row longer and pro- 
 curved. Height of clypeus about 1.5 diameter MF or less; a line of bristles extends along 
 its margin. 
 
 Legs: Order, 1, 2, 4, 3; color usually a bright orange both above and beneath as far 
 as the tibia, whence the color is yellow, with dark brown or blackish tips at the joints ; 
 provided with long gray hairs and stout bristles, yellowish upon the yellow parts and black 
 upon the dark parts ; numerous spines, long, yellowish white, with brown bases. Palps 
 lighter in color than legs, tips black, and terminal joints heavily covered with bristles and 
 spines. 
 
 Abdomen : Ovate, widest about the middle, highly arched on the dorsum, tapering to 
 the distal spinnerets ; color usually bright yellow, a broad folium narrowing to the apex 
 with at least six indentations, which are distinctly marked out with broad margins of 
 brown. The median design is composed of a series of cruciform figures and triangles, which 
 vary more or less according to specimens, but are tolerably persistent. The figure upon the 
 base usually resembles a Maltese cross, though sometimes the upper arm is obliterated, 
 giving the appearance of a trefoil. The next figure is sometimes cruciform, but the central 
 part is occasionally obliterated, leaving the points grouped as a quatrefoil. Waving lines of 
 yellow brown pass along the sides from dorsum to spinnerets. The ventral figure is a sub- 
 triangular patch of velvety brown or black, bordered by a horseshoe band of yellow. Six 
 compressed spots are arranged on either side of the median line. The spinnerets are 
 usually orange color, though sometimes brown or blackish, with a yellow spot at either side 
 of the base. The epigynum (Plate I., Figs, la, lb ; Figs. 2, 2a) has, in some examples, at 
 least, the receptacles thrown up prominently above the surface ; the scapus long, wrinkled, 
 of nearly equal length throughout, but somewhat narrowing toward the tip, which is 
 spooned, and the entire under surface furrowed. 
 
 Malk : Individuals vary much in size, one specimen before me being 9 mm. long; 
 cephalothorax, 5 mm. long by 4 mm. wide across the corselet, diminishing to about 2 mm. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 145 
 
 at the face. The color of the cephalothorax is uniform orange brown, with a light band, 
 heavily pubescent, on the extreme margin. The skin is glossy, but little pubescent. The 
 legs are orange to orange yellow, with orange brown annuli at the tips of the joints, and 
 median annuli along femurs-I and II. The color of the tibia is rather lighter than that 
 of the femur, and the metatarsus and tarsus still lighter yellow. The tibia of leg-II is 
 curved, thickened about the middle, and with a triple row of short, black, toothed clasping 
 spines upon the inner side. The spines upon the femora are shorter ; those upon the tibia 
 of leg-I are long, yellowish brown, with dark bases. The coxae of leg-I has upon the 
 side next leg-II a short, curved brown spur, curved toward the face; and coxas-II has at 
 the base near the articulation of the sternum a slight conical process. The palps are as in 
 Plate I., Fig. lc, 2b. The abdomen is a long oval, colored and marked upon the dorsum 
 with a folium not greatly differing from that of the female. 
 
 Distribution : As Marmorea is widely distributed throughout Europe and the Amer- 
 ican specimen is found in most parts of the United States, the species is thus seen to have 
 an extended distribution. I have collected it from New England southward to Florida, 
 westward through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin. It is found in Arizona, but I 
 have as yet received no specimens from the Pacific Coast. 
 
 No. 6. Epeira trifolium Hentz. Plate I., 3a-6; PI. II., 3; Vol. II., PI. IV. 
 
 1837. Epeira jaspidata, Walckenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 59; Abbot, G. S. No. 111. 1 
 
 1847. Epeira trifolium, Hentz J. B. S., v., 471; Sp. U. S., 110, xiii., 1 
 
 1847. Epeira aureola, Hentz Ibid., pi. xxi. (xiii.), 2. 
 
 1884. Epeira trifolium, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 306, pi. 33, Fig. 8. 
 
 1889. Epeira trifolium, MuCook .... Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork. 
 
 1889. Epeira trifolium, Marx Catalogue, p. 548. 
 
 Female: Total length, 15 mm.; cephalothorax, 7.5 mm. long, mm. wide; abdomen, 
 12 mm. long, 8 mm. wide. This is one of our largest indigenous species, and varies much 
 in size from the above length and upward to adult females of 10 mm. long. It is especially 
 distinguished by great differences in color at different stages and among different individ- 
 uals, as illustrated Vol. II., Plate I., p. 48. 
 
 Cei'Hai.otiiora.x : A rounded oval or cordate, truncated and indented at the base ; corselet 
 flat on top, the fosse a deep transvei'se slit; cephalic suture sufficiently marked, corselet 
 grooves rather indistinct ; color brown, with a yellow marginal band on the dorsum, passing 
 upward to the sides of the caput ; head lowly arched ; face depressed, wide, quadrate, with 
 gray pubescence. The sternum is shield shaped, dark brown, the median band of lighter 
 color ; sternal cones marked ; labium blackish brown, lighter at the tip, as are also the 
 maxillae, which are longer than or as long as wide. 
 
 Eras: Ocular quad on a well rounded prominence, the front wider than rear and 
 narrower than sides; MF separated by 1.5 to 2 diameters, somewhat larger than MR, 
 which are separated by one diameter or more ; side eyes on tubercles, separated by about 
 the diameter of SR, which are smaller than SF ; MF divided from SF by about 1.5 the 
 area of MF, or say 2.5 times their interspace; clypeus height about two diameters or more 
 of MF, and with marginal row of strong yellow hail's. The front row recurved and shorter 
 than the procurved rear row. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; strong, stout, not long for the size of the species, abundantly pro- 
 vided with grayish yellow hairs and bristles and yellow spines, which are dark brown on 
 the basal half; color yellow, with bright brown apical tips, patellae entirely brown, feet 
 brownish black. Palps light yellow, without annuli, thickly provided with strong yellow 
 spines and bristles. Mandibles strong, conical, arched at the base, and swollen on the 
 outside at the articulation with the clypeus. ' 
 
 1 Abbot's drawing of this species in the MSS. in Kensington Library of the Brit. Mus. Nat. Hist, 
 appears- to be E. trifolium Hentz ; but there is enough doubt as between this and E. insularis Hz. to 
 justify leaving the name thus. 
 
146 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Abdomen : The dorsal markings are difficult to describe, and vary considerably. The 
 dorsum is well arched, rounding from base to distal spinnerets ; covered sparsely with white 
 hairs. Near the base three white patches of circular or irregular shape are grouped together 
 in a form somewhat like clover or shamrock leaves, which doubtless suggested the specific 
 name. These are attached to the yellowish stem which proceeds along the median line 
 forward and backward. In some examples this trefoil pattern is repeated about the middle 
 of the dorsum, and white or whitish patches of varying sizes are distributed in semicircular 
 lines, with the convex part towards the apex, along the dorsal field. In some specimens 
 the median band is continuous; in others it is broken up into groups of whitish patches 
 resembling clover leaves. Plate II., Fig. 3, and Plate I., Vol. II., represent some of the most 
 decided patterns. Fasciculated markings extend on either side of the median line from 
 about the middle of the dorsum towards the apex, and these are usually brown. The color 
 is yellowish brown at the margin of the sides, somewhat mottled with black interrupted 
 stripes. The venter has a broad brownish band, extending from the pedicle to the spin- 
 nerets, sometimes with a marginal border of yellow. The epigynum (Plate I., Figs. 3, 3a) 
 has a large and well arched porch, and a stout scapus, bent downward and forward, spoon 
 tipped, furrowed, and of about equal width throughout, though slightly narrowed at the tip 
 and widened at the base. The basal parts of the portulaa widen at either side, and are 
 curved like a scallop shell. 
 
 Male : The male (Vol. II., Plate I., Fig. 10) is much smaller than the female, specimens 
 in hand being 4.8 mm. long. The cephalothorax is longer than the abdomen in some 
 examples, of yellowish color, and the legs have the same hue, with yellowish brown 
 annuli at the joints. The abdomen is white or whitish, with a slight tendency to be broken 
 up into irregular markings. The palps are a whitish yellow, with dark yellow markings 
 upon the digital joint, which is represented at Plate I., Fig. 36. 
 
 There is an undoubted resemblance between this species and the European Epeira 
 quadrata; but after having compared the typical Epeira trifolium with an example of 
 E. quadrata, female, sent me from Moscow, Russia, by Professor Waldemar Wagner, I 
 regard them as distinct. Not to speak of other differences, the scapus of the epigynum is 
 quite different. In Quadrata it is wide at the base, where it is slightly notched, and rapidly 
 narrows to a rounded point; the tip is spooned, and the edges rimmed slightly throughout 
 the entire length. The organ has somewhat the shape of a mason's trowel. On the con- 
 trary, the scapus of Trifolium is not so wide at the base, is not set upon the atriolum like 
 the blade of a trowel upon its handle, but is continuous with the same. Moreover, it pre- 
 serves a nearly equal width throughout the entire length of the scapus, being slightly 
 wider at the base. Dr. Thorell, to whom I sent a specimen of Epeira trifolium, agrees in 
 thinking the two to be distinct species. The spines in Quadrata are dark or blackish, but 
 in Trifolium they are yellow, with brown bases. The midfront eyes of Quadrata also seem 
 to be relatively nearer than in Trifolium. 
 
 Distribution: Throughout the United States, along the Atlantic Coast from Canada 
 through New England, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia. It has been found 
 in Alabama, and probably inhabits the central Southern States ; has been collected in 
 Maryland and the District of Columbia, in Wisconsin, Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana, 
 and as far south as New Mexico. I have the male from Utah (Professor 0. Howard), 
 the Big Horn Country, Tacoma, Wash. (Mr. M. S. Hill), and San Diego, Cal. (Mrs. Smith). 
 Hentz's original description is from a specimen collected in Maine, and he makes no note 
 of having found it in the Southern States, where most of his studies were pursued. 
 
 Epeira trifolium, variety candicans. Plate I., Fig. 4, 4a. 
 
 I find a number of specimens of this species differing little from the typical form in 
 detailed structure, but which in general appearance are strikingly different, approximating 
 the form of the male. (Plate I., Fig. 4.) In these the abdomen is ovate, considerably 
 narrower than long, instead of the globose form most prevailing. The color is yellowish 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 147 
 
 white, with lighter shade upon the dorsum, which is rather flattened than arched. The 
 skin is abundantly covered with long whitish yellow bristles. One specimen from California 
 (Mrs. Smith) measures 10 mm. long; abdomen, 7 mm. long by 4.5 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 5 mm. long by 4 mm. wide ; first leg, 15 mm. It has the spines dark, as in E. quadrata, 
 instead of yellow with brown bases, as in E. trifolium. 
 
 No. 7. Epeira Benjamina Wamkekaer. Plate I., Fig. 7; PI. II., Figs. 4, 5. 
 
 , 1837. Epeira Benjamina, Walckenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 42; Abbot, G. S., No. 126, 351. 
 
 r 1837. Epeira mutabilis, Walckenaer . . Ibid., p. 73; Abbot, G. S., No. 351. 
 
 1847. Epeira domiciliorum, Hentz . . . J. B. S., v., p. 469 ; Id., Sp. U. S., p. 108 ; xii., 7. 
 
 1864. Epeira Hentzii, Keyserling . . . Beschr. n. Orbitel., p. 97 ; v., 10, 11. 
 
 1884. Epeira domiciliorum,- Emerton . N. E. Ep., p. 312 ; xxxiii., 17 ; xxxvi., 1-4. 
 
 1888. Epeira Benjamina, McCook . . . Necessity for Revising Nomenclature of Am. Spid., 
 
 Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 5. 
 
 1889. Epeira domiciliorum, McCook . . Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vols. I., II. 
 1889. Epeira benjamina, Marx .... Catalogue. 
 
 Female : Total length, 15 mm. ; cephalothorax, 6 mm. long, 5 mm. wide ; abdomen, 11 
 mm. long ; 9 mm. wide at the base, diminishing to 3 mm. or less at the apex. The species 
 differs much in size and color according to distribution and age, and in the typical speci- 
 mens the fore part of the body is bright orange on the cephalothorax, thighs, and patella, 
 lightening into yellow on the remaining joints of the legs, with decided darker annuli at 
 the tips. The abdomen is yellow or yellowish brown, which in old age deepens, becoming 
 reddish brown, a shade which the cephalothorax and legs also assume. See Plate II., Fig. 4, 
 drawn from an old specimen. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Rounded, truncated at the indented base ; the posterior slope smooth, 
 the fosse deep ; the cephalic suture marked, grooves sufficiently distinct ; margins and sides 
 of corselet and sides of the head covered with yellowish hairs ; skin glossy, varying from 
 uniform brown to yellow or orango yellow streaked with orange marks. Caput quadrate in 
 front, and slightly depressed from the summit of the corselet. Sternum shield shaped, 
 yellowish brown, lightened in the middle ; in some specimens much brightened with 
 a broad yellow band attenuated at the point ; skin glossy, covered with yellowish gray 
 hairs, with sternal cones raised in the middle. Lip wider than high, subtriangular ; max- 
 illa? somewhat longer than wide, tips subtriangular, and directed towards each other; color 
 brown, or like the sternum, with lighter shade upon the tips. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a prominence more decided in front, where it is slightly wider, 
 the sides somewhat longer. MF separated by at least 1.5 diameter, somewhat larger than MR, 
 which are separated by about one diameter ; the ocular eminence is surrounded at the base 
 by yellowish hairs, which are also on the face and eyebrows. Side eyes on tubercles, con- 
 tingent; SF larger than SR. MF removed from SF by about 2.5 times their intervening 
 space or 1.3 their alignment ; front row somewhat recurved, rear row procurved ; clypeus 
 about two diameters of MF high, and the margin has rows of strong yellowish bristles. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout upon the femora, though somewhat attenuated at the terminal 
 joints ; the ground color yellow, with bands of bright orange at tips of joints and in the 
 middle of the femora ; slightly darker median annuli also mark the tibia. The surface is 
 heavily clothed with yellow hairs and bristles, and numerous yellow spines with dark bases, 
 which, however, are blackish on the terminal joints. Palps heavily armed throughout and 
 colored as legs, but of lighter hue ; mandibles conical, slightly arched at the base, articulating 
 in the plane of the face; brown or yellowish brown. 
 
 Abdomen : When the female is not gravid the abdomen is subtriangular in shape, being 
 much wider at the base. It is sparsely covered with long white bristles with dark bases, 
 which are gathered in a tuft at the front where it overhangs the cephalothorax ; also freely 
 covered with short yellowish hairs. The dorsal folium (Plate I., Fig. 7) is an anchorlike figure, 
 with strong dentations of light color branching from each side and diminishing towards the 
 
148 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINQWORK. 
 
 apex ; this is flanked on either side by well shaded margins of dark color. This pattern 
 shows much more distinctly on some specimens than others and tends to he obliterated 
 with advancing age. (See Plate II., Fig. 4.) The venter has a wide, black subtriangular patch 
 surrounded by a broad yellow margin, presenting the appearance of a military chapeau, 
 sometimes interrupted, leaving but two large circular spots on either side. The spinnerets 
 are bright orange or brown with an interrupted girdle of yellow, one large patch on each 
 side forward of the base. The epigynum (Plate I., Figs. 7a, 7b) has a strong curved scapus 
 almost as wide as the atriolum at its base, where the color is yellow or orange yellow; it is 
 compressed about the middle and widened into a spooned bowl; it is furrowed on either 
 side with a hard blackish brown rim almost to the base. 
 
 Male: Plate I., 7c; Plate II., 5. The male resembles in color the female, though there is 
 a tendency to lighter hues. The body is provided with the same long, strong, whitish bristles 
 and hairs that mark the female. These are often strong on the eyebrows and the margin 
 of the cephalothorax, and they form decided brushes upon the palpal joints. The tibia of 
 the second leg is curved outward and provided on the inner and under side with a double 
 row of short toothlike spines extending the entire length, flanked on one side by a single 
 row, the long spines making a formidable clasping apparatus. 
 
 Distribution: This is one of the most common of our American species and is widely 
 and probably generally distributed throughout the United States. I have specimens ranging 
 from New England to Florida along the Atlantic Coast, and as far west as California. 
 I have taken it in Portland, Oregon, and Dr. Marx reports it from Nebraska, Texas, Utah, 
 in Colorado at a height of twelve hundred feet, in Minnesota, and at various points along 
 the Atlantic Coast. 
 
 No. 8. Epeira arabesca Walckenahb. Plate I., Figs. 8, 8a.; PI. II., Figs. 0, 7. 
 
 1805. Eprira arabesca, Walckknaeu . . Tableau des Araignees, p. 63, No. 44. 
 
 71837. Epeira arabesca, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 74 ; Aiibot, G. S., Nos. 331, 346. 
 
 1837. Epeira mutabUis, Walokenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 73, No. 58, in part; Abbot, G. S., 
 
 No. 355. 
 
 1864. Epeira Iririllata, Keyserlinq . . Beschr. n. Orbit., Isis, p. 95, 6-9. 
 
 1884. Epeira Iririllata, Emkrton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 311, xxxiii., 16; xxxvi., 2, 3, 5, 8. 
 
 1888. Epeira arabesca, McCook .... Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sc, Phila., p. 3. 
 
 1889. Epeira Iririllata, McCook .... Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vol. I. 
 1889. Epeira arabesca, Makx Catalogue, in loc. 
 
 1892. Epeira Irivittata, Keynerling . . Spinn. Amerik., p. 172, pi. viii., 127. 
 
 Female : Body length varies from 6 to 8 mm. ; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long, 2 mm. 
 wide ; abdomen, 5 mm. long, 4 mm. wide at the base, narrowing much at the apex. Like 
 Epeira Benjamina, which this species resembles in many respects, the general color varies 
 from reddish brown to yellow. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Cordate, elevated at the centre, sloping abruptly to the indented base ; 
 the fosse a longitudinal slit ; corselet grooves and cephalic suture distinct ; color yellow to 
 orange yellow or brown; freely covered with yellowish white hairs, especially on the sides 
 of the caput, which form strong eyebrows at the side; the head depressed, sloping to the 
 face; sternum shield shaped, somewhat longer than wide, sternal cones distinct; pubescent 
 edges brown, with broad median yellow band upon the middle; lip low, obtusely triangu- 
 lar; mas ilia; about as wide as long, obtusely triangular at the tips; labium and maxilhe 
 yellow. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad upon an eminence projecting in front, leaving MR scarcely elevated 
 above the facial surface J, the front somewhat longer than the rear, and the sides longer 
 than either; the eyes about equal in size, though MR appear slightly larger; MF separated 
 by about 1.3 diameter; MR by about a radius; eyes upon tubercles, barely contingent; SF 
 larger than MF, and separated by about a little more than the area of the former, or 1.5 times 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 149 
 
 their intervening space ; the margin of the clypeus is obliterated by the ocular prominence, 
 which comes to the very edge, the height being scarcely more than one diameter of MF; 
 all the eyes are upon black bases, thus appearing dark ; the front row recurved, the longer 
 rear row procurved ; a few whitish yellow bristles mark the eye space and margin of 
 clypeus. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3 ; yellow, with strong brown annuli ; stout, heavily armored with strong 
 brown spines and yellowish bristles and pubescence; palps colored and armed as legs; 
 mandibles rather long, conical, with yellowish pubescence at edges; the basal cog well 
 marked. 
 
 Aiibomen: Ovate, widest at base, narrowing to the distal spinnerets; dorsum well 
 arched; color yellow to yellowish white, with a brownish yellow folium, whose margins are 
 marked from middle to apex by a V-shaped figure of semicircular brownish patches, with 
 the concavity towards the base; the centre of the dorsum is lighter yellowish ; the pattern 
 a broad arrow shaped marking, with side offshoots (Plate I., 8) ; from the median line curved 
 branchlets proceed on either side to the spinnerets ; the surface is reticulated and covered 
 thinly with soft, yellowish hairs. The lunette markings on the dorsum enable one to easily 
 identify the species, though something similar may be found in other species, especially in the 
 male of Epeira Benjamina. In some specimens the colors are reddish brown (Plate II., 6), 
 particularly on the abdomen ; in others they are yellow and gray ; the venter has a trun- 
 cated triangle of brown, flanked on either side by a broken yellow band, consisting usually 
 of three spots on either side ; the epigynum (Plate I., 8a) has a decided scapus, broadest at 
 the base, not tapering, flattened and spooned at the tip, resembling that of E. Benjamina ; 
 the atriolum is narrow, and the portulse hidden by the projecting scapus. 
 
 Malk: Length, mm. ; abdomen, 3.5 mm. long, 2 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 3 mm. 
 long, 2 mm. wide; colors and markings closely resembling those of the female, except that 
 the dorsal folium is often white, or whitish, instead of yellow, the colors generally inclined 
 to be a little paler. Tibia-II is somewhat curved, and armed along the entire inner side 
 by a double row of strong black clasping spines ; these at the articulation with the patella 
 are flanked on the inside by two very long, strong, straight spines, and on the outer side 
 by three of a similar character, but shorter; the palp is represented at Plate I., Fig. 86. 
 This spider has sometimes been confused with small specimens of Epeira Benjamina. The 
 ocular quad of the latter species is relatively much wider in front ; also, the midfront eyes 
 are removed from the margin of the clypeus at least three times their diameter, while 
 in E. arabesca they are about one diameter therefrom. Moreover, the abdomen of Benja- 
 mina is rather flattened and triangular ovate, while that of Arabesca is rather ovate. E. 
 Benjamina is a much larger species. 
 
 Distribution : The United States. I have collected this species along the entire Atlantic 
 Coast, from New England to Florida, and as far west as Ohio. I have specimens from 
 Georgia, North Carolina, Florida, and Texas. It has been taken in Alabama, New Mexico, 
 Utah, and California. I have specimens from as far north as Wisconsin, and have captured 
 it in Canada in the neighborhood of Montreal. It also inhabits South America, where it 
 presents great variation in color and size. As far as my observation goes, it is not subject 
 in the United States to great variation in size, being rarely found longer than 8 mm., or 
 shorter than mm. 
 
 No. 9. Epeira cucurbitina (Clerck). Plate III., Figs. 1,2,3; PI. IV., Fig. 6. 
 
 1757. Araneus cucurbitinus, Ci.erik . . Svenska Spindlar, p. 44, pi. 2, tab. 4. 
 
 1761. Aranea cucurbitina, Linneus . . Syst. Nat. Ed., 10, i., p. 020. 
 
 1775. Aranea senoculata, Fahricius . . Entom. Syst., t. 2, p. 420, No. 71. 
 
 1778. Epeira viridis-punctata, Du Geek, Mem., vii., p. 233, pi. 14. 
 
 1793. The Gourd Spider, Martvn . . . Natural History of Spiders, p. 19, Spec 12, pi. 2, 
 
 Fig. 0. 
 
 1805. Epeira cucurbitina, WaIiOKBNABR, Tabl. des Aran., p. 03, No. 40. 
 
150 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 1806. Epeira cucurbUina, Latrbille, . . Genera Crust, et Insect., tab. 1, p. 107, No. 11. 
 1832. Epeira cucurbUina, Sundevall . Svenska Spindlarness, p. 245, No. 8. 
 1850. Miranda cucurbUina, Koch ... Die Arachnidcn, v., 53, pi. 159, Figs. 371, 372. 
 1861. Epeira cucurbUina, Westring . . Aranese Svecicre, p. 50, p. 53, pi. 159, Fig. 371, 
 
 male ; 373, female, 342. 
 1864. Epeira cucurbUina, Blackball . Spid. Gt. B. & I., 342, xxxv., f. 247. 
 
 1870. Epeira cucurbUina, Thorell . . Syn. Ent. Spid., p. 23. 
 
 Variety: E. displicata Hentz. 
 v 1842. E.eiiriirbiliim-amencana,'W AhCK. . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 76; Abbot, G. S., No. 178. 
 1847. Epeira displicata, Hentz .... J. B. S., v., 117. 
 1866. Miranda cucurbUina, Menqb . . Preuss. Spinn., i., p. 68, pi. 10, tab. 14. 
 
 1871. Epeira cucurbUina, Blackwall . Spiders from Montreal, Ann. & Mag. Nat. Hist., 
 
 4th ser., viii., 429. 
 1875. Eperia displicata, Hentz . . . . Sp. U. S., p. 117, xiii., 17. 
 1884. Eperia displicata, Emkrton . . . N. Eng. Ep., p. 313, pi. 34, Fig. 4. 
 1889. Epeera displicata, McCook . . . Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vol. I., 121. 
 1889. Epeira displicata, Marx .... Catalogue, p. 544. 
 1889. Epeira cucurbUina, Marx .... In part, Catalogue, p. 544. 
 
 Female: Body length, 8 mm.; abdomen, 6 mm. long, 5 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 3 mm. long, 2 mm. wide. The adult specimens of this spider vary from 9 to 6 mm. in length. 
 The typical color appears to be, for the legs and cephalothorax a yellowish brown; for 
 the abdomen a light green, with a tinge sometimes of blue, for the background of the 
 dorsum, upon which are drawn, on either side of the median line, two irregular scalloped 
 bands of white or yellowish white coining to a point at the apex. On the sides a band 
 of similar color and width passes entirely around the abdomen. The color, however, varies 
 much upon the abdomen ; I have specimens in which it is almost white, and others again 
 (as Plate III., 3, 3a) from California where the ground color is a bright red. The species is 
 briefly distinguished by four round black spots arranged in V-shape, beginning at the apex 
 and widely open at the last spot, which is placed almost at the middle of the dorsum. 
 The six pits which mark the muscular attachments, on either side of the median line, are 
 also quite distinct, especially the two forward pairs. On most specimens longitudinal lines, 
 curved or straight, mark the lower part of the dorsum. 
 
 CEi'iiALOTnoRAX : Rounded, smooth, glossy; caput erected above the surface though 
 sloping at the ocular area; sternum yellow, slightly covered with hairs, narrowed and 
 pointed at the base, with slight sternal cones. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; uniform yellow brown, except that the feet are black. They are 
 well clothed, but not excessively, with spines and bristles. Mandibles colored as the ceph- 
 alothorax, project at the clypeus, where they are well rounded, and taper slightly towards 
 the fangs. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad rectangular, MF smaller than MR, about. 1.5 diameter apart ; MR 
 separated by less than one diameter. The front row is slightly recurved and is shorter 
 than the rear row, which is procurved; MF distant from SF about 1.5 their alignment, and 
 MR from SR about twice their alignment; clypeus, 3 diameters MF high. " 
 
 Abdomen: Well arched, especially when gravid, but a number of specimens are flat- 
 tened upon the dorsum; shape oval, diminishing towards the base as well as towards the 
 spinnerets, which it slightly overhangs. The venter is marked by a broad brownish band, 
 with two round white or whitish yellow spots on either side of the median line. These 
 spots in some specimens become interblended. The epigynum (Plate III., 3b, 3c) has a 
 broad but decided scapus quite wide at the base and slightly spooned at the tip; it is well 
 elevated above the venter. 
 
 Male: Plate III., 2, 2a. In general color and markings the male corresponds with the 
 female ; it is 5 mm. in length. The tibia of the second pair of legs is without any special 
 armature. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 151 
 
 Distiuiiution : I have specimens from New England southward to Florida, and also 
 from Utah (Professor O. Howard), from Southern California, and as far north as Wis- 
 consin (Professor Peckham). Dr. Marx notes it as found in Alabama and Texas, indicating 
 a distribution throughout the entire Gulf States. We may thus conclude that it is distrib- 
 uted over the entire United States. As it may be regarded as identical with the European 
 E. cucurbitina, it has a wide European distribution, and is one of the best and earliest 
 known species. 
 
 No. 1 0. Epeira vertebrata McCook. Plate III., Figs. 6, 7 ; PI. IV., Fig. 1 ; PI. V., Fig. 4. 
 
 1888. Epeira vertebrata, McCook .... Acad. Nat. Sci., Philada., p. 196. 
 
 1889. Epeira vertebrata, McCook .... Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork. 
 
 Female: Total length, 14 mm.; cephalothorax, 6 mm. long, 4.5 mm. wide, at the face 
 2 mm. wide ; abdomen, 11 mm. long, 7.5 wide, narrowing to 2 mm. at the apex and 3 mm. 
 at the base. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A rather long oval, twice as wide at the base as at the face, flattened 
 on top and gradually depressed to the base ; fosse a longitudinal slit ; caput very gradually 
 sloping to the face, like the corselet somewhat flattened on top ; color yellow, with a broad 
 brown stripe on the sides which entirely surrounds the face, and a median stripe of brown 
 which is broadest on the caput ; it thus presents the appearance of having four longitudi- 
 nal yellow stripes alternated with three of brown. ' The corselet is sparsely provided upon 
 the sides with whitish gray hairs, which form borders on the margin, and are much 
 thicker on the sides of the caput ; the sternum is shield shaped, somewhat longer than 
 wide, with a broad median band of yellow; much rounded at the apex, and indented at 
 the sides; well covered with hair; sternal cones prominent; lip large, subtriangular, one- 
 half as high as the maxillpe, which are slightly longer than wide, subtriangular at the tips; 
 both organs brown, with yellow tips, and covered with dark curved bristles. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad wider in front than behind, length greater than width, the fore part 
 on an eminence much more decided in front ; eyes about equal in size ; MF separated by 
 about 1.3 diameter ; MR by about one diameter ; side eyes on tubercles, smaller than the 
 middle eyes, but about equal in size, barely contingent ; SF removed from MF by 1.5 the 
 alignment of the latter, or at least two times or more their intervening space ; the clypeus 
 is narrow, the ocular eminence almost touching the margin, which is removed by about 
 1.5 diameter from MF ; the front row is slightly recurved ; the longer rear row procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout at the thighs, but tapering well to the tarsi, abundantly armed 
 with strong blackish brown spines and with gray bristles and hair ; color yellow, with dark 
 brown annuli, and the thighs, particularly at legs-I and II, in many specimens almost 
 entirely glossy brown, flecked with gray pubescence ; the palps are marked and armed as 
 the legs, but rather lighter in color ; the mandibles are dark glossy brown, with tufts of 
 hair upon the inside ; conical, much narrower at the tips than at the base ; the basal cog 
 prominent, as is the corresponding dewlap upon the face ; the tips and fangs are black. 
 
 Abdomen : An elongated oval, somewhat narrowed at the rounded base, and much nar- 
 rowed at the apex to the distal spinnerets ; the dorsum well arched, the ground color brown, 
 or yellowish brown, with a median herring bone or arrow shaped pattern with a double 
 head, the point of the anterior one reaching to the middle of the basal front. Beyond the 
 second arrow head the median pattern continues to the apex with indented edges; the 
 centre of this vertebralike figure is marked along the entire dorsum with an interrupted 
 ribbon of brown mottled with yellow ; the folial margin consists of a band of yellow broken 
 into spots, sometimes outlined with rosy brown, in the centre of which are black patches, 
 forming a V-shaped figure receding toward the apex somewhat like Epeira arabesca ; the 
 sides are broad, irregular yellow bands. The surface is strongly reticulated and the whole 
 appearance beautiful. The venter is a broad anchor shaped band of brown, flanked on 
 
 1 This effect in some plates has been obliterated by the colorists. 
 
152 AMERICAN SPIDEKS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 either side by a yellow ribbon, which passes around the orange yellow spinnerets. The 
 epigynum has a narrow atriolum (Plate IV., lc, Id, le), with a strong brownish black corneous 
 scapus, channeled along the lower side and spooned at the tip, resembling that of Epeira 
 Benjamina and E. arabesca. 
 
 Male: Plate V., Figs. 4a-c. Fourteen mm. long, but varying much in length, one speci- 
 men being but little more than half this measurement. The cephalothorax is a long oval, 
 6 mm. long, 5 mm. wide ; the fosse a lengthened longitudinal slit ; the corselet flat upon the 
 top; the corselet grooves and cephalic suture very indistinct; the juncture of the caput 
 almost obliterated, the head narrowing to the face ; very little pubescence ; the skin yellow- 
 ish brown, smooth, glossy, with yellow stripes around the margins and longitudinal stripes 
 upon the summit faintly, after the fashion of the female. The legs are long, very stout at 
 the femora and tibia-I and II, but much thinner at the tarsus and metatarsus; tibia-I is 
 somewhat thickened at the apex, and provided with a number of short, black clasping 
 teeth, flanked by strong rows of black spines. The femur of leg-II has a number of black 
 shortened spines underneath the apical part; the tibia is thickened at the base, curved, 
 thickened again at the apex, and provided the entire length with numerous black clasping 
 spines, which are much more numerous towards the apex, where they are clustered together 
 in quadruple rows; strong, long black spines arm the base, and extend along either side. 
 All the legs are provided with yellowish brown spines and yellowish bristles ; the leg arma- 
 ture of the male of this species is extremely formidable. The abdomen is a long oval, 
 marked upon the dorsum somewhat as is the female, but with the herring bone pattern 
 more interrupted ; the palps are represented as to shape and color by Plate V., Figs. 4a-c. 
 Strong, blunt, curved coxal spurs mark the first legs at their articulation with the trochan- 
 ter, and a long conical spur marks the middle of coxa-IV in a similar position. Length, 
 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows : 24.5, 21.75, 20.5, 13.5 mm. 
 
 This species has points of resemblance to E. arabesca, but is decidedly different in many 
 respects. The coloring and shape of the cephalothorax alone at once distinguish it ; in Ara- 
 besca this is high, peaked in the centre, abruptly sloping to the base and to the face, whereas 
 in E. vertcbrata the corselet is rather flat on top, and very gradually depressed to the base 
 and the tace^ The dorsal pattern upon the abdomen is quite different, although presenting 
 points of resemblance. The characteristics of the male are different, and the size of Verte- 
 brata is much greater than of Arabesca. 
 
 The dark forms of this species (Plate IV., Fig. 1) resemble in the markings of the 
 abdomen the lighter variety. The abdomen, however, in the specimens possessed by me 
 appears to be of a more uniform oval shape throughout. The colors of the abdomen are 
 black, with yellow markings. On either side are two broad broken bands of circular and 
 irregular waving figures, which meet in front and at the apex. The cephalothorax and 
 the legs are of a dark reddish brown, or even blackish. The bands on the cephalothorax 
 are also quite black, as are the tips of the female. This may be the normal color of the 
 female after depositing the cocoon, but I have so many specimens that are marked in this 
 way that it seems well to note the differences. 
 
 DisTiuiiUTioN : A number of specimens of both sexes and various ages have been 
 received from California (Mrs. Eigcnmann, Dr. Davidson, Dr. Blaisdell). From the "Alba- 
 tros" expeditions (Mr. C. H. Townsend) I have examples from Clarion Island, Lower 
 California, and Galapagos Islands. At San Diego the species is abundant and is distributed 
 to some extent northward along the Pacific Coast. It may be a subtropical species. I 
 have raised several from imported eggs to maturity in Philadelphia. 
 
 No. 1 1. Epeira Ithaca (new species). Plate IV., Figs. 3, 3a-d. 
 
 Kkmai.e: Total length, 10 mm.; abdomen, 7 mm. long, 5 mm. wide at broadest part; 
 cephalothorax, 5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. The colors for the fore part of the body are 
 orange yellow and yellow ; of the abdomen, yellow and brown. The colors of the male are 
 similar. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 153 
 
 Cei'iialotiiorax : A rounded oval, sloping gradually backward from the deep circular 
 fosse and forward to the eye space ; head quadrate ; cephalic suture distinct ; slightly pubes- 
 cent ; color orange yellow. Sternum cordate, dark brown, sternal cones distinct ; labium 
 semicircular; maxilla; well rounded, as wide as long. 
 
 Eyes: The ocular quad is somewhat longer than the greatest width; the front wider 
 and more elevated than the rear. (Fig. :5a.) MF are on tubercles, are separated about 1.75 
 diameter, are slightly longer than MR, which are separated about or less than one diame- 
 ter. MF distant from SF about 1.5 their intervening space. MR from SR about two 
 alignments. The side eyes are on tubercles, are divided by more than a radius; SR 
 slightly smaller than SF, and placed well behind but a little to the side. The front row 
 is slightly recurved, the rear row slightly procurved ; MF from margin of clypeus about 
 two diameters. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3 ; uniform light orange yellow, the tips of the terminal joints alone 
 having narrow darker annuli ; not heavily pubescent, rather sparsely provided with short 
 dark spines. Palps colored and armed as the legs ; mandibles conical, color orange yellow. 
 
 Abdomen : Well arched, oval, broadest at the base, tapering to the distal spinnerets; 
 color yellow, folium widest anteriorly, a white median patch on the basal front, mottled 
 white and rosy centre and brownish indentations ; sloping bands of alternate white and 
 orange mark the sides. The venter has a somewhat triangular patch of black or dark 
 brown (3b), nearly surrounded by a band of yellow widest at the spinnerets. Two lunettes 
 of yellow color arc on either side of the base of the spinnerets. The epigynum (3c) has a 
 well defined scapus, flattened, of almost equal width throughout, and slightly 6pooned at 
 the tip. 
 
 Male: 7 mm. long; in color and markings resembling the female. The legs are uni- 
 form dark orange yellow, more heavily armored than female with brown spines and gray 
 bristles. Tibia-II is not swollen, has no special clasping spines, but numerous long brown 
 spines symmetrically arranged in rows. Tibia-I is similarly armed. The palpal digit, 3d, 
 somewhat resembles that of K. patagiata. 
 
 DisTRimnioN : New York ; I have two immature females from Ithaca, N. Y. (Mr. N. 
 Ranks), and a mature male, and female lacking one moult of maturity taken by me at Alex- 
 andria Bay on the St. Lawrence River. 1 
 
 No. 12. Epeira placida Hentz.' Plate IV., Figs. 4, 4a, 5, 5a. 
 
 1847. Epeira placida, Hentz J. B. S., v., 475 ; Sp. U. S., p. 115, xiii., 12. 
 
 1884. Epeira placida, Kmekton .... N. E. Ep., 31(5, xxxiv., 2; xxxvi., 10-13. 
 
 Female: This beautiful spider is one of the smallest of our indigenous Epeira. Among 
 numerous specimens I have only one that equals 4 mm. in length. It is strongly marked, 
 especially upon the abdomen, where the colors are white or whitish yellow, with a prom- 
 inent, blackish brown median band. Total length, 3 mm. ; abdomen, 2.5 mm. long by 1.5 
 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 1.5 nun. long, 1 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Cordate, the corselet rounded at the edges, rather high, pitched 
 sharply backward, the head gradually depressed to the face, the fosse a longitudinal slit; 
 in these features resembling E. forata, and differing from typical Epeira. The color yel- 
 low or dark yellow, with a broad median bund of brown or blackish brown, widest at 
 the eyes; the skin glossy, slightly pubescent, with grayish hairs upon the sides of the caput; 
 sternum shield shape, acute at the apex, wide at the base, brown or blackish brown ; at 
 the margins a broad, yellow median band; the labium short, triangular; the maxilla; as 
 wide or nearly as wide as long, sharply truncated at the tips ; color of labium and maxilhe 
 yellowish brown. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad upon a Squarish eminence projecting in front, somewhat longer than 
 wide ; the width in front and behind nearly the same, but slightly greater in front ; the 
 
 1 In reviewing this description since preparation of plates I am inclined to think the above a 
 small varietal form of Epeira marmorea. 
 
154 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR Sl'INNINGWORK. 
 
 eyes not greatly differing in size; MF removed about 1.3 diameter; MR about one diameter; 
 side eyes upon tubercles ; SF removed from MF by a space not greater than, and scarcely 
 a6 great as that which separates MF, thus dffirmg entirely from Ike eyen of the genus Epeira ; 
 the space between SR and MR is at least twice the interval between MR, and about equals 
 the distance between MF ; all the eyes are upon black bases, giving them a blackish appear- 
 ance; the clypeus is about the height of one diameter of MF; the front row is slightly 
 recurved, the rear row procurved. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; stout, yellow, with brown annuli at the tips ; the spines compara- 
 tively few and very long ; the palps are colored and armored as the legs ; mandibles long, 
 conical, somewhat widened at the tips ; yellowish brown in color. 
 
 Abdomen : Ovate, decidedly narrower in front than behind, differing therein from 
 typical Epeira, and widest about two-thirds the distance from the front; the central pat- 
 tern is a bottle shaped figure, with undulating edges, being blackish brown, the centre a 
 lighter brown or yellowish hue ; on either side are irregular borders of white, then follows 
 a light band of yellowish brown, then another white, and so to the sides, which are dark 
 brown ; the whole surface is beautifully reticulated ; the dorsum is highly arched, almost a 
 semicircle ; the spinnerets are distal ; the venter a brown patch, flanked on either side by a 
 white or yellowish white space, the spinnerets being black, with dark brown bases, and a 
 white patch on either side ; the epigynum (Fig. 4a) has a light colored scapus, somewhat 
 convoluted, with a wide, rounded, spoon shaped tip ; the portula; on either side are strong, 
 brown, bowl shaped objects. 1 
 
 Male: Fig. 5. Little more than 2 mm. long, colored and marked much like the female. 
 One specimen in hand has the angular point of the dorsal folium much darker in color, giving 
 the appearance of rows of black spots, symmetrically arranged on either side. The same 
 markings may be seen in a number of females. The legs are a uniform yellow ; tibia-II 
 without any special clasping spines upon the legs, with a few very long ones, all of dark 
 yellow color. 
 
 Distribution : I have specimens from New England, New Jersey, North Carolina, 
 Georgia, and from as far north as Wisconsin. It has been located in Florida, and probably 
 inhabits the Western and Northern United States as far west as Mississippi, and may be 
 found beyond. 
 
 No. 13. Epeira foliata Hentz. Plate IV., Figs. 7, 8, 8a. 
 
 1847. Epeira foliata, Hentz J. B. S., v., 475; Sp. U. S., xiii., 14; pi. xviii., 50. 
 
 1884. Epeira foliata, Emebton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 318, xxxvii., 6-10. 
 1889. Epeira folifera, Marx Catalogue, p. 545. 
 
 Female: Total length, 6 mm.; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 2.75 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 nearly 2.5 mm. long, 1.75 mm. wide. The general colors (in alcohol) are brownish yellow 
 or pale brown for the fore part of the body. Mr. Emerton describes this part as grayish or 
 greenish yellow, darker toward the end of the joints, the first and second legs being darker 
 and with dark rings in the middle of the tibia and tarsus. The abdomen is grayish or 
 olive yellow, relieved by brown or red longitudinal stripes. Dr. Marx, in his catalogue, 
 names this species E. folifera, on the grounds (Note 17) that llentz's name of " foliata " had 
 been previously appropriated by Walckenaer for E. cornuta; but as Walckenaer's name is 
 a synonym, and is not retained by araneologists for the species to which it is affixed, 
 Hentz's name must be regarded as the true one for this species. The species differs from 
 the typical Epeira in having both eye, rows jnocurved, and further in the subcorneal shape of 
 the cephalothorax. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Cordate, peaked and high in tl*e middle, sloping sharply back to the 
 indented base: the fosse a deep longitudinal indentation; cephalic suture distinct; caput 
 depressed, somewhat arched at the base ; color yellow, covered with pubescence, sloping to 
 
 1 The base of the scapus in the figure is drawn too broad. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 155 
 
 the face. Sternum cordate, inclined to rectangular, raised in the middle, with sternal cones, 
 slightly pubescent, yellow ; labium subtriangular, though rectangular at the base ; maxilla? 
 but little longer than wide, triangular at the tip, dark yellow, as is also the labium. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad upon a rectangular eminence, most prominent behind ; the front 
 somewhat wider than the rear, and the side about equal to the front, MF separated by 
 about two diameters; SR, which are somewhat larger and yellow in color, by about 1.5 
 diameter. Side eyes are on tubercles; SF somewhat larger; separated by less than a 
 radius. MF separated from SF by 1.3 the area thereof, or 1.5 the intervening space. The 
 space between MR and SR is much greater. The margin of the clypeus is removed from 
 MF by two or more diameters, the central eminence coming close up to the margin. The 
 front row is somewhat procurved ; the rear row, which is the longer, is much procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; yellow, with slight annuli at the tips of the tibiae; provided with 
 yellowish white bristles and hairs, and yellow spines, which are numerous underneath the 
 femora, especially of legs-I and II. The palps are yellow, and armored as the legs. The 
 mandibles are long, conical, somewhat separated at the tips, pubescent, and thickly hirsute 
 on the inner edges. 
 
 Abdomen : A triangular ovate widest at the base, narrowing somewhat to the apex ; 
 the spinnerets distal; dorsum arched; the folium a simple triangular pattern, with undula- 
 ting margins; colors light pea green, shaded with yellow to yellowish white and reddish 
 marginal and longitudinal lines ; the venter a broad, yellowish brown patch, cretaceous, 
 extending upward on the sides; the whole abdomen covered with soft yellow hairs; the 
 spinnerets yellow, surrounded by a blackish base. The epigynum presents a semicircular 
 atriolum, brown, glossy, rugose, from which extends a short, chitinous scapus, like the 
 bowl of a spoon. 
 
 Male: Fig. 8, 8a; 5 mm. long. In color and markings quite similar to the female. 
 The annuli of the legs appear to be darker; tibia-II is curved, and thickened at the 
 middle and toward the base ; provided from the middle to the apex with a series of strong 
 dark brown spines about seven in number, of which one underneath is much longer, 
 having nearly the length of half the joint, and placed upon an elevated base. Under- 
 neath the femora is a row of six or more acute, brown, erect spines. The humeral joint of 
 the palps is as long as or longer than the three terminal joints, of which the cubital is 
 globose, armed with long spines; the radial is bilabed; the digital is rounded, corneous, 
 yellowish brown, the embolus being wide, bifid, or strongly notched at the tip, presenting 
 at once a prominent characteristic. The legs are stout at the femora, but much diminished 
 in size at the metatarsus and tarsus. 
 
 Distribution : I have from Mr. Thomas Gentry one female in a collection from 
 North Carolina and Georgia. Hentz described it from Alabama, Emerton from New 
 England, and Dr. Marx has examples from Washington, D. C., Florida, Savannah, Ga., 
 New York, Columbus, and Texas. It is thus distributed along the entire Atlantic Coast, 
 and probably throughout all the Gulf States as far as Texas. Its western distribution has 
 not been determined, though it will probably be found as far west as the American Plains. 
 
 No. 1 4. Epeira balaustina McCook. Plate IV., Figs. 2, 2a, 2b, 2c. 
 
 1880. Epeira balaustina, McCook . . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., p. 198. 
 1889. Epeira balaustina, Marx .... Catalogue. 
 
 Female: Total length, 1(> mm.; abdomen, 9 mm. long, 7 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 7 mm. long, 5 mm. wide; width of face, 2 mm. The general colors are for the abdomen 
 yellow, with black stripes and spots ; cephalothorax, orange red ; legs, orange and black. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet rounded, high at the centre ; head at the fosse elevated and 
 sloping to the front, with little decrease of width ; color brown, intermingled with orange ; 
 in one species this color is dark orange brown; skin glossy, and heavily clothed on the 
 sides and head with long gray bristles. Sternum cordate, dark orange brown, covered 
 along the margins with white bristles, higher in the centre, and about as wide as long; 
 
156 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 labium subtriangular, and, like the maxillfe, dark brown, with yellow tips; mandibles 
 colored as the cephalothorax, dark towards the fang, at which point also they narrow on 
 the inside ; clothed with white bristles. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad, on a rounded prominence (Fig. 2b); MF decidedly larger than 
 MR, separated by about 1.5 diameter; at the same distance from the margin of the clypeus ; 
 length of the quad about equal to the front, the rear narrowest; MR separated by about 
 their diameter. Side eyes upon tubercles, but hardly so pronounced relatively as the 
 central prominence. SF the larger; the two scarcely contingent. Clypeus 1.5 diameter; 
 MF high ; the front row is slightly recurved, almost aligned, and shorter than the rear row, 
 which is slightly proeurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; moderately stout, heavily clothed with white bristles, and at points 
 with yellowish curved hairs, and provided with numerous strong white spines, set in dark 
 and well elevated sockets ; color, orange brown ; the femora somewhat darker, or even 
 blackish. Palps like the legs, 'heavily armed with spines and bristles. One specimen of the 
 same species has bright orange legs, without decided annuli, but the femora of first, second, 
 and fourth legs marked with black bands, which cover throe-fourths of the surface of the 
 first two and one-half of the fourth pair; the femur of third leg is without the dark 
 bands, but has a slight median annulus. 
 
 Abdomen: Subtriangular in shape, longer than broad, arched upon the dorsum, but 
 somewhat flattened upon the summit and rounding to the spinnerets, which are distal. It is 
 heavily clothed with simple white bristles with brown pits, which are clustered more closely 
 in a bushy tuft around the base; numerous smaller curved bristles of dark color are scat- 
 tered over the entire dorsal surface ; between these larger white ones and on the sides, 
 mostly placed together, are golden yellow short curved bristles, which considerably modify 
 the color. On one specimen, from San Domingo, the dorsum is bright yellow, with branch- 
 ing longitudinal lines from the middle to the apex; the sides are marked with yellow.- On 
 the specimen described the abdomen appears to have been a uniform yellow color, with a 
 darker cordate band or folium occupying the greater part of the dorsum. The venter 
 (2a, 2c) is a broad subtriangular patch, shaped like an old fashioned chapeau, of yellow or 
 yellowish color, entirely girdled by an irregular ribbon of yellowish white; on the chapeau 
 six dark or yellow spots are symmetrically arranged on either side of the long scapus. The 
 venter, like the rest of the spider, is covered with numerous bristles and bristlelike hairs ; 
 along the edge of the gills these stand thickly and are white. Spinnerets dark orange ; on 
 a specimen from Florida, bright orange. The epigynum is most remarkable for the length 
 of the scapus (2c), which reaches over the entire venter to the base of the spinnerets; it 
 is narrow and tapers nearly to a point, is without groove or spoon, but exceedingly rugose 
 and with a light line of hairs along the median of the lower surface. The vulval porch is 
 scarcely wider than the base of the scapus, and the portuhe are not exposed to view. In 
 only one specimen (Florida) is this organ preserved intact, in two others it is broken off. 
 For this reason, in the description of this spider, as first given in the Proceedings of the 
 Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, I erred concerning the form of the epigynum 
 by describing the species from examples from which the long scapus had been broken off. 
 The fourth specimen, which I subsequently found, was in perfect condition, and thus permits 
 me to correct this error. 
 
 Distribution : I have three specimens in my possession, all females; one from Florida 
 (Fig. 2) ; one from San Domingo, collected by the late William II. Gabb ; one from Swan 
 Island, Carribean Sea, from Mr. C. H. Townsend ; a fourth from the latter locality was seat 
 by me to Dr. T. Thorell. From this showing the species would appear to be limited to the 
 Gulf States and the tropical islands along the coast. It will probably be found widely dis- 
 tributed throughout the northern parts of South America. In general form it resembles closely 
 E. ravilla and E. bivariolata, but lacks the circular blisterlike abdominal markings which 
 characterize E. bivariolata. The female specimen marked in the Marx collections E. ravilla, 
 and so recognized by Count Keyserling, lacks about one moult of maturity, and the epigy- 
 num (Plate V., Fig. 7a) is so different in length and structure from that of E. balaustina as 
 drawn (Plate IV., Fig. 2c), that one doubts whether a final moult could overcome the differ- 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 157 
 
 cnce. Should this resemblance prove to be identity, the distribution of the species would 
 be extended, in the United States, to the Rio Grande of Texas, and also into Arizona, 
 and its habitat become the semitropical and tropical parts of North America, including the 
 West Indies; probably also the northernmost South American States. 
 
 No. 15. Epeira carbonaria Koch, L. Plate V., Figs. 1, 2. 
 
 1869. Epeira carbonaria, Kocn, L. . . . Beitr. zur Kentn. den Arachn. Tyrols. Zeitschr. d. 
 
 Ferdinandeums, p. 108. 
 
 1874. Epeira carbonarid, Simon, E. . . Arachn. de France, i., 92. 
 
 1875. Epeira Packardii, Thoreu. . . . Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., xvii., 490. 
 1884. Epeira carbonaria, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 315, pi. xxxiii., 18. 
 
 1892. Epeira carbonaria, Keysermng . Spinnen Amerikas, Epeirida;, p. 204, tab. ix., 151. 
 
 Female: Total length, 14 mm.; abdomen, 10.4 mm. long and 7 mm. wide; cephalo- 
 thorax, 5 mm. long by 4 mm. wide; width at the face, 1.8 mm. 
 
 Cepiialothorax : A rounded oval ; fosse deep ; cephalic suture distinct ; head but lit- 
 tle depressed at the base, rounding to the face; corselet brown, with yellow marginal stripe 
 covered with rather long grayish white hairs, bristlelike at base and along sides of the 
 caput. Head yellow, well covered with long, stiff gray hairs. Sternum shield shape, brown, 
 heavily covered with long, gray bristlelike hairs; labium rather narrow, subtriangular, less 
 than half the height of maxilla;, which are apparently somewhat wider than long, rounded, 
 and yellow like the labium and surrounding coxae. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 18, 16.2, 15.4, 10.7 mm.; stout, strongly annulated, with 
 dark brown rings at tips and middle of tibia and metatarsus ; a brown hue diffused over 
 upper surface of femora; strongly armored with long gray hairs, bristles, and numerous 
 long black spines; palps colored and armed as legs; mandibles strong, curved at bases, yel- 
 low tipped with brown ; slightly pubescent. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a high rounded eminence, which is almost a square, but wider 
 in front than behind; MR oval and decidedly larger than ME; the latter separated by 
 about 1.5 to 2 diameters; MR about one diameter. Side eyes on tubercles, scarcely contin- 
 gent; SR larger than SF, which are separated from MF by at least two and a half times 
 the space that divides the latter. Clypeus high, its margin removed from MF by three 
 and a half to four times a diameter of the latter, or considerably more than intervening 
 space between MF and SF; front row recurved, rear row somewhat procurved. The face 
 around the central eminence is thickly covered with stiff gray bristles which project over 
 the margin. 
 
 Abdomen: A long oval, the dorsal field yellow interspersed with brown; the folium is 
 outlined by thicker semicircular patches of grayish white bristlelike hairs, which heavily 
 cover the entire organ. In the centre is a white herring bone marking with at least five 
 angular projections and indentations symmetrically arranged on either side. This herring 
 bone pattern is chiefly emphasized by the gray hairs, the field beneath being yellow mar- 
 gined with brown. From the middle of the folium downward are arranged symmetrically 
 on either side rows of three circular spots, like buttons. The folium diminishes towards 
 the apex ; sides yellow, interminglcd - with brown amidst gray hairs; spinnerets at the foot 
 of the apical wall which very slightly overhangs them ; color brown, with lighter hue at 
 the bases. The venter is covered with gray hairs over a brownish field, with yellow spots 
 on either side heavily covered with gray hairs. The epigynum (Fig. lb, lc) is long and 
 triangular,' wide at the base and diminishing sharply to a point, upon which is a rounded 
 dot. It is hollowed upon the lower anterior surface and is covered with rows of stiff 
 white hairs. 
 
 Male (Fig. 2) : In color and marking closely resembles the female ; length (two speci- 
 mens), 9 mm., 8 mm. Cephalothorax a longer oval than the female. The legs differ in 
 lacking the decided brown annul i of the female; are heavily armed with spines and 
 
158 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 bristles, double rows of spines are on the under side of the femora, longer and stronger on 
 the sides. Tibia-II is curved, and its apical joint (Fig. 2a) provided with strong, thick, 
 black clasping spines, with several strong ordinary spines; also a decided conical projection 
 or tooth with a corneous tip, which, from the indentation thereon, would appear to be the 
 seat of a strong spine. A strong curved spur marks the apex of coxa-I, next the tro- 
 chanter ; coxa-II has a toothed cone on the middle of the base ; coxa-IV a toothed cone 
 on the base underneath. The abdomen is very heavily covered with bristlelike hairs, 
 which are arranged in a heavy tuft upon the base. The ocular quad appears to be rela- 
 tively a little longer than in the ferifale, presenting thus more the figure of a rectangle 
 than a square. The palpal digit (Fig. 2b) is dark brown, and distinguished by a palm 
 shaped claw projecting from the side outward. 
 
 Distribution : I have a female of this beautiful species from Salt Lake, Utah (Professor 
 O. Howard), and a male from Wisconsin (Professor Peckham), and from California (Mr. 
 Curtis). Dr. Marx has a specimen from the District of Columbia. Professor Packard 
 found a specimen as far north as Labrador. Emerton collected it on Mt. Washington, 
 N. H., where it is common along the large slopes of Bear Rock; and it has been found 
 on Mt. Lincoln, in the Rocky Mountains. It is a European species which prevails among 
 the Alps. 
 
 No. 1 6. Epeira carbonarioides Keyserung. Plate V., Fig 9. 
 
 1892. Epeira carbonarioides, Keyseri.ing. Spinnen Amerikas, Epeiridse, p. 206, tab. x., 152. 
 
 Female : Total length (two specimens), 10 (8) mm. ; abdomen, 5.5 (5.2) mm. long by 4.5 
 (3.6) mm. wide ; cephalothorax, 4.5 (3.2) mm. long by 3 (2.7) mm. wide. Under the above 
 name Count Keyserling has described a species from Western North America which strongly 
 resembles Epeira carbonaria. His description does not distinctly indicate the differences 
 between the two, and at this writing Plate X. of his work upon which this species is 
 figured is not in hand. I am somewhat doubtful whether the integrity of the species can 
 be maintained, having but a single pair, but it is a good variety at least, as indicated by the 
 following differences : In Carbonarioides the ocular quad is slightly wider behind than in 
 front, while in Carbonaria the relative lengths are reversed, the front being, if anything, the 
 wider. The female is not so heavily covered with strong gray bristles as Carbonaria, partic- 
 ularly upon the cephalothorax and around the face, though this may be an individual differ- 
 ence. The brown annuli upon the legs of Carbonarioides are much wider relatively than 
 upon specimens of Carbonaria observed by me; so much so that the joints appear dark 
 brown with narrow yellow annuli, rather than yellow with brown annuli. The epigynum 
 of Carbonarioides, though resembling that of Carbonaria in the single specimen in hand, is 
 much narrower at the base, and, indeed, is relatively smaller throughout. The dorsal folium 
 also differs somewhat, though this may well be an individual difference. In the male the 
 palpal organs appear to show decided difference ; tibia-II of Carbonarioides appears to be 
 relatively longer, not so much thickened at the apex, and scarcely so numerously provided 
 with heavy denticulate spines. The coxse of Carbonarioides, male, are distinguished by 
 strong spurs and cones ; the spurs upon the apical margin next the trochanter of coxte-I, 
 II, III, IV, strongest in I. The cones appear, at the bases of coxa;-I, where they are low 
 down and directed towards coxcc-II ; on II, upon the lower surface, directed downward ; 
 and in the same position on III ; on IV it is low down and directed toward coxte-III. 
 The maxillie are also distinguished by slight protuberances or swellings upon the inner 
 margin. 
 
 ('hi'iialothorax : Corselet a rounded oval, somewhat narrower toward the front; suf- 
 ficiently high ; caput not depressed ; the fosse a semicircular pit ; corselet grooves not prom- 
 inent ; cephalic suture distinct ; the whole a glossy yellowish brown, the caput being yellow ; 
 surface not heavily pubescent, but some gray hairs on the caput (the pubescence in the 
 alcoholic specimen has evidently been partly worn off). The sternum shield shaped, some- 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 159 
 
 what cordate; color dark brown, well covered with hairs, especially on the margin. Labium 
 subtriangular, half as high as maxilla), which are yellowish brown, subtriangular at the 
 base, as is the labium. 
 
 Legs: Order 1, 2, 4, 3; dark yellow, strongly annulated both at tips and middle of the 
 joints, with wide dark brown patches ; the feet black ; armed with black or blackish brown 
 spines and dense white hairs, which are longer upon the bases of the femora and under- 
 neath and inside thereof; palps colored and armed as the legs ; mandibles strong, dark 
 brown, conical. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a high, rounded, brown eminence, the rear manifestly wider than 
 front and equal to sides ; MF smaller than MR and separated by 1.5 to 2 diameters ; MR 
 separated by about 1.8 diameter. Side eyes placed on tubercles, contingent, SF somewhat 
 larger than SR. MF separated from SF by more than their area ; clypeus high, being as 
 much as, or more than, the area of MF, or about three times the diameter of MF ; front 
 row slightly recurved, the longer hind row procurved ; the space between SR and MR equal 
 to about 1.5 the area of MR. The ocular quad is free from hairs, and the long gray hairs 
 which so profusely cover the interspaces of the ocular area in Epeira carbonaria are but 
 slightly represented in the specimen under description. 
 
 Abdomen : A long oval, narrowed at the base as well as apex ; dorsum arched to the 
 spinnerets, which are distal, overhanging the cephalothorax at the base. The ground color is 
 yellow, heavily clothed with white hairs, thickest on the base in front and upon the 
 sides ; the folium is a broad, brown, scalloped band passing from the base, slightly narrow- 
 ing to the apex ; in the centre is a yellow herring bone marking (Plate V., Fig. 9), with a 
 broad arrow at the base and tapering towards the apex; color yellow, modified by the heavy 
 pubescence. The sides are yellowish brown, clothed heavily with white pubescence, which 
 passes down to the venter, where the white hairs are mingled with brown. The ventral 
 band is a rectangular brown patch, with yellow margin and a broad yellow median band ; 
 spinnerets brown. The scapus of the epigynum is tolerably long, of almost equal width for 
 about two-thirds of its length, when it tapers to a point. It is narrower relatively than 
 that of Epeira carbonaria, grooved upon the lower side, and covered with strong white 
 hairs. 
 
 Male : The male differs little in general characteristics from the female ; the head is 
 more attenuated at the face; the color of the cephalic corselet suture is dark grayish 
 brown; the bristlelike hairs upon the abdomen are long and intermingled with numerous 
 black and yellow bristles, the herring bone median pattern is well defined and resembles 
 that of the female. The legs are yellow or yellowish brown, strongly annulated, but not 
 quite so widely as the female. The metatarsi are well provided with spines, which appear 
 also on the under sides, especially of first and second legs. The tibia! of second legs are 
 curved, very little thickened toward the tip, and provided with additional clasping spines, 
 which are strong but not numerous, arranged in two rows. The tip of the joint has about 
 four of these black spines, and on the inside is a strong corneous tooth or notch, which has 
 probably been the base of a long bristle. This part is similar to Epeira carbonaria, but not 
 quite so strongly developed. The tibia about equals in length the metatarsus. 
 
 Distribution : I have seen but one pair of this species apparently identical with that 
 which Count Keyserling has described, and this was collected in Clear Creek County, Col- 
 orado. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 No. 1 7. Epeira bivariolata Cambridge. Plate V., Figs. 5, 6, 5a, 6a. 
 
 1889. Epeira bivariolata, Keys, in lilt. . Marx Catalogue, p. 543. 
 
 1890. Epeira bivariolata, Cambridge . . Biolog. Centrali-Amer., Aran., p. 27, pi. vi., 15. 
 1892. Epeira bivariolata, Keyserling . Spinn. Amerk., iv., Epei., p. 100, tab. v., 74. 
 
 Female: Body length, 11 mm.; abdomen, 7 to 8 mm. long, 7 mm. broad; cephalo- 
 thorax, 5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. The general colors in alcoholic specimens are yellowish 
 brown for fore part of body, and yellow with brown markings for the abdomen. In life, 
 
160 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 according to Cambridge, 1 the falces, legs, and lower part of the abdomen are orange, ap- 
 proaching light burnt sienna; on the abdomen, sharply outlined, bright green, metallic 
 when first caught, bordered anteriorly by a narrow white line, posteriorly by ten black 
 ocellse with clear white margins. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet well rounded ; orange brown ; the head depressed and covered 
 with white hairs. Sternum orange yellow, slightly pubescent, with low sternal cones before 
 coxse-III ; slightly elevated in the centre ; about as wide as long. The labium and maxilla; 
 as in Epeira. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 23.1, 19.8, 17.1, 11.0 mm.; they range in color from light 
 yellow to light brown. The joints are annulated, with reddish brown color; armed with 
 bristles, and rather short spines. Palps as the legs. Mandibles long, conical, widely sepa- 
 rated at the. tips. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded prominence, the sides but little longer than the front 
 (if any), and the latter wider than the rear; the four eyes about equal in size; MF sepa- 
 rated about 1.5 to 2 diameters; MR separated one diameter. MF removed from SF about 
 1.3 alignment; SR from MR about twice their alignment; side eyes propinquate, about 
 equal in size. The front row of eyes is aligned, or but slightly recurved ; the longer 
 rear row procurved ; height of clypeus 2 to 2.5 diameters of MF. 
 
 Abdomen : Almost as wide at the base as long, bluntly pointed in front, forming thus 
 a basal triangle. The dorsum is a rounded yellow triangle (in life green with metallic 
 lustre), in the middle of which is a brown folium scalloped or triangulated at the margin 
 and diminishing to the apex ; a row of brown bristles marks the base, and the dorsum is 
 covered with similar but shorter hairs with brown pits, which modify the color. On the 
 dorsal median, well towards the apex, are two circular prominences, corneous, shining, each 
 about one millimetre in diameter, and separated from each other about three diameters; 
 a light yellowish line girdles their point of union with the abdomen; they appear like 
 blisters upon the surface ; are destitute of hairs. The venter is a broad patch whose margin 
 is yellow, enclosing a subtriangular patch of brown, the whole reticulated ; four brown dots 
 arranged in a square mark the anterior part near the gills ; spinnerets brown, surrounded 
 at their base by a yellow brown band. The epigynum has a long, straight, rugose scapus, 
 narrowing from the base towards the point (Fig. 5a); the base rather flattened, the apex 
 rounded. 
 
 Male : Fig. 6, 6a. About equal in length to the female, or a little longer. Cephalo- 
 thorax, from 5 to 6 mm. long and 4 to 5 mm. broad. The MF eyes are relatively larger 
 than MR and more widely separated than in the female. The palp is marked by a strong 
 boot shaped projection from the digital joint. (Fig. Ca.) The cephalothorax is yellowish 
 brown, strongly marked with gray hairs. The patella of the first and second pairs of legs 
 is long and thin; the tibia of the second pair short, curved, and thickened at the end, 
 and strongly armed with two rows of about four each clasping spines, while the metatarsus 
 is also somewhat curved and armed at the base with one very long spine, and a shorter 
 one at the apex. The metatarsus-I is long, thin, and also slightly curved ; a strong bent 
 spur is on coxa-I next the trochanter. The abdomen is longer than broad, oval, of a 
 greenish or olive color (in alcohol), and marked at the base, along the sides towards the 
 apex, with long grayish brown spinous bristles. The specimen in hand appears to want 
 the corneous blisterlike plates in the middle of the apical part, as above described in the 
 female. 
 
 Distribution : Cambridge describes this species from Gautemala; Dr. Marx has an 
 undeveloped female from Utah, one from Texas, a mature male from Florida like the 
 above (which is from Summit Canyon, Utah), hut lacking the dorsal corneous plates. The 
 female above described is from Lake Klamath, Oregon. This would indicate a wide dis- 
 tribution in the subtropical parts of the United States, and indeed of North America; and 
 that the species has found its way northward to Oregon, along the Pacific Coast, and east- 
 ward to the American Plains. (The Marx Collection.) 
 
 1 Biologia Centrali-Americana, Araneidea, p. 27, pi. vi., 15. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. . 161 
 
 No. 18. Epeira ravilla Kocn, C. Plate V, Figs. 7, 8. 
 
 1845. Epeira ravilla, Koch, C Die Arachnid., xi., p. 73, Fig. 890. 
 
 1889. Epeira ravilla, Marx Catalogue, p. 547. 
 
 Female: Total length, 11 mm.; abdomen, 8 mm. long, 7 wide; cephalothorax, 5 mm. 
 long, 4 wide ; face, 2 mm. wide. General colors, orange yellow and brown for the fore part 
 of the body, and whitish yellow (in alcohol) for abdomen. The specimens here described 
 from Dr. Marx's collection were identified by the late Count Keyserling as Koch's E. ravilla, 
 and after casual examination were drawn and lithographed on the strength of this author- 
 ity along with examples of E. bivariolata Cambridge. Subsequently more careful study has 
 satisfied me that there is no specific difference between these and the specimens recognized 
 by Keyserling as E. bivariolata. I regard it as probable that Koch's E. ravilla and Cam- 
 bridge's E. bivariolata are identical, the peculiar blisterlikc spots on the lower dorsal field 
 having been overlooked by Koch, or being wanting in his type, as is the case in some of 
 Dr. Marx's specimens. However, I retain here the names and figures as originally engraved, 
 and append description. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet well rounded on the sides, truncate and indented at the base ; 
 fosse large and circular ; head quadrate, depressed from the gently arched base, covered with 
 gray bristles ; color dull orange yellow with brown marginal bands, the eye space somewhat 
 lighter hue and mandibles dark brown. Sternum orange, slightly longer than wide, sternal 
 cones distinct, elevated in middle, marginal gray bristles ; labium semicircular, maxilla- 
 gibbous, both dark brown with yellow tips. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad elevated, front width greater than rear and equal to length ; MF 
 somewhat larger than MR; separated 1.5 diameter, MR by less than one diameter. Side eyes 
 propinquate, on decided tubercles, SF a little larger than SR ; MF distant from SF about 1.5 
 their alignment, MR from SR by a greater space ; front row recurved, the longer rear row 
 procurved ; height of clypeus about 2.5 diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3 ; stout, especially I, II; orange yellow; femora-I, II, almost entirely 
 dark brown to blackish, and about half of femur-IV similarly marked ; joints annulated ; 
 well armed with white and yellowish spines and gray bristles and hairs; palps of lighter 
 hue, with bright yellow wings and strong gray bristles. 
 
 Abdomen : Oval, contracted both in front and behind ; dorsum lightly arched on top, 
 rounding thence to the spinnerets directly beneath the high apical wall. The dorsal pat- 
 tern, Fig. 7, and on the anterior base, is a rhoniboidal patch of whitish yellow color, the 
 original hue of which may have been green or bright yellow ; surface with stout white 
 bristles, with raised brow r n sockets. In the median line on the lower part of the dorsal 
 saddle are two circular blisterlikc markings like those in E. bivariolata, separated about two 
 mm., the low r er one smaller than the upper. The sides are yellow, with lateral streakings 
 of dark color. The venter has a chapeau shaped spot of brown surrounded with yellow ; 
 at the orange colored spinnerets and along the sides bordered by brown. The epigynum, 
 Fig. 7a, in the specimen described, probably lacks one moult of maturity ; scapus moder- 
 ately long and pointed. 
 
 Male : Fig. 8 ; resembles the female in color and pattern ; length, 8 mm. ; cephalo- 
 thorax longer and wider relatively than in the female ; fosse a longitudinal depression. 
 The legs have less prominent bands of black on the femora and are strongly annulated 
 throughout; tibia-II much swollen and curved, and armed with stout, brown clasping 
 spines arranged in two rows on the side, and one underneath ; ordinary spines whitish, 
 with brown bases ; metatarsus curved, thin, one stout brown spine on the inside near the 
 base, two near the apex ; patellar joints long and rather thin ; a long brown spur on apex 
 of coxa-I ; the palpal digit is remarkably developed (Fig. 8a), the corneous processes resem- 
 bling those of E. bivariolata. The abdomen clothed at the base with a cluster of long gray 
 bristles; circular blisters on the dorsal apex as in female. 
 
 Distribution : Texas; a male from El Paso, Isleta, Rio Grande. (Marx Collection.) Dr. 
 Marx also locates it in Arizona. It is probably an inhabitant of the entire Pacific Coast, or 
 at least the tropical or semitropical sections. Koch's E. ravilla was from Mexico. 
 
1G2 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORKt 
 
 No. 19. Epeira volucripes Kbybeeumg. Plate VI, 1, 2. 
 
 1884. Epeira volucripes, Keyserling . . Verb. d. z. b. Ges. Wien., p. 528, pi. 13, Fig. 27. 
 1892. Epeira volucripes, Keyserling . . Spin. Amer. Epeir., p. 199, tab. ix., 147. 
 
 Female : General colors dark yellow and brown for tbe fore part ; on the abdomen 
 yellow, with blackish to brown markings. Total length (two specimens), 11 (9.5) mm.; 
 cephalothorax, 4 (3.5) mm. long, 3.5 (3) mm. wide; head, 2 (1.3) mm. wide; abdomen, 
 8 (6.5) mm. long, 7 (6.2) mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet a rounded oval ; brown, with lighter tints on caput and 
 summit of corselet; well clothed with white hairs. Sternum cordate, as wide as long; 
 color brownish yellow, with a bright yellow median band ; lip and maxillae brown, tipped 
 with pale yellow. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on an eminence projecting forward; front as wide as long, and 
 wider than rear; MF separated about 1.5 diameter; MR smaller than MF, and separated 
 less than one diameter; SF from MF about 1.8 their alignment; side eyes on tubercles; SF 
 larger than SR, tbe latter placed well to the sides, and marked with strong gray eyebrows; 
 front row very little recurved, the longer rear row procurved. Clypeus about two diameters 
 MF high ; grayish bristles on the margin. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; yellow, with brown apical and median annuli; thickly covered with 
 gray bristles and hairs, interspersed with strong brown and yellow spines ; palps colored 
 and armed as the legs. Mandibles brown, conical, rounded at the base, divergent at tips. 
 
 Abdomen : Subtriangular ; widest at the base ; somewhat arched to the distal spinnerets. 
 The dorsal base overhangs the cephalothorax, is pale yellow, heavily clothed with gray 
 hairs; the folium has a yellow median herring bone pattern, flanked by lunettes of black 
 or blackish brown in two rows approximated towards the apex. The folium is not unlike 
 that of E. arabesca in its general form. The dorsal color extends over the sides in irregular 
 loops, margined by a scalloped black band that extends underneath. Tbe venter is a broad 
 squarish band of yellowish brown, with two bright spots near the spinnerets and blackish 
 color within. The epigynum is rather short for such a large species, subtriangular, wide at 
 the base, spooned at the somewhat rounded top. (Plate VI., Figs, la, lb.) 
 
 Male: Plate VI., Figs. 2, 2a. 7.5 mm. long; in general color and markings resembles 
 the female. The abdomen is somewhat lighter in color; tibia-II is not especially developed 
 in size or in clasping armature, being simply marked by several long strong spines, one 
 of which, on the inside, is longer and stronger than the others, and placed upon a slight 
 process; the joint is also somewhat bent. 
 
 Distribution: Savannah, Ga. (Marx Collection.) Keyserling reports the species from 
 New Hampshire and Tennessee ; and from Haiti and Panama, Central America. This 
 indicates an elastic temperament, at once adapted to the rigors of New England and the 
 fervors of the tropics. I believe, however, that the species is not common in northern 
 latitudes, but belongs more especially to the southern fauna. 
 
 No. 20. Epeira tranquilla, new species. 1 Plate VI, Figs. 3, 3a. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4 mm.; abdomen, 2.5 mm. long, 2.5 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 2 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide, and 1 mm. wide at the face. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Cordate ; corselet rounded at sides, high in the middle, shelving 
 behind ; head much depressed, sparingly clothed with gray pubescence ; corselet grooves 
 rather distinct; cephalic suture distinct; color yellow, with brownish flecks along the mar- 
 gins and in the sutures ; pubescence gray ; the hairs thick on the caput, particularly at the 
 sides, where they form strong gray eyebrows. Sternum shield shaped, wide at the base, 
 where it is rather squarely truncate; obtusely triangular at the apex; color yellow, with 
 darker marks on the margin and an interrupted median band of brownish yellow ; labium 
 
 1 In his catalogue Dr. Marx refers to this spider as E. Heidmannii, in till, (page 544) ; and again as 
 E. tranquilla Keyserling. in tilt, (page 548). I have hence adopted the name Tranquilla. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 103 
 
 triangular, wide, more than half as long as maxilla ; base brown, with a touch of bright 
 yellow in the centre ; tips yellow ; maxillae gibbous, as wide, or nearly as wide, as long. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on an eminence higher before ; the front slightly wider than the 
 rear, and somewhat narrower than sides ; eyes about equal in size ; MF separated by about 
 1.5 diameter; MR by about one diameter; side eyes on tubercles, barely contingent, sub- 
 equal; the space between SF and MF about equals the area of the latter, or 1.5 their inter- 
 vening space ; the distance between SR and MR is much greater ; the clypeus has the 
 height of about 1.3 diameter MF, and is marked by rows of long whitish hairs, which are 
 also found in the eye space ; front row is slightly procurved, almost aligned ; rear row- 
 longer and much procurved. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; color yellow, with dark brown annuli, armed, but not numerously, with 
 blackish spines and yellowish bristles and hairs ; palps similarly colored and armed, but 
 rather lighter yellow ; mandibles dark brown, conical, retreating toward the face, rather long. 
 
 Abdomen : Triangular ovate, widest across the shoulders, narrowing somewhat toward 
 the front and apex; the folium is a broad blanket of yellowish white, which covers the 
 entire dorsal field, extending up in a triangular form toward the front, the apex almost 
 touching the cephalothorax on either side ; the base is marked with dark brows ; the sur- 
 face is reticulated, and rather sparsely covered with short gray hairs ; the ventral pattern is 
 a mottled dark brown figure, with an interrupted band of yellow on either side ; the 
 epigynum (Fig. 3a) has a short wide scapus, rounded at the tip, where it is spooned, the 
 channel extending along the lower surface of the scapus; the atriolum is rather high, the 
 portuhe on either side prominent. 
 
 Distribution : District of Columbia, one specimen only. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 No. 21. Epeira punctigera Doi.escu.u.i.. Plate VI, Figs. 4, 4a-b. 
 
 1857. Epeira punctigera, Dolesciiall . Tweede Bijdrage t. d. Kenn. d. Arac. Ind. Arch. 
 
 1864. Epeira trianguta, Keyseri.ino . . Isis, Dresden, Beschreib. Orbit., p. 98, tab. v., 12-14. 
 
 1871. Epeira indigatrix, Koch, L. . . . Arach. Austral., p. 66, pi. v., 8-9. 
 
 1877. Epeira vatia, Thorbll Studi I., Ragni di Selebes, p. 382-384. 
 
 1878. Epeira punctigera, Tiioreli. . . . Studi II., Ragni di Amboina, p. 59. 
 
 1881. Epeira punctigera, Tiiorell . . . Studi sui Rag. Malesi e Papuani, p. 104, var. vatia. 
 
 1889. Epeira punctigera, Marx .... Catalogue, 547. 
 
 1892. Epeira punctigera, Keyserung . . Spin. Auaer. Epeir., p. 136, pi. vii., 100. 
 
 Female: Rather uniform in color, the dorsum a brighter yellow or whitish, the colors 
 evidently faded in alcohol. Total length, 9 mm. ; cephalothorax, 4 mm. long, 3.5 mm. wide ; 
 abdomen, 5 mm. long, 4 mm. wide. Keyserling describes a female 11.2 mm. long, with an 
 abdomen 8 mm. long by 7.2 mm. wide. ■ 
 
 Cei'iialotiiorax : The corselet well rounded at margin, rather high, and peaked at the 
 crest ; depressed and wide at the face ; fosse not deep, being rather a slit upon the sloping 
 posterior side ; cephalic suture distinct ; corselet grooves rather indistinct ; color dark uniform 
 yellow, with a yellowish patch at the caput, the base covered with whitish yellow hairs; 
 sternum yellow, with a broad lighter yellow median band ; shield shaped, triangular at 
 the apex, compressed in the middle ; sternal cones distinct before eoxpe-I, III ; strong yellow- 
 hairs ; labium large, subtriangular ; maxillie wide as long, subtriangular at tips, which are 
 inclined towards each other; sparsely covered with curved dark bristles. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on high rounded eminence, front as wide as sides, narrowest 
 behind; the four eyes about equal, and on black rings; MF separated by nearly two diame- 
 ters; MR by about one; side eyes on not very prominent tubercles, barely contingent; SF 
 larger than SR ; clypeus height about 2.5 diameter MF ; front row slightly recurved, almost 
 aligned, the rear row longer and procurved ; space between SF and MF equals at least 1.5 
 area of MF; space between SR and MR more than twice the area of MR. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, well clothed with pubescence ; strong yellow spines, with brown- 
 ish bases; underneath each femur is a single row of long bristlelike spines, and tufts of 
 
164 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK 
 
 spinous bristles on the coxa:; color yellow, slightly tipped at joints with brown ; palps marked 
 and armed as legs, but apparently without annuli ; mandibles articulated in facial plane, 
 conical ; separated at the tips, margins provided with long spinous bristles of yellow color. 
 
 Abdomen : Triangular ovate on top, widest at base ; dorsum but slightly arched in the 
 specimen in hand; the dorsal folium consists of an anchorlike figure with double flukes; 
 the muscular pits strongly marked ; at the margins touched with brown or blackish color ; 
 quadruple lines branch from the middle towards the apex, and darkish lateral lines encom- 
 pass the sides, which are yellow; pubescence on the dorsum rather scant, but on the base 
 a tuft of whitish gray bristles, around which are clustered whitish or yellow hairs. The 
 ventral pattern a bluntly triangular patch, narrowing towards the yellow spinnerets, which 
 it encompasses ; at either corner are broad circular or irregular patches of yellow or yellow- 
 ish white; the base of spinnerets surrounded by an interrupted ring of yellow patches, 
 especially marked with golden yellow hairs, deepening at places into brown ; the epigynum 
 (Fig. 4a) has a prominent scapus, which is widest at the base, having a sort of pedestal of 
 yellow color, and enlarged at the middle point, where the channel begins, and again widen- 
 ing towards the tip, which is rounded and spooned ; it is bent venterward, the color deep 
 brown and glossy. 
 
 Male: I have no male from which to describe, and have drawn the figure of the male 
 palp (4b) from a manuscript drawing of Count Keyserling. 
 
 Distribution : Fort Bridger, Wyoming ; Washington State. (Marx Collection.) If we 
 accept this species as entirely identical with E. punctigera of Doleschall, it is of wide dis- 
 tribution throughout the world, including the Mauritius (Keyserling) ; Australia, where Koch 
 describes it, and the Malasian Islands, where it is described by Thorell. It is found only 
 on our western coast, which may indicate that its distribution from the east to the west 
 has been by commerce across the Pacific Ocean, in which respect it resembles E. Theisii. 
 
 No. 22. Epeira mormon Keyserling. Plate VI, Figs. 5, 5a. 
 
 1882. Epeira mormon, Marx in litl. . . Catalogue, p. 546. 
 
 1892. Eprira mormon, Keyserling . . . Spinn. Amerik., iv. Epeir., p. 182, pi. ix., 134. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5.5 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long, 1.7 mm. wide, narrowing 
 to 1 mm. at the face ; abdomen, 3.5 mm. long, 2.5 mm. wide. The general colors of this 
 species are uniform yellow in the fore part, with brown and brownish yellow and cretaceous 
 longitudinal stripes upon the abdomen. 
 
 Cei'Halotiiorax : Cordate, high in the middle, which is peaked, sloping backward 
 sharply to the truncate base; corselet grooves distinct; cephalic suture deeply marked; color 
 yellowish brown, with brown median band from the fosse to the face; skin glossy, slightly 
 pubescent; sternum black or blackish brown, heart shaped, deeply indented at the edges; 
 sternal cones marked; high in the middle, pubescent; labium subtriangular, large; maxilla? 
 as wide as or wider than long; obtusely triangular at the -tips, which are yellow, while the 
 base is brown in color, thus resembling the labium. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a low eminence, most prominent before ; decidedly wider in 
 front than behind, and the sides rather longer than the front. MF somewhat larger than 
 MR, separated by about 1.5 diameter ; MR propinquate, separated by less than a radius. 
 Side eyes on very slight tubercles, propinquate, not greatly differing in size. MF separated 
 from SF by a space about equal to their area, or 1.3 times the intervening space. The face 
 is yellow, the vertex evenly rounded. The clypeus has a height about 1.5 or more diameter 
 MF. The front row is slightly recurved, the longer rear row slightly procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; uniform yellow, with a slight darkening at some of the tips; 
 pubescence and bristles yellow- ; well provided with acutely yellowish spines, with rows of 
 especial strength underneath the femora. 
 
 Abdomen : A long oval, rounded both at base and apex ; color yellow ; the arched 
 dorsum traversed by a folium of blackish brown, with indented margins that inclose a field 
 traversed by three longitudinal stripes of lighter brown. Short gray hairs cover the skin, 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 165 
 
 and are tufted at the base, which well overhangs the cephalothorax. The ventral pattern 
 is a broad blackish band, with lighter hues in the middle, which encompasses the spin- 
 nerets, which are of lighter color, and decidedly overhung by the rounded apical wall. The 
 epigynum (Fig. 5a) has a short subtriangular scapus, which extends barely beyond the 
 genital cleft, and is flanked on either side by a slight bowl shaped projection apparently 
 marking the outer walls of the portulae. 
 
 Distribution: District of Columbia; Utah. I have seen but two specimens, which are 
 in Dr. Marx's collection, but the habitat of these indicates a wide distribution from the 
 Atlantic Coast to the Rocky Mountains. 
 
 No. 23. Epeira reptilis, new species. Plate VI, Figs. 6, 6a-c. 
 
 1889. Epeira reptilis, Marx in lilt. . . . Catalogue, p. 547. 
 
 Male: Total length, 4 mm.; cephalothorax, about 2 mm. long, 1.5 mm. broad; abdo- 
 men, about 2.3 mm. long, 1.4 mm. broad. The color is a bright yellow to orange, with a 
 lateral longitudinal band of yellow on the caput, and lateral bands along the cephalic 
 grooves; fosse a deep longitudinal cleft; cephalic suture sufficiently distinct; slightly 
 pubescent. The sternum (Fig. Gb) cordate, longer than broad, yellowish brown color. 
 Labium, tip triangular, compressed at the base ; maxilla; somewhat longer than wide, 
 obtusely triangular at tip. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded elevation, dark brown in color, the eyes themselves 
 black. The quad wider in front than rear, the sides longer than either; eyes subequal; 
 MF separated by 1.5 diameter, MR by about 1. Side eyes on slight tubercles, contingent, 
 about equal in size. MF removed from SF by about. 1.3 their area, or nearly twice their 
 intervening space ; front row recurved, the longer rear row slightly procurved ; clypeus about 
 two diameters MF in height. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; yellow or reddish brown, well armored with long brownish spines ; 
 tibia-II without any special thickening or clasping armature, except a few additional 
 ordinary spines towards the tip, which are also found upon tibia-I. The palpal digit is 
 represented at Fig. 6c. 
 
 Abdomen: A long oval, rounded at the base and apex, of about equal width through- 
 out; colors yellow, with a silvery gloss. A light folium, almost obliterated in alcohol, 
 passes along near the distinctly marked muscular indentations, and on the apical part of 
 the dorsum are two black longitudinal patches, passing to the apex. The surface is 
 pubescent. The ventral pattern is a black or blackish brown band, which encompasses the 
 spinnerets, of like color, and which are somewhat overhung by the abdomen. The entire 
 skin of this spider is glossy. 
 
 Distribution: Crescent City, Fla. The female of this species has not been taken. 
 (Marx Collection.) 
 
 No. 24. Epeira forata, new species. Plate VI, Figs. 7, 12. 
 
 1889. Epeira forata, Marx w lilt. . . Catalogue, p. 545 (KeySerling in lilt.). 
 1889. Larinia nigri/oliata, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 550. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long, 1.3 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 4 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. General colors of fore part of body uniform yellow; abdomen 
 oretiuvous white, with a black folium. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Cordate, high in the middle, sloping backward to the base of the 
 corselet; the fosse a deep conical pit; corselet grooves tolerably distinct; cephalic suture 
 distinct; caput narrow at base, rounded, smooth, but much depressed to the wide face. 
 Sternum shield shape, yellow, slightly pubescent, flat in the middle; skin glossy; only a few 
 whitish-yellow bristlelike hairs; labium subtriangular, ' about half the height of maxilla-, 
 which are gibbous, somewhat longer than wide, yellow, with a few bristlelike hairs thereon. 
 
1G6 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNING WORK. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded eminence, and nearly a square in form, but widest 
 in front (Fig. 7b) ; eyes not greatly different in size, but MR appear somewhat the larger ; 
 MF separated by about 1.5 to 2 diameters, and MR about 1.5 or a little less; the side eyes 
 on slight tubercles; separated by about a radius; SF somewhat larger than SR; MF sepa- 
 rated from SF by about the area of the former, or 1.5 the dividing interval thereof; SR 
 separated from MR by at least 1.3 the space between SF and MF; clypeus height about 1.5 
 diameter MF; the front row is almost aligned, the rear row longer and procurved. 
 
 Legs: Uniform yellow; sufficiently stout, especially at the femora; armed tolerably 
 freely with bristles and sparingly with long, thin, yellow spines; palps colored and armed 
 as legs; mandibles conical, rather long, yellow, and flecked with yellowish brown. 
 
 Abdomen: Triangular ovate, the base rounded, high, and overhanging the corselet; the 
 dorsum arched to the distal spinnerets; there are no shoulder humps, but across the base 
 the dorsum is widened, forming from that point toward the apex an isosceles triangle, of 
 which the field is white, and the folium a similar triangle of black, mottled with white 
 spots ; a semicircular patch of black marks the upper part of the base, on which are several 
 transverse curved rows of white spots, from the centre of which issue bristlelike hairs; 
 similar hairs are distributed over the dorsal field; the whole surface of the abdomen is 
 beautifully reticulated ; the sides are white, as is also the venter ; the spinnerets are amber 
 yellow, surrounded at the base with an irregular border of black. The epigynum (Fig. 7c) 
 has the general characteristics of that of E. miniate (scutulata), the scapus being long, 
 though greatly convoluted, sometimes wrinkled, of uniform width throughout, terminating 
 in a deep wide bowl ; the whole light yellow ; the portula; on either side are rounded and 
 hollow bowls of glossy dark brown, open toward the genital cleft, toward which also they 
 narrow ; at the part next the scapus and on either side thereof issues a stout, curved horn 
 of similar color and character. 
 
 Male: Plate VI., Fig. 12. Resembles the female in color and substantially in markings; 
 the cephalothorax is cordate, indented at the base, where it is relatively wider than the 
 female, and narrower at the face; the cephalothorax is smooth and glossy; the fosse a 
 longitudinal indented slit; the legs are uniform yellow in color, without any special clasping 
 apparatus, and with only a few long, strong yellowish brown spines upon the tip of legs-I 
 and II, which arc arranged in about four rows, both above and beneath ; the maxilhe are 
 relatively longer and feebler than in the female, being much narrower at the tips and con- 
 cave on the front. The ocular quad is quite prominent, much projecting in front, where it 
 is decidedly wider than behind, the front eyes being upon black bases, the side eyes upon 
 tubercles ; SF somewhat larger than SR. The humeral joint of the palps is long, the radial 
 and cubital joints short; the digital rounded; the cymbium yellow, covered with bristles, 
 with two long, strong, curved spines thereon ; the embolus much curved. (Fig. 12a.) Length 
 of abdomen, 3 mm. ; cephalothorax about the same. The abdomen is a long oval, narrow at 
 the apex, the folium being black, broadest at the base, where there are two circular spots 
 like eyes in the midst of the black. 
 
 Pis-rmm 'tiox: Santa Rosa, Cal. (The Marx Collection.) 
 
 No. 25. Epeira Theisii Walckenaer. Plate VI, Figs. 8, 9. 
 
 1841. Epeira Theis, Walckenaer . . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 53, pi. xviii., 4. 
 
 1847. Epeira mangarera, Walckenaer . Ins. Apt., iv., p. 469. 
 
 1863. Epeira Oaxacensis, Kevserling . Neuer Orbit Site. d. Isis, p. 121, pi. v., 15-18. 
 
 1871. Epeira mangareva, Koch, L. . . Arach. Austral., p. 85, pi. vii., 4, 5. 
 
 1877. Epeira mangareva, Thorell . . . Studi, I., Ragni di Selebes, p. 395. 
 
 1878. Epeira triangulifera, Thoreli, . . Studi, II., Ragni di Amboina, p. 65. 
 1878. Epeira mangareva, Thorell . . . Ibid., p. 65. 
 
 1881. Epeira Theimi, Thorell Studi, III., Rag. Melesi e Papuani. Principal form 
 
 E. Theisii, and varieties E. mangareva and E. 
 triangulifera. 
 
 L889. Epiir/t This, Marx Catalogue, p. "vis. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GKNEKA AND SPECIES. 
 
 167 
 
 Female: Two specimens, total length, 8.5 (14.2) mm.; abdomen, 5 (10) mm. long, 2.5 
 (6.9) mm. wide ; cephalothorax, 3.5 (5.5) mm. long, 2.5 (4.2) mm. wide. General colors on the 
 fore part a yellowish brown ; abdomen, yellow. (Fig. 8.) The species is notable for the wide 
 difference in size of its individuals, as may be seen by the two measurements given above. 
 Ckpiialothorax : Corselet rounded at margin, high in centre, fosse long and deep; 
 cephalic suture well marked ; corselet grooves indistinct ; caput somewhat raised from the 
 corselet, but slightly depressed at the face, which is squarish and wide; color uniform 
 yellow, with a dark median longitudinal ribbon from the face along the caput. Sternum 
 slightly longer than wide, with feeble sternal cones; yellow, and lighter cretaceous inter- 
 rupted median band ; lip triangular, about half the length of maxilla;, which are somewhat 
 longer than wide, and subtriangular at tips, which are directed towards one another; color 
 yellowish brown. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad somewhat longer than wide, and of about equal width in front and 
 behind. MF upon slight projecting tubercles, separated by about 1 to 1.3 diameter ; about 
 equal in size to MR, which are separated by about the same distance. Side eyes on 
 tubercles, with a cluster of wide bristles behind them as eyebrows; SF somewhat larger 
 than SR, barely separated ; SF removed from MF about 1.3 their area, or about 2.5 the 
 dividing interval of MF; clypeus low, less than one diameter MF in height. Front row 
 recurved ; rear row longer and procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 4, 2, 3, as follows: 21.1, 19.7, 18.5, 12 mm. Uniform yellow color, abundantly 
 armed with bristles and hairs, and well provided with spines of dark brown color ; palps 
 armed and colored as legs; mandibles long, conical, and not divergent; color of legs. 
 
 Abdomen : A long oval ; the dorsum arched, and somewhat narrower at apex than 
 base ; nearly twice as long as wide ; color of field yellow, with a broad median longitudinal 
 cretaceous band, which is narrowed at the apex, having a ragged marginal border of black, 
 and a median lanceolated band of yellow. Venter with a median yellow band, with yellow r 
 cretaceous border; epigynum (Fig. 8a) has a rather narrow atriolum, out of which rises a 
 stout scapus wide at the base, somewhat constricted at the middle, terminating in a long 
 spoon, widest at the base and rounded at tip, which is dark brown, glossy, chitinous. 
 
 Male: Fig. 9, 9a. In color and markings generally resembles the female, but lighter 
 on the abdomen ; the corselet differs in its decidedly rounded character, which, however> 
 does not appear upon the sternum ; corselet uniform glossy yellowish brown, and some- 
 what, elevated; cephalic suture less distinct than in female; clypeus a little higher than in 
 female, and ocular quad more evidently slightly narrowed behind; SF not relatively so 
 widely separated from MF. Legs yellow and darker at joint; tibia-II curved, thickened, 
 with a double row of black clasping spines extending the entire length of the joints on the 
 inside, longer and stouter at the base, and flanked by several ordinary black spines. 
 There is also a double row of spines underneath femur-TI, and a small but feebler arma- 
 ture underneath femur-I ; spines are abundant upon all joints, of a dark or blackish brown 
 color. Coxa-I has next the trochanter a long, strong, brownish spur, curved at the point ; 
 coxa-IV has a conical spur nearer the middle of the joint. 
 
 Distribution : Male and female, San Diego, Cal. (Marx Collection.) There is prob- 
 ably no American spider with wider exotic distribution than this species. It is reported 
 from New Guinea, where Walckenaer first described it; Cape York, Singapore, Amboia, 
 and is found in New Holland. It is thus dispersed throughout the Australian archipelago 
 and the islands of Malasia. It may have secured its lodgment in California by importation 
 from these quarters, but will probably be found in Central and South America. 
 
 No. 26. Epeira juniperi Ekhrton. Plate VI, Figs. 13, 13a-c. 
 
 1884. Epeira juniperi, Emerton . . . . N. E. Ep.. p. 313, xxxiv., 6; xxxvi., 14, 15, 16. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5.5 mm.; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. Specimens 
 obtained from Florida through Dr. George Marx retain their color well in alcohol, the 
 fore part being a light yellow, the abdomen green, with bright yellow spots. 
 
168 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Cepiia[.(hiioi:a\ : Corselet rounded, sloping sharply behind, rather high in the middle; 
 base of caput on a level with corselet, but depressed in front ; fosse deep ; color in some 
 specimens green, or greenish yellow, in others yellow; sternum shield shape, almost as 
 wide as long, with slight sternal cones, colored, as also labium and maxilla;, pale yellow ; 
 labium triangular; maxilla; gibbous, somewhat longer than wide. 
 
 Eyes : Fig. 13b. Ocular quad on a rounded eminence, the front wider than rear and 
 about the length of sides; MF larger than MR and black; separated by about 1.75 their 
 diameter; MR separated by at least or more than two diameters. Side eyes on separate 
 tubercles whose bases are contingent, and separated by about one diameter, about equal in 
 size; MF from MR about their area, and from margin of clypeus by about 1.5 diameter; 
 front row recurved, rear row slightly procurvcd, and somewhat longer. 
 
 AnnoMKN : A well rounded oval, a little longer than wide, skin reticulated, without 
 shoulder humps, covered rather scantily with long yellowish bristles, color green, witli base 
 bright or grayish yellow. In some specimens the green is more decided, and the yellow 
 shades into green on the dorsal field, base, and sides; no distinct folium marks the dorsum, 
 but a median line of darker green traverses the middle part of the field, from the side and 
 end of which issue brownish lines to the apex. The venter is not distinctly marked, but 
 is covered with green reticulations, as are the sides ; spinnerets distal, yellowish brown ; the 
 epigynum (Fig. 13c) has a long convoluted scapus, brown below the tip, which is an oval 
 bowl ; atriolum wide at base ; semicircular portulse show on each side, from which issue 
 rounded tongues curved like a ram's horn. 
 
 Distribution : New England. Specimens received also from Florida, through Dr. Marx. 
 The species is no doubt distributed along the entire Atlantic Coast, and will probably be 
 found much more widely dispersed. 
 
 No. 27. Epeira "Wittfeldae, new species. 1 Plate VII, Figs. G, 6a-d; 7, 7a-d. 
 
 Female: Total length, 9 mm.; cephalothorax, 4 mm. long, 3 mm. wide; 1.7 at the 
 face ; abdomen, 6 mm. long, 5 mm. wide. This spider in its general characteristics reminds 
 one of E. strix. In its somewhat stout legs, strongly armed with spines, in the head and 
 eyes, the two species are much alike. The dorsum of the abdomen, however, is more 
 roundly arched in E. Wittfeldse, and the epigyna differ. The colors and general forms of 
 the two animals are also different. 
 
 Cephai/Othorax : Cordate, rounded at the sides, indented behind ; smooth and glossy ; 
 sparsely provided with hairs; corselet grooves indistinct; cephalic suture distinct; fosse a 
 longitudinal slit, within a circular pit; color yellow; the caput reddish brown, glossy, not 
 depressed, slightly arched to the whitish face, whose margins just below the lateral eyes 
 drop into a decided dewlap. Sternum shield shape, flat in the middle, with faint sternal 
 cones, slightly pubescent, yellow. Labium wide, rounded at the sides; tip triangular; 
 maxilla; oval, obtusely triangular at tips, inclined toward each other; wider than long; 
 both of these organs yellowish brown. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a dark brown eminence, most prominent in front, where it pro- 
 jects over the clypeus ; rear eyes but little elevated above the facial surface ; the quad is 
 decidedly wider in front than behind (Fig. 6b), and the side about equals front width ; 
 MF larger than MR, separated by about 1.5 diameter, MR but little more than a radius. 
 SF are on blackish tubercles, not greatly differing in size, separated by about a diameter ; 
 SR placed low down upon the face, so that with the four front eyes they appear to constitute 
 an aligned group; MF separated from SF by 2 to 2.5 their intervening space, or 1.3 their 
 area, and MR separated by a much greater relative distance from SR; the forehead is low, 
 almost obliterated ; the clypeus shows but a narrowed space between the margin and the 
 base of the central eminence, the margin being removed about one diameter of MF from 
 the latter; front row slightly recurved, rear row procurved. 
 
 ■Wittfeld; proper name; after the late Miss Anna Wittfeld, of Merrit Island, Florida. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 109 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, comparatively short; uniform orange yellow or yellow, without 
 annuli ; armed copiously with long yellowish white bristles, and rather short brownish 
 spines; palps colored and armored as legs; mandibles dark glossy brown, corresponding 
 with color of face, and strongly curved at the base ; conical, somewhat separated at the 
 tips ; but little pubescent, except on inner edges. 
 
 Abdomen: Ovate; dorsum well arched to spinnerets, which are placed directly under- 
 neath the high apical wall; apex but little if any narrower than base; color yellow or 
 yellowish green, which fades in alcohol to yellow ; dorsal folium limited by an indistinct 
 undulating ribbon ; with a median longitudinal line branching from about the middle ; skin 
 beautifully reticulated and covered quite thickly with short, soft, yellowish hairs; at the 
 sides the greenish yellow color of the dorsum is broken into elongated lobes of dark 
 yellowish brown extending to the venter. The epigynum (Fig. 6c), viewed from the spin- 
 nerets, shows a yellow scapus curved over from the base of the atriolum, like the clasp of 
 a padlock ; viewed from the side (Gd) the scapus is seen to be free at the apex ; the portulse 
 on either side are glossy, blackish brown. 
 
 Male: Fig. 7. Somewhat smaller than female, being 7 mm. long; otherwise similarly 
 marked, but in the specimens in hand the abdominal folium more decidedly marked. Legs 
 uniform orange yellow; tibia-II not thickened, without any special clasping armature, and 
 not more numerously provided with dark brown spines than leg-I ; coxa-I has a marginal 
 spur on the apex; in tlic palps (Figs. 7a, 7b) the digit is globular, the cymbium yellow and 
 covered thickly with yellowish bristles; the embolus a simple curved hook; the radial joint 
 boat shaped, covered with a number of long yellowish bristles ; the cubital joint also short 
 and rounded ; these, like the humeral joint, are uniform yellow in color. 
 
 Distribution: I have collected this specimen in Florida, the only point from which I 
 have specimens. 
 
 No. 28. Epeira Thaddeus Hbntz. Plate VII, Figs. 3, 4, 5. 
 
 1847. Epeira Thaddeus, Hentz J. B. S., Vol. v., p. 473; Id., Sp. U. S., p. 113, 
 
 pi. 13, Fig. 6. 
 1879. Epeira baltimoriensis, Keyserli.m; . N. Spinn. Amer. i., Verb. d. x. b. Ges. Wien, p. 305, 
 
 pi. 4, Fig. 8. 
 1884. Epeira thaddeus, Emebton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 309, pi. 34, Fig. 9. 
 1888. Epeira thaddeus, McCook .... Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 Female: Total length, 7 mm.; abdomen, 6 mm. long, 6 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 3.5 mm. long, 2.3 mm. wide; measurement taken from one of the largest specimens. The 
 color varies from yellow and cretaceous to the most brilliant purple and pink, marking the 
 species as one of the most beautiful of our indigenous spider fauna. The legs vary in color 
 from yellow to orange yellow and to yellowish brown, a variation which also marks the 
 cephalothorax. 
 
 Ckpualothokax: Corselet rounded, truncated, indented at base; dorsum high, arched; 
 fosse distinct; corselet grooves feeble; cephalic suture distinct; color yellow, flecked with 
 brown, slightly pubescent ; head colored as corselet, with dark median band in some speci- 
 mens; caput slopes from the crest, is slightly pubescent, a band of long heirs down the 
 middle ; sternum shield shape, as broad as long, indented at edges, with sternal cones, one 
 in the middle, which is raised; color uniform brown, rather glossy; labium, large, tri- 
 angular, and maxillre broad as long, subtriangular at tip, colored like sternum. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a prominence; front decidedly wider than rear, and about equal 
 to the side in length. Eyes about equal in size ; MF oval, on a black base ; MR round 
 and yellow; MF separated by about 1.5 to 2 diameters; MR by about their radius; side 
 eyes on tubercles, contingent, but equal in size; MF separated from SF by a little more 
 than their area, and from clypeus margin by about one diameter; front row recurved, longer 
 rear row procurvedi 
 
170 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SP1NNINGWORK. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, yellow to orange yellow, with brown annuli at tips of joints; 
 well provided with bristles and hairs, rather sparsely with stout spines; palps yellowish 
 brown, armed as legs; mandibles conical,' little divergent at tips, and, like the face, some- 
 what glossy. 
 
 Abdomen: Globular ovate thickest and widest at the base, arched on dorsum, tapering 
 to distal spinnerets; in gravid females the width is as great as the length; surface retic- 
 ulated ; dorsal field without a folium, but with three or four circular longitudinal patches 
 in the median line ; an irregular band of color traverses the margin ; a deeper color marks 
 the side; the apical half of the dorsum is sometimes marked by median lines of yellow, 
 and has several black spots on either side tapering V shape to the spinnerets. Venter 
 pattern a triangular patch of yello.w, marked with six or eight circular spots symmetrically 
 arranged on either side of the median line. Spinnerets brown ; epigynum (Figs. 3a, 3b, 3c) 
 has a tolerably long, yellow, curved scapus somewhat wrinkled, of nearly equal length 
 throughout, slightly tapering and rounded at the tip. The parmula is a thin, elevated plate, 
 scrolled at the top, placed between it and the spinnerets; this is yellow at the base, brown 
 and glossy at the apex and edges, not quite as long as the scapus. 
 
 Male: Figs. 5, 5a. The males of this species appear to be rather scarce; at least it 
 has proved so in my collecting. They are colored and marked substantially like the 
 female. Underneath femur-I is a row of four spines, which appear to be smaller in femur-II ; 
 tibia-II is not thickened at the apex, but slightly curved, with, a row of four strong 
 rounded spines on the apical half; digital bulb globular ; radial joint with a strong curved 
 brown spur ; cubital joint about the same length as radial ; mandibles relatively longer and 
 slighter than in female; the first two femora rather darker than corresponding joints of 
 female. 
 
 Distribution: Throughout the Eastern and Middle United States, having been collected 
 in New England, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, 
 Georgia, North and South Carolina, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, and as far to the north 
 and west as Wisconsin. I have no specimens from the Pacific Coast. 
 
 No. 29. Epeira Pegnia Walckenakk. Plate VII, Figs. 8, 9. 
 
 J 1837. Epeira Pegnia, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 80, No. 69 ;' Abbot, G. S., No. 375. 
 
 1837. Epeira tytera, Walckenaer . . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 81, No. 70. 2 
 
 1865. Epeira globosa, Keyserling . . . Beitr. z. K. d. Orbit. Berh. d. z. b. Ges. Wien, xv., 
 
 p. 820, pi. 18, Figs. 19-21. 
 
 1876. Epeira iriaranea, McCook . . . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 201, and Ameri- 
 can Spiders throughout. 
 
 1878. Epeira globosa, McCook .... Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 127. 
 
 1884. Epeira triaranca, Emerton . , . N. E. Ep., p. 315, pi. 34, Fig. 9; pi. 36, Figs. 6, 7. 
 
 1889. Epeira globosa, Mak.y Catalogue. 
 
 1892. Epeira globosa, Keyserling . . . Spinn. Amer. Ep., p. 159, tab. 8, Fig. 117. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 3 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 2 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide. The general colors are yellow and brown for the fore part, and 
 yellow and gray for the abdomen. The abdomen is placed so nearly at right angles to the 
 plane of the cephalothorax as much to shorten the apparent total length. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Corselet rounded at sides, truncated behind, elevated at centre, the 
 grooves indistinct, cephalic suture well marked ; color yellow, with sometimes streaks of 
 
 1 No. 375 of Abbot's MSB. drawings is undoubtedly Epeira globosa Keyserling, and the drawing cor- 
 responds well with Walckenaer's description of Epeira Pegnia. Walckenaer makes two varieties of the 
 species. Abbot's No. 484 seems not a good variety, but rather to be a Theridioid spider.^ His variety B is 
 Abbot's No. 375, a female. Abbot's No. 389 (Var. B, Walckenaer) is an immature male. Abbot's No. 555 is 
 also a remarkably good drawing of this species, but I have not been able to find it referred to in Walck- 
 enaer's descriptions. 
 
 3 This, according to Abbot's drawings, appears to be the same species as the above a female. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 171 
 
 brown on the sides, and a brighter yellow band along the margin ; dorsum slightly pubes- 
 cent, except at the caput, which is well covered with yellowish gray hairs. Sternum "shield 
 shape, about as wide as long, covered with yellowish hairs, brown, with a broad yellow 
 median band. Labium and maxillse light yellow, and as in Epeira. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a central prominence, wider in front than behind, the side 
 about as long as front; eyes about equal in size; MR amber yellow, MF blackish; MF 
 separated by about 1.6 diameter; MR by less than 1 diameter; side eyes on slight tubercles, 
 barely contingent; SF somewhat larger than SR; MF separated from SF by about or less 
 than their area, and set close to clypeus margin, less than one diameter MF therefrom. 
 Front row recurved, the longer rear row slightly procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, well provided with bristles and hairs, and rather sparingly with 
 blackish spines; the color is yellow, with brown annuli at tips of joints and middle of 
 tibia and metatarsus. Palps colored and armed as legs; mandibles conical, tapering to 
 widely separated tips ; the base rounded and with a brown chitinous cog. 
 
 Aiidomen: Triangular ovate, almost as wide as long, widest at the base; carried nearly 
 perpendicularly ; dorsum arched to distal spinnerets. Color yellow, with a cretaceous folial 
 pattern, resembling rudely a butterfly, with outspread wings, on the base, and the body 
 extending backward along the median line. This figure is margined with black, and irreg- 
 ular lines of black pass from the dorsum along the sides toward the venter, leaving the 
 sides marked by a broken band of yellow. Four brownish lines pass from the middle of the 
 dorsum longitudinally to the apex, and spots of black are symmetrically arranged on either 
 side receding to the spinnerets. In front the abdomen is marked by two or three rows of 
 black circular spots; the whole surface is strongly reticulated. The venter has a broad 
 patch of white or whitish yellow, marked in the middle by a lateral band of blackish 
 brown ; the epigynum (Fig. 8a, 8b) is marked by a decided scapus. 
 
 Male: Closely resembles female in color and markings; the inner apical half of 
 tibia-II provided with a double row of strong clasping spines, and somewhat thicker than 
 tibia-I. The color, in some examples at least, tends to be lighter than in the female, and 
 the markings upon the abdomen are more cretaceous. 
 
 Distribution : My collection places this species from New England southward along the 
 Atlantic seaboard, and westward through Pennsylvania and Ohio, as far northwest as Wis- 
 consin (Professor Peckham) ; along the Pacific Coast at Santa Cruz, Cal. (Mr. Harford), 
 and San Diego (Mrs. Eigenmann and Mrs. Smith). It will probably be found distributed 
 throughout the entire United States. 
 
 No. 30. Epeira labyrinthea Hmrass. Plate VII, Figs. 10, 11, 12. 
 
 1847. Epeira labyrinthea, Hentz . . . J. B. S., v., 471, pi. xxxi., 3. 
 
 1875. Epeira labyrinthea, Hentz .... Sp. II. S., p. Ill, pi. xiii., 3. 
 
 1884. Epeira labyrinthea, Emerton . . N. E. Ep., p. 314, pi. xxxiv., 8. 
 
 1889. Epeira labyrinthea, McCook . . . Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 Female: The specimens vary much in size, from the large examples on the Pacific 
 Coast to those which inhabit the Atlantic Coast and interior; I describe from the latter. 
 Total length, 5.5 (8) mm.; abdomen, 3.5 (5.5) mm. long, 2.5 (6) mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 2.3 (3) mm. long, 2 mm. (2.5) mm. wide. A large female from the Pacific (bast measures 
 7 mm. long, of which the abdomen is 4.5 mm. long by 4 mm. wide; the cephalothorax, 
 3 mm. long, by 2.3 mm. wide in the middle, narrowing at the face to one mm. 
 
 CEPHALOTHORAX: Blackish brown, with lighter yellow patches on corselet and face; 
 the margin of lighter color; the caput, especially around the eye space, covered with long, 
 white, bristlelike hairs; sternum shield shape, pointed at the apex, but little longer than 
 broad, elevated in the middle, traversed by a wide yellow band, the margins of which are 
 brown ; the surface covered with hairs and bristles, and broken by slight sternal cones ; 
 the lip more than half the length of the maxillre, which are rounded and as wide as or 
 wider than long; colored as the sternum, except lighter tips. 
 
172 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNING WORK. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 12.2, 10,2, 0, 6.3 mm.; color brown at tips of joints, stout, 
 strongly provided with brown spines, and more freely with yellowish white bristles and 
 pubescence ; palps as the legs, but of lighter color; mandibles conical ; color, brown, flecked 
 with yellow. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on an eminence; somewhat narrower behind, sides not longer 
 than front; MF smaller than MR, and separated by about 1.5 diameter or more; MR by 
 about their radius ; side eyes on tubercles, Harely contingent ; SR somewhat, but little, 
 larger than SF, with strong gray eyebrows ; MF separated from SF by about their area, and 
 from the margin of the clypeus by about 1.5 their diameter; fronf row recurved, rear row 
 longer and procurved ; all the eyes on dark bases. 
 
 Abdomen: A rounded ovate, little longer than wide; arched upon the dorsum, 
 narrower in front than behind, though in some species the difference is small ; gravid 
 females are rather widest at the middle and sloping at either extremity ; color brown or 
 brownish yellow, thickly covered with white and yellowish long hairs; central folium 
 wide, the margins consisting of brown longitudinal bands, which inclose a herring bone 
 pattern yellow in color, as shown in the figures, Plate VII. The ventral pattern is blackish 
 brown, with a median band of bright yellow and marginal bands darker yellow ; spin- 
 nerets brown, the base darker and encircled by yellow spots. The epigynum (10a) has a 
 wide scapus, somewhat compressed at the base and depressed abruptly at the apex, 
 forming a small oval tip. The portulsn are well displayed on either side, and the atriolum 
 strongly pubescent. 
 
 Male: Fig. 11. Length, 3.5 mm.; in color and pattern differs little from female, but 
 apical parts of femora dull brown; femur-I provided with two rows of formidable spines, 
 particularly long on the outside; tibia-II not thickened, but a few strong spines clustered 
 around the apex. The cephalothorax is about one-fifth longer than broad ; in front not 
 quite half as broad as in the middle; dorsum flat, with slight lateral grooves, but a deep 
 median longitudinal fosse; clypeus low; the arrangement of the eyes similar to that of the 
 female, except that the space between SF and MF is relatively less, being hardly greater 
 than the distance which separates MF. Total length, 3.5 mm., but. some specimens 
 measure as much as 4.1 mm. 
 
 Distribution : This species appears to be widely distributed throughout the United 
 States, and probably inhabits every part thereof. My specimens are from New England, 
 along the Atlantic Coast southward to Florida, and through the entire Middle and Central 
 States. I have numerous specimens from California, and along the Pacific Coast (Messrs. 
 Harford, Orcutt, Dr. Davidson, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Eigenmann), and specimens from the 
 Barbadoes and West India Islands, and from Venezuela (Professor Peckham) and other 
 parts of South America. The tropical and California specimens (Figs. 12, 12a) are usually 
 larger, the annuli upon the legs darker and wider, particularly upon the femora. The 
 colors generally upon the head, cephalothorax, and abdomen are more pronounced, the 
 browns being darker and the blackish colors deeper. The abdomen is more pointed at the 
 apex, wider and more rounded at the base, forming an inverted cone, at the apex of 
 which well underneath are the spinnerets. The spinningwork of these spiders is like that 
 of their Eastern congeners, but the cocoons are longer. 
 
 No. 31. Epeira anastera Waukknaer. Plate VIII, Figs. 1-4. 
 
 1837. Epeira anastera, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., No. 4, p. 33; Abbot, G. S., No. 381. 
 
 ... 1837. Epeira evMala, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., No. 12, p. 37; Abbot MSS., Nos. 119, 
 
 120, 361. 
 
 1847. Epeira bombyeinaria, Hentz ... .1. B. S., 476; Sp. U. S., p. 117, xiii., 1(1. 
 
 1863. Epeira parwula, Keyserlinc; . . . Beschr. n. Orb. Isis, p. 131. 
 
 1884. Epeira parmla, Emerton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 317, pi. xxxiv., 12; pi. xxxvii., 1, 2. 
 
 1888. Epeira emlala, McCook Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Fhila., p. 10!). 
 
 1889. Epeira emlala, Marx Catalogue, p. 544. 
 
 1892. Epeira bombyeinaria, Keyseri.ing, Spinn. Amerik., iv., Ep,, p. 145 pi. 7, Fig. 107, fern, 
 

 DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 173 
 
 It is not strange that the remarkable diversity of markings and color upon the dorsum of 
 the abdomen of this spider should have led Baron Walekenacr to erect a number of species 
 thereupon from the manuscript drawings of Abbot in his possession. In my paper here- 
 tofore referred to, 1 I mentioned this fact, and therein gave Epeira eustala as the proper 
 title of this species. The more thorough studies which I gave Abbot's MSS. in the summer 
 of 1892 showed me that the first description in order is given under the name of E. anastera, 
 on page 33, and is No. 4 of Walckenaer's descriptions of the Orbweavers. This corresponds 
 with Abbot's No. 381, which is sufficiently accurate to be recognized as the species under 
 consideration. I have only given in the synonyma these two first occurring names. For 
 the benefit of future students I place in the foot notes the various titles of the species 
 which Walekenaer has given, with their corresponding numbers in Abbot's drawings. 2 
 
 Female: Total length, 7.3 mm.; abdomen, 5.3 mm. long, 5 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 2.9 mm. long, 2.4 mm. wide in the middle, narrowing in front to about a millimetre. The 
 general colors of the fore part of the body vary from yellow and yellowish brown to orange 
 brown; the abdomen from yellow to yellow and dark brown. This organ, however, is 
 greatly varied in markings and shades of color, as illustrated in Plate VIII. , Figs, la-lf. 
 Some of the specimens are entirely without color upon the dorsal field, which is white, 
 with a blackish central spot, or with blackish interrupted triangular lines. These variations 
 are not wholly dependent upon the moulting, as they exist in mature females, numbers of 
 which have been compared with a view to determining this fact. Hentz describes the 
 species as rather inclined to be nocturnal in its habits, being motionless during the day, 
 but active after sunset. It runs with great speed, leaping like an Attus (E. prompta). Its 
 snare is usually pitched upon shrubs and bushes and among grasses and weeds, and 
 resembles that of E. strix. I have seen it sitting upon its hub in a position which is 
 sometimes assumed by its congeners, the abdomen partly resting upon the broken lines of 
 the hub. The spider matures in June and July, and the young are found later in the 
 season. 
 
 Cephalotiiokax: High in the middle, sharply sloping to the truncated base; sides 
 rounded; dorsal fosse a rather deep slit placed on the sloping base below the crest; 
 cephalic suture distinct; head sloping toward the front; skin smooth, provided with yellow 
 hairs; corselet brown, with flecks of yellow, the head yellow or yellowish brown, as is also 
 the face, except at the posterior part of the ocular quad; partly covered with whitish 
 hairs. Mandibles colored as face and head. The sternum is shield shape, scarcely longer 
 than wide, with marked sternal cones; the centre flattened, the color yellow, with patches 
 of yellow around the margins. Labium subtriamjular, wide at the base, yellowish brown, 
 as are the maxilla?, which are wide as long. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a marked prominence, this portion of the face, indeed, seeming 
 to be contracted ; the front slightly wider than rear, and about the width of the sides, the 
 quad forming nearly a square. MF somewhat smaller than MR, separated by twice their 
 diameter or more, and by an even less space from MR; MR separated by about 1.5 to 1.7 
 their diameter. Side eyes propinquate, separated by about or less than a radius, nearly 
 equal in size, but less than those of the central group; MF separated from SF by about 
 1.3 their area, or more than twice the distance between them; height of clypeus about 1.5 
 diameter MF or more; front row is slightly procurved, and decidedly so viewed from 
 behind and above ; the hind row is also procurved, and decidedly longer than the front 
 row, being set well to the side of SR instead of behind it, so much so that the two side 
 eyes appear to form the extremities of the front row. (Fig. lq.) 
 
 • Notes on the Nomenclature of Orbweavers, Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., page 199. 
 
 3 Epeira cepina W. No. 13, p. 37 ; Abbot, Nos. 173, 157. E. apatroga W. No. 23, p. 43 ; Abbot, Nos. 371, 
 373, 376. E. spatulata W. No. 24, p. 41; variety C; Abbot, Nos. 171, 366. E. illustrata W. No. 26, p. 45; 
 Abbot, Nos. 186, 187, 188. E. decolorata W. No. 29, p. 49; Abbot, Nos. 345, 390. E. vividia W. No. 38, p. 54; 
 Abbot, No. 474. E. triflex W. No. 48, p. 60 ; Abbot, No. 112. E. trinotata W. No. 62, p. 75 ; Abbot, No. 272. 
 E. subfusca W. No. 63, p. 67 ; Abbot, No. 273. Thus this one most variable species has been described by 
 Walekenaer as eleven distinct species, and a number of varieties in addition is included under these 
 descriptions. A like confusion marks the descriptions of Professor Hentz, his Epeira prompta, E. hebes, 
 E. foliata, and E. bombycinaria being probably variously marked specimens of the same species. 
 
174 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Legs: The legs 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 10.6, 9.3, 0, 5.7 mm. They are yellow or yellowish 
 brown, varying to orange brown, with dark annuli not only upon the tips of the joints 
 but between them. They are well covered with yellowish hairs, long upon the femora, 
 and not numerously, with light colored spines with dark bases, which are rather long and 
 thin. The palps are colored as the legs, but not so strongly annulated. 
 
 Abdomen: The abdomen is subtriangular, widest at the base, which is somewhat con- 
 tracted at the middle front, where it greatly overhangs the cephalothorax. The posterior 
 part is truncated, and the spinnerets set immediately beneath the apical wall. The apex 
 in many specimens is smooth (Fig. lh), but others, particularly those received from the 
 Pacific Coast, have a blunt caudal tubercle. (Fig. In.) The color is yellow, mottled with 
 black spots upon the margin. The folium consists of a dark brown triangular figure, open 
 at the base, where it is widest, and with a toothed or zigzag margin, which narrows 
 towards the apex. A median lino of dark color extends from the front to the apex, with 
 dentations corresponding with the margin, and flanked on either side by lighter color. 
 The sides are marked by a wavy yellow band; the venter is usually a broad reticulated 
 patch of yellow or yellowish brown between the gills and the spinnerets, marked on either 
 side of the median by a row of three or four black circular spots. The epigynum (Figs. 
 Ik and lm) has a long conical scapus, very wide at the base and diminishing to a sharp 
 point. 
 
 Male: Fig. 3. Length, about 4 min. ; abdomen, 2.3 mm. long, 2.1 mm. broad. On 
 the abdomen the male shows the same variety of markings as in the female, with perhaps, 
 judging from the specimens in hand, a tendency to an excess of cretaceous upon the dorsal 
 field. The abdomen appears to lack the caudal tubercle which marks the apex of the 
 female. The cephalic fosse is deeper and longer than, and the cephalic suture not quite as 
 distinct as in the female, and the head apparently more depressed and more contracted at 
 the face. The eyes are as in the female, except that the central prominence is more 
 marked, side rear eyes if anything set even a little lower than in the female ; moreover, 
 the ocular quad is a trifle wider in front than behind, instead of being a trifle narrower, 
 as with the female. Digital joint of the palp is distinct, as at Fig. 3a. 
 
 Distribution: I have collected this spider along the Atlantic Coast from New England 
 southward to Florida, and westward through Pennsylvania and Ohio and in Texas. It is 
 found to the north in Wisconsin (Professor Peckham), and I have numerous specimens 
 from the Pacific Coast (Dr. Blaisdell, Mr. Curtis, and others), and from Utah. It is found 
 throughout our Southern States, in Mexico, and Central America. It may therefore be 
 regarded as a continental species, and is probably found with some variations in the 
 northern belt of the South American States. 
 
 E. anastera, variety conchlea McCook. Plate VIII, Fig. In. 
 
 In the proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences, 1888, page 199, I distinguish 
 under the above name those examples of E. anastera which have a decided caudal tubercle 
 upon the dorsum of the abdomen. The specimens bearing this characteristic seem as a 
 rule to be larger and to have more sharply outlined and darker markings, but in other 
 respects do not substantially differ from the typical form as above described. The variety 
 is abundant, and indeed prevalent, in California and Florida. 
 
 No. 32. E. eustalina Makx, variety E. anastera. Plate VIII, Fig. Ip. 
 
 1889. Epeira eustalina, Mahx Catalogue, p. 545 (Keyserling in lilt.). 
 
 Under the above name Count Keyserling in his manuscript notes described as a 
 separate species what I take to be simply one of the numerous variations of E. anastera. 
 After examining examples named by Keyserling I see no reason for establishing thereon a 
 new species. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 175 
 
 The Angulata Group of Epeira. 
 
 One meets a series of small Epei'roids, mostly of the Angulata group, which are char- 
 acterized by several common features, and some of which are difficult to distinguish one 
 from another. They all possess a peculiarly shaped epigynum, which is generally char- 
 acterized by having a long convoluted scapus of cretaceous or whitish yellow color, of 
 about equal breadth throughout the stalk, and widening at the tips into a broad spoon or 
 ladlelike oval. This peculiarity at once strikes the observer, and compels him to place 
 the species together in one group. Moreover, he observes that they are all small, being 
 about 5 mm. in length, a little more or less. These species are furthermore found to 
 resemble one another in the general shape of the face and arrangement of the eyes ; 
 an agreement which extends to the form of the cephalothorax, which is somewhat oval, 
 rounded at the margins of the corselet, pitched high in the middle, and sharply slopes 
 before and behind. The resemblance is further seen in the strong, well arched shape of 
 the caput, rather squarish in its general contour, and wide at the face. 
 
 Looking at the abdomen, the series is at once seen to be divided into two sections, of 
 which one, like Epeira juniperi and E. linteata, has an ovate abdomen, smooth upon the 
 surface, that is, without shoulder humps. Comparing the above two species, one remarks a 
 difference in the shape of the atriolum, which in E. juniperi is divided in the posterior 
 part, leaving the portulaa rather distinct, and having curved, pointed, or ram's horn proc- 
 esses issuing from the inner side of the bases. E. linteata has an atriolum that is more or 
 less continuous, being somewhat bowl shaped, from the middle of which the scapus arises, 
 and this is shorter than E. juniperi's. The abdomen of Linteata is also more triangular in 
 shape than that of Juniperi. 
 
 Passing to the other, or Angulata section, the differences are not so marked, and the 
 species are often difficult to determine. The species which I take to be typical of the well 
 known Ilentzian Epeira scutulata, which must now yield to the prior name of Walckenaer, 
 E. miniata, is distinguished by two learlike appendages (Plate VIII., Fig. 8c), which arise 
 from the base of the atriolum near the issue of the scapus, and are held aloft upon a short 
 stalk, which, like the leaflike process, is black. E. Mayo has the same characteristic 
 scapus (Plate VIII., Fig. 11a), though perhaps a little more rounded or ladlelike; but the 
 atriolum is without the leaf shaped appendages, and sends out two broad curved sides, 
 which in some specimens unite underneath the tip of the scapus, seeming to form a con- 
 tinuous bowl. In other specimens these are seen really to be separate, and to form simply 
 flanking walls of the portuhe. In E. Bonsallse (10b), on the contrary, the epigynum 
 strongly resembles that of E. juniperi, having the ram's horn appendages to the inner 
 bases of the portukc. The tip of the scapus is not quite so circular as that of Mayo, but 
 this may be an individual characteristic. The abdomen of E. Bonsalla? is at once distinct 
 from that of Juniperi, by being subtriangular, having short shoulder humps, and possess- 
 ing V-shaped rows of brownish spots approximating at the apex. E. Paciflcie differs from 
 the other species of the section to which it is most closely allied, by the strong character 
 of the dorsal folium ; by the deeper brown bands upon the legs, and the median annuli ; 
 by the generally stronger and darker colors of the whole animal ; and, moreover, by the 
 form of the epigynum, the scapus of which is much convoluted, issuing from the base of 
 a bowl shaped atriolum, which is continuous both in front and behind, and not dividing 
 underneath the tip of the scapus, as is the case in Mayo, from which species it also differs 
 by the general markings and color. 
 
 It is possible that future students, who may be favored with more numerous specimens 
 from which to judge, may find that these characteristics, some of them at least, are more 
 individual than specific ; or, that instead of giving good grounds for specific distinction, 
 may simply establish varietal forms of one common species, of which E. miniata may be 
 held as the principal form. I have presented these differences as they appear to me, in 
 the hope to simplify and economize the labors of naturalists, who are sure to find, as I 
 have found, much labor and perplexity in discovering good characteristics by which to 
 distinguish this perplexing group. 
 
176 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 No. 33. Epeira' linteata, new species. Piute VIIT, Figs. 5, 6. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4 mm.; abdomen, 2.(5 mm. long, 2.6 wide, narrowing to 1 mm,; 
 cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1.6 wide; about the face, 1 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet a rounded oval, peaked in the centre, sloping sharply down 
 behind, with a smooth fiat surface, and with almost an equal slope toward the front; fosse 
 almost obliterated; cephalic suture not prominent; corselet grooves indistinct; color yellow, 
 with streaks of brown; caput and face covered with long yellowish-white hairs. Sternum 
 shield shape, truncated in front; sternal cones; yellowish brown ; slightly pubescent; labium 
 sub-rectangular at base and triangular at tip; maxillre rounded at margins; as broad as 
 long ; color as the sternum. 
 
 Eves: Ocular quad without a decided prominence; its eyes about equal in size; the 
 front about equal to the length and a little wider than the rear. MF dark colored, sepa- 
 rated by about 1.5 diameter; MR amber, and separated by about one diameter. Side eyes 
 about equal in size, placed on a slight tubercle; SF separated from MF by about the area 
 of MF ; the two eyes contingent, and SR so nearly on a line with SF that they seem to be 
 grouped rather with the front than the rear row. The space between SR and MR equals 
 at least three, perhaps four, times the space between MR. The front row of eyes is almost 
 aligned, being only slightly recurved ; the rear row is much procurved ; clypeus high, its 
 margin separated from MF eyes by about twice their diameter. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout for so small a species; armored with yellow spines and long 
 bristlelike hairs; the joints appear to lack annuli, but my specimens have been much 
 injured in the alcohol. Mandibles subcorneal, diverging slightly at the tips, a little reced- 
 ing beneath. 
 
 Abdomen : Subtriangular, and without dorsal tubercles. At the widest part it is about 
 as broad as long; is highly arched, rounding from the cephalothorax to the apex, and 
 marked by a broad, white, capelike folium, with denticulate edges, extending from the 
 spinnerets to the base, and overlapping the basal front in a scalloped point. (Plate VIII., 
 Fig. 5b.) This white patch is broken in the centre by a dark interrupted band, dividing 
 on either side of the median line. The sides, like the centre, are yellow brown, marked 
 with reticulations at the venter. The ej-igynum has a short scapus broadened at the tip 
 (Figs. 5c, 5d), and appears to proceed from a bowl shaped atriolum, that in one specimen at 
 least (5d) seems to pass out beneath. 
 
 Maj.e: The male (Fig. 6) differs little in its markings from the female. It is somewhat 
 smaller in size, and is distinguished by a palpus whose digital bulb is given at Fig. 6b. 
 
 This species resembles in many particulars E. miniata, but differs in the form of the 
 eyes (5f ), especially in the location of the rear lateral eyes. It also lacks the well developed 
 dorsal tubercle upon the base of the- u> 'omen which characterizes E. miniata, and the 
 epigynum is distinctly different. The species is probably a little more closely related to 
 Emerton's Epeira aiboventris. 
 
 Distribution : The only specimens which I have, four females and one male, were col- 
 lected in North Carolina. 
 
 No. 34. Epeira corticaria Emerton. Plate VIII, Figs. 7, 7a d. 
 
 1884. Epeira corticaria, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 300, pi. 33, Fig. 14; pi. 35, Fig. 9. 
 
 Female: Total length, 7 mm.; abdomen, 5 mm. long, 5 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 2.5 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Longer than broad; rounded at the edges; cephalic suture deep; 
 somewhat flattened on the top; the fosse well marked; corselet grooves not prominent; 
 color yellow, with a patch of brown around the fosse and on the base of caput; head but 
 little depressed, wide in front. Sternum dark or blackish brown, with decided sternal 
 cones, slightly covered with yellow pubescence; labium subtriangular; maxilla; slightly 
 longer than broad, and subtriangular at the tip. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 177 
 
 Eyes: Ocular q\iad on a decided prominence, about as wide as high; MF about equal 
 to MR in size ; MF separated by about 1.5 diameters, and by about an equal space from 
 MR. The latter separated by about one-half diameter; side eyes separated by a slight space. 
 SF larger than SR, the latter being placed well to the side of the former, and in their 
 curvature. The front row recurved, rear almost aligned; SF separated from MF about 1.3 
 the space which divides the latter, or about the area of the latter ; SR from MR by about 
 twice the area of the latter; clypeus about 1.5 to 2 diameters MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, well armed with yellow spines and bristles with dark bases; 
 joints with brown apical and median annuli ; palps colored and marked as legs; mandibles 
 conical, yellow. 
 
 Abdomen: Triangular ovate; the length about equals the breadth across the base, at 
 which point are two well developed tubercles. The color varies from dark brown to yellow- 
 ish brown. The tubercles are beautifully reticulated, as is also the subtriangular basal 
 front, which slopes rather sharply to the cephalothorax ; in the middle of the base is a 
 cruciform marking of yellow color. The folium is somewhat undulated laterally, but indi- 
 viduals vary in this respect. The dorsum is well arched, the spinnerets distal. A squarish 
 patch of brown marks the venter, bordered with a broad reticulated yellow ribbon ; the 
 spinnerets are brown, except a slight ring of yellow. The epigynum (Fig. 7d) has a well 
 developed scapus, broad at the base and narrowing toward the top; it is much wrinkled 
 and curved, as shown in the side view (7b), and extends well over the portuhe. 
 
 Distribution : Massachusetts and New York; probably all of New England and the 
 northern Middle States. Specimens received from Mr. Nathan Banks, Ithaca, N. Y. 
 
 No. 35. Epeira miniata Walckenahb. Plate VIII, Figs. 8, 9; PI. X, Figs. 7, 8. 
 
 \) 1837. Epeira miniata Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., No. 17, p. 39; Abbot, G. S., Nos. 228, ^ 
 
 229, 230. 
 -. 1837. Epeira cingulata Walckenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., No. 18, p. 40; Abbot's "Belted L^ 
 
 Spider," Nos. 232, 305. 
 j 1837. Epeira guUulata, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., No. 65, p. 78 ; Abbot, G. S., No. 233. 
 J 1837. Epeira biviltata, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 78, No. 66; Abbot, G. S., No. 234. 
 
 1850. Epeira scutulata, Hentz B. J. S., p. 19, iii., 3 ; Sp. U. S., p. 121, xiv., 3. 
 
 1879. Epeira punctillata, Keyserlinc . Neue Spinn. aus Amer., i., Verh. Zool. Bot. Ges. 
 
 Wien, p. 304, pl. iv., 7, male palp. 
 
 1889. Epeira scutulata Marx Catalogue, p. 547. 
 
 1892. Epeira scutulata Keyserlino . . Spinn. Ai.ierik. Ep., p. 129, tab. vi., 96, fern. 
 
 In giving the synonyma of this beautiful species I have been guided by my studies of 
 Abbot's MSS., and my notes thereon show that I regard Nos. 228, 229, and 230 as the same 
 species, and consider that 230, an immature male, also belongs to the same species. No. 228 
 resembles those forms in my collection in which two oval white patches stand out prom- 
 inently upon the dorsal base of the abdomen between the tubercles. The colors are yellow, 
 the round whitish patches red. The dorsal tubercles are strongly suggested in No. 228, but 
 are represented in No. 229, which is distinctly marked by the V-shaped rows of black spots 
 on the margin of the folium. No. 230 of Abbot is a yellow specimen with brownish folium, 
 and a red bow along the abdominal front. The V-shaped spots show distinctly in this 
 example, which, like No. 227, is an immature male. Abbot's Nos. 232 and 233 appear to be 
 the same species, although the abdominal tubercles are indistinctly indicated, or so nearly 
 wanting that one hesitates to decide. They are beautifully colored. No. 233 has the ceph- 
 alothorax and legs of greenish yellow ; the abdomen green and yellow, with a median 
 lateral stripe of brown with yellow centre; the eight V-shaped spots are brown within 
 yellow circles. No. 233 (Epeira guttulata, Walck.) has the cephalothorax, legs, and abdom- 
 inal front yellow, the abdomen orange brown, with eight black V-shaped spots within 
 yellow circles. I place this number in the synonyma with less confidence than the others, 
 
178 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 but on the whole think there is not much doubt that it is correctly placed as here. 
 Abbot's No. 234, Epeira bivittata, Walck. (II., page 78), is probably the same ; the central 
 folium is vermilion or lake color, as are also the eight V-shaped spots. The remainder of 
 the abdomen is green, with yellowish-white bands. The legs and cephalothorax are also 
 green, with orange yellow annuli. 
 
 Abbot's No. 305, which Walckenaer regards as identical with his Epeira cingulata (Abbot's 
 No. 233), is without doubt a beautiful example of Hentz's E. scutulata. Abbot has desig- 
 nated it in his brief notes as "none so pretty;" he beat it off of a sumac bush. The 
 general color of the abdomen is green ; but a T-shaped figure of delicate ash color defines 
 the dorsal" folium. The V-shaped spots are included within contiguous circles of dark 
 pinkish color, and the circular spots upon the dorsal front are similarly marked. The 
 cephalothorax and legs are light yellow. The abdominal tubercles on this specimen are 
 plainly indicated in Abbot's drawing— so much more distinctly indeed than in No. 228 (E. 
 miniata) that I have hesitated whether it would not be right to accept this as the type of 
 the species, although the description occurs much later in order in Walckenaer's publication. 
 However, I have little doubt that No. 228 is identical with Hentz's E. scutulata, and there- 
 fore conclude to give it the priority. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4.5 mm.; abdomen, 3 mm. long, nearly 4 mm. broad; cephalo- 
 thorax, 2 + mm. long, somewhat less in width; head about half as wide as. cephalothorax. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Corselet rounded ovate; cephalic suture, fosse and grooves distinct; 
 caput slightly depressed, pubescent, with a few bristles; sternum slightly longer than wide, 
 with sternal cones, somewhat arched, pubescent, yellowish brown. Labium triangular, base 
 wider than length ; maxilla; as wide as long. 
 
 Eves: Ocular quad about as wide in front as long and wider than rear; MF black, 
 separated about 1.75 diameter; MR amber, about equal to MF, and separated one diameter; 
 side eyes barely contingent, equal, SF removed from MF less than alignment of the latter, 
 or about 1.3 their intervening space; front row slightly recurved, rear row longer and 
 slightly procurved; clypeus about 1.5 diameter in height. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; stout for so small a species, clothed freely with strong hairs and dark 
 spines; color varying from yellow to light brown, and without distinct annuli; the palps 
 resemble the legs; the mandibles are conical, not divergent. 
 
 Abdomen: Triangular ovate, much broader at base than apex; the base, which over- 
 hangs the cephalothorax, slopes downward thereto, forming a triangular front, thus leaving 
 the abdomen divided by a ridge into two well defined slopes. The anterior part is in some 
 species darker in color, has a lateral row of circular spots, and on the crest two bright 
 white oval spots; beyond this sometimes rosy tints. Shoulder humps well defined, darker 
 in front, in the rear tipped at times with white ; dorsum abruptly arched to the spinnerets. 
 The color in many specimens is grayish yellow, in others pale yellow, and in some quite 
 white, with reticulated markings. An indistinct triangulated folium marks some specimens ; 
 on each dorsal margin is a row of four brownish yellow spots within white circles, which 
 converge to the apex in V-shape. In some specimens these are quite distinct, in others 
 apparently wanting. The ventral pattern is a dark brown median band, with light yellow 
 and gray margin; spinnerets dark; epigynurn with a short somewhat sinuated scapus, well 
 rounded at the tip. 
 
 Male: Total length, 3 mm.; cephalothorax slightly longer than broad, and ridged in 
 the centre as in female ; abdomen slightly longer than broad ; shoulder tubercles less prom- 
 inent than in female. Adult specimens in hand (California) have a triangular dorsal folium 
 with scalloped edges sharply marked by dark brown interrupted lines, punctuated at points 
 with black spots. In several immature specimens from Florida and elsewhere the markings 
 closely resemble that from which Hentz described the species, an immature male ; V-shaped 
 black dots mark the margin of the dorsum, narrowing to the apex, and four somewhat 
 similar spots are on the base in front. In some immature specimens from California, when 
 freshly taken, the abdomen was prettily tinted with pink hues. (Plate VIII., Fig. 9a.) 
 Length of legs (1, 2, 4, 3), 7, 5.2, 4.7, 3.1 mm.; tibia-II is not thickened or otherwise mod- 
 ified, and the coxa; are without spurs. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 179 
 
 Distrihution : I have specimens from New Jersey, Georgia, North Carolina, Florida, 
 and California; Hunt/, described it from Alabama; Dr. Marx has it from the District of 
 Columbia, Illinois, and Texas. This indicates that it inhabits the entire southern portion of 
 the United States, as far north as the District of Columbia, and westward to California. I 
 have no specimens from any of the Northern or Middle States, except one from Wisconsin, 
 marked doubtful. The coloring and dorsal markings vary greatly in specimens under 
 observation, the difference not dependent upon moulting changes, as it shows in mature 
 examples. Colors range from dark yellow, with blackish or brown spots, to white; pale 
 yellows, pinks, and even greenish tints appear on fresh specimens. The V-shaped circular 
 spots on the dorsum are sometimes distinct, and again disappear, giving place to a triangular 
 folium with interrupted margins. 
 
 No. 36. Epeira Bonsallae, new species. Plate VIII, Fig. 10. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; abdomen, 3.5 mm. long, 3 inm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 2 mm. long, 1.75 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Corselet well rounded, elevated in centre, deep rounded fosse; 
 corselet grooves sufficiently distinct; cephalic suture deeply marked, separating the head 
 decidedly from the corselet; the head slightly depressed toward the face, where it is not 
 narrowed ; color, yellow to yellowish brown, with a lighter stripe on the margin. Sternum 
 shield shaped, with slight sternal cones, color yellow, slightly clothed with long yellow 
 hairs. Maxillae subglobose, decidedly broader than long; cut square at the tip; labium 
 triangular, colored as maxilla;, and is about half their height. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad almost a square; but very slightly narrower in front than behind ; 
 MF black, MR amber color; MF separated by about L6 their diameter; MR slightly larger 
 and separated by about 1.3 diameter; front row slightly recurved; rear procurved. (Fig. 
 10a.) Side eyes on slight tubercles, propinquate, SF the larger. SF separated from MF by 
 a little more than the area of the latter; SR from MR by at least 1.3 the area of the latter; 
 MF from the clypeus margin by about 1.5 their diameter. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3 ; stout, yellow, without decided annuli, armed with strong bristlelike 
 hairs and strong long spines. The palps are similarly armed. 
 
 Abdomen : Subtriangtilar, with slight basal tubercles, at which point the width about 
 equals the length ; dorsum rounded, and well arched to the distal spinnerets ; color green, 
 with a folium yellow at the margin, green in the centre, except at the median line, which 
 again is yellow. Branching longitudinal lines mark the apical part of the folium, and on 
 either side within the yellow irregular folial margin is a row of four brownish spots, 
 approximated toward the apex in V-shape. The venter is greenish yellow, except the 
 epigynuni, which is brown, of which the scapus is rounded, wrinkled, of nearly equal 
 thickness throughout, except at the tip, where it broadens out into a heart shaped spoon 
 of at least twice the width of the base. A minute tonguelike appendage extends from 
 each of the portulte. 
 
 Distribution: This species, of which I have but one specimen, was received from 
 California. It strongly resembles E. miniata, of which it may possibly be a variety, or 
 variant form. 
 
 No. 37. Epeira Mayo, new species. Plate VIII, Fig. 11. 
 
 1889. Epeira Mayo, Marx in lilt. . . . Catalogue, p. 540 (Keyserling in litt.). 
 
 Female: Two specimens, one 5 mm. long, the other 4.5. In general form and char- 
 acter this species resembles closely E. miniata. It appears to me to be a variety thereof 
 after studying the type upon which Count Keyserling in his MSS. notes established the 
 above. The abdomen is more ovate than E. miniata, not so wide relatively across the 
 base, nor so sharply ridged in the dorsal crest. The V-shaped folial spots are wanting, and 
 no distinct folial pattern appears, only irregular, waving, pale lateral lines, which give an 
 
180 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 indistinct suggestion of a folium. The epigynum differs in the greater length and decided 
 convolution of the scapus. The cochlear in E. miniata is more prolonged and slightly 
 compressed in the middle, while that of E. Mayo is almost a circular bowl. The leaf like 
 appendages of the atriolum in E. miniata are wanting, or at least are folded down, in E. Mayo. 
 Distribution : Two females, one in my collection from Wisconsin and one in the Marx 
 Collection from Minnesota. The known patria is thus the Northwestern United States. 
 
 No. 38. Epeira bispinosa Keyserling. Plate IX, Figs. 3, 3a-b. 
 
 1884. Epeira bispinosa, Keyserling . . Neue Spinn. Amerik., vi., p. 531, xiii., 30. 
 1892. Epeira bispinosa, Keyserling . . Spinnen Amerik. Epeir., p. 124, vi., 92. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long by 2.1 mm. broad; abdomen, 
 3.5 to 4 mm. long by 4.5 to 5 mm. wide at the base. Colors, fore part of body brown, 
 abdomen yellow. This spider is distinguished from E. miniata by the arrangement and 
 relative size of the eyes, especially of the middle group, the midfront eyes of Bispinosa 
 being almost twice as widely separated as those of Miniata and decidedly smaller; the 
 ocular quad is relatively wider in front than rear, and the clypeus much higher. The legs 
 also are annulated, and the epigynum has a longer and more convoluted scapus, like 10. Mayo. 
 
 Ckpiialothorax : A long oval ; the crest high ; corselet brown, with a lighter marginal 
 band; caput yellow, necked with brown; the whole sparsely covered with hair. Sternum 
 almost as broad as long; raised in the middle; with decided cones; yellowish brown color; 
 labium long, subtriangular. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 9.4, 8.10, 5.2, 7.3 mm. Color, yellowish brown, with annular 
 markings; well provided with hairs, bristles, and spines. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a well rounded prominence, the sides about equal to front, the 
 latter wider than rear ; MF separated from 2 to 2.5 times their diameter, and are much 
 smaller, from one-third to one-half, than MR, which are separated from one another about 
 a diameter and a half. The side eyes on prominent tubercles, well separated ; SF somewhat 
 larger than SR, and about or a little more than the size of MF, from which they are 
 divided by about the area of MF. Front row recurved, rear row longer and slightly pro- 
 curved ; clypeus is high, about the space between MF. 
 
 Abdomen : Triangular ovate ; with prominent shoulder humps, basal front subtriangular ; 
 dorsum arched from crest to distal spinnerets ; color yellow, surface reticulated, lines of 
 brownish color extending longitudinally in the middle of the dorsum, and laterally along 
 the sides and underneath to the venter; ventral pattern squarish, yellow, reticulated, and 
 bordered with brown ; spinnerets dark brown, mottled at the edges with whitish and yellow 
 spots. The sides are yellow, with alternate black and white, running vertically from the 
 venter to the dorsum. The epigynum (Plate IX., 3b) has prominent bowl shaped portulse; 
 the scapus long, much sinuated, and terminates in a wide spooned bowl. 
 
 Distribution: Southern California; Fort Yuma, Ariz. (Marx Collection); Keyserling 
 locates it in Central America, Panama, and Hayti. The specimen is probably widely dis- 
 tributed throughout the semitropical parts of North America. 
 
 No. 39. Epeira Pacificae, new species. Plate XI, Figs. 15, 16. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 4 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 2 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Oval ; corselet well rounded at the edges, rather high in the middle, 
 sharply sloping backward, caput inclined forward to the face; corselet grooves distinct; 
 cephalic suture decidedly marked ; color, dark brown, with flecks of yellow on the median 
 base ; grayish white hair rather sparsely distributed over the surface. The caput is strong, 
 squarish, wide at the face, well rounded, colored as the cephalothorax, with a yellow patch 
 at the eye space; sprinkled with gray hairs, more abundant upon the face and eyebrows. 
 Sternum shield shape, not greatly pointed at the apex ; longer than broad ; sternal cones 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 1*1 
 
 distinct, covered slightly with gray hairs ; a uniform brown ; labium triangular ; maxilla? 
 as wide or wider than long, subtriangular at the tips ; both colored as the sternum, but a 
 rather lighter hue. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a rather squarish rounded eminence, of which the front is 
 more pronounced ; MF upon separate tubercles, black, about the size of MR, which are 
 bright amber color ; the quad barely longer than wide, slightly wider in front than behind ; 
 MF separated by about 1.75 diameter; MR by about 1.6; side eyes upon slight tubercles, 
 about equal in size, contingent; SR well to the side and separated from MR by 1.3 the 
 area of the latter. MF separated from SF by little more than their area, or 1.3 their 
 interval; the height of the clypeus equal to about 1.5 diameter MF; front row but little 
 recurved, rear row longer, and from the same aspect procurved, but viewed from above 
 but a little, is aligned. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3 ; yellow, with darker annuli at the tips, and slight annuli at the 
 middle of the metatarsus and tibia ; freely provided with grayish yellow hairs, bristles, 
 and dark long spines; the palps are colored and armed as the legs; mandibles subcylin- 
 drical, long, strong, brownish yellow, pubescent. 
 
 Abdomen : Subtriangular, thickened at the base, which rises almost perpendicularly 
 from the corselet, forming an angle with the dorsal field ; the latter arched to the apex, 
 which slightly overhangs the spinnerets. The abdomen is thus divided into two sub- 
 triangular fields ; the front is mottled cretaceous and blackish, punctuated with numerous 
 black spots ; reticulated, with a lanceolated cretaceous band between the shoulder humps ; 
 the dorsal field is cretaceous or yellow, which color extends along the inside and posterior 
 of the rounded, strongly marked shoulder humps ; between the humps, in one specimen, are 
 two oblong bright white patches, which take the place of the cretaceous extension above 
 referred to. The dorsal field is marked by a decided folium, which occupies half thereof; 
 it is outlined by a cretaceous undulating margin, within which extends a parallel line of 
 black to the apex ; beyond this are yellowish shades extending to the median pattern; 
 which is an interrupted cretaceous or yellow ribbon. The venter is a brownish yellow 
 ribbon, compressed in the middle, with wide semicircular patches of reticulated white and 
 yellow on each side, which merge into similarly colored stripes along the sides of the abdo- 
 men. The epigynum has a long, yellowish white, convoluted scapus (Fig. 15a), whose stalk 
 is of about equal width throughout, and terminates in a widened and rounded spoon. The 
 atriolum rises from the margin of the genital cleft as a hollow bowl or shell, from the base 
 of which the scapus originates. 
 
 Male: Fig. 16. Resembles in general form and markings the female. The cephalo- 
 thorax is more oval, the head relatively narrower at the face, the legs have wider and 
 darker annuli at the tips; the abdomen is relatively narrower at the base than the female, 
 though with the same general conformation, and with smaller shoulder humps; the folium 
 is outlined at the margin by an interrupted waving band of black, margined by white. A 
 brownish yellow median line shoots between the shoulder hunips, sending forth four longi- 
 tudinal branches of like color along the middle of the folium to the apex. Tibia-II is not 
 thickened, and has no distinctive clasping spines; is simply provided with three rows of 
 long brownish spines. Tibia-I is greatly longer than tibia— II, and has more spines thereon. 
 Femora-I and II are covered, except near the bases, with wide dark brown annuli ; the 
 palpal digit is globular, glossy, and brown ; the cymbium blackish, covered well with 
 grayish hairs. 
 
 Distribution : I have three females and one male of this species, received from Cali- 
 fornia ; and two other females and an immature male from San Diego, Cal. 
 
 The Larger Angulata. 
 
 The smaller Angulata above described might, perhaps, be properly assigned to a sub- 
 genus. Its principal characteristics, apart from the small size of its species, would be a 
 high and subcorneal corselet; an epigynum with a scapus much convoluted or wrinkled, ter- 
 minating in a ladlelike tip ; an abdomen of marked triangular form ; a diminished interval 
 
182 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK 
 
 between the midfront and aidefront eyes as compared with the typical Epeira, 1 To 
 this group might also be assigned E. forata, E. linteata, and -E. juniperi, although theil 
 abdomens are not distinctly triangular, and lack shoulder humps. 
 
 The larger Angulata, whose descriptions follow, 2 may be regarded as among the more 
 typical Epeira. They all make the typical Epeiroid wheel shaped web, which is often very 
 large, and occupy, especially during the day, a leafy nest above and at one side of the 
 snare, which they command by a taut trapline attached to the hub thereof. In some parts 
 of the United States the most common Orbweavers belong to this group. One at least, 
 E. angulata, is distributed throughout the entire country ; and two, E. diademata and 
 E. angulata, are common in Europe, the former, indeed, being the best known garden Orb- 
 weaver. 
 
 No. 40. Epeira gemma McCook. Plate X, Kg. 0; PI. IX, Figs, l, 2. 
 
 1888. Epeira gemma, McCook Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 198. 
 
 1880. Epeira gemma, Marx Catalogue, p. 545. 
 
 1892. Epeira gemma, Keyserung . . . Spinn. Amerik., Epeir., p. 115, vi., 85. 
 
 Female: Total length, 19 mm.; abdomen, 16.7 mm. long, 16 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 6.9 mm. long, 6 mm. in the middle, and 2.8 mm. wide. One large specimen in my posses- 
 sion measures over 20 mm. in length. General colors yellow, with brown or darkish 
 markings, and for the fore part yellow and brown. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Cordate, the base indented; corselet rounded at the edges, rather low, 
 the fosse a deep rounded pit; corselet grooves tolerably distinct; cephalic suture sufficiently 
 marked ; color yellowish brown, with a gray median band, which is chiefly marked out by 
 long gray bristles; gray hairs abundant over the surface, which is glossy. The caput is 
 depressed, flattish upon the top, subtriangular at the base, wide, squarish at the face, colored 
 as the cephalothorax, with yellowish longitudinal bands upon the sides. Sternum heart 
 shaped, pointed at the apex, about one-fourth longer than broad, raised in the middle ; 
 sternal cones before coxa-III, and more rounded ones before coxre-I, II ; a decided cone 
 opposite the lip; color ruddy brown, covered with golden yellow and long bristlelike hairs. 
 Labium subtriangular; maxilloc gibbous, somewhat longer than wide; both these organs 
 brown, with yellow tips, and the maxilla; with a few brownish spines and yellow bristles, 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a well rounded prominence, length not greater than width in 
 front, the front decidedly wider than rear; MF on separate tubercles, larger than MR, sep- 
 arated by at least 1.5 diameter; MR separated by not more than one diameter. Rear eyes 
 on tubercles, not contingent ; SF somewhat larger than SR ; SF removed from MF by about 
 1.3 their area, or at least twice or more their intervening space; SR from MR by 2.5 to 
 three times the area of the latter. The height of clypeus about 1.5 to 2 diameters MI', 
 with a row of strong yellowish bristles along the margin ; the space between the eyes is 
 also sparingly marked with shorter bristles; front row slightly recurved, rear row slightly 
 procurved. 
 
 Legs; 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 23 (24.2), 22.5 (23.2), 21.5 (21.6), 14.75 (15.5) mm. Stout, 
 thickly covered on all sides with long yellowish bristles and yellow spines, which are 
 numerous along the metatarsus and tibia; these are particularly abundant underneath 
 femora-II ; color yellow, strongly annulated with brown at tips of joints and along femora 
 underneath. Palps colored and armed as legs; mandibles strong, conical, brown, glossy, 
 with yellowish tips and yellowish white bristles upon the inner sides. 
 
 Abdomen: Triangular ovate, slightly longer than wide, highly arched on the dorsum 
 from the cephalothorax, which it overhangs, to the distal spinnerets; basal front subtri- 
 angular, high, marked at the summit by two large conical humps ; color blackish brown, 
 
 1 I venture to propose for this group the subgeneric name "Burgessia," in honor of the late Mr. 
 Edward Burgess, of Boston, the editor of Professor Hentz's " Spiders of the United States," who was favor- 
 ably known as an entomologist, and later was an eminent designer of sailing yachts. 
 
 3 Epeira gemma, angulata, diademata, Nordmanni, cavatica, Silvatica. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 183 
 
 interspersed at irregular intervals with yellow spots. Along the dorsal median extends a 
 narrow band of yellow, upon which are placed two angular or lance-head markings, pointed 
 forward, the first of which is placed about the middle of the basal part and the second 
 near the crest. This color band continues more or less regularly along the dorsum to the 
 apex, and in some examples reminds one of Epeira diademata's pattern. About the middle 
 of the dorsum is a shield shaped figure with scalloped edges, blackish brown in color for 
 the most part, though interrupted by yellow lines of a herring bone pattern; a narrow 
 yellow border encompasses the folial shield ; color of dorsum and posterior half of shoulder 
 humps yellow. Dark brown waving and interrupted lines extend along the sides, between 
 which are small round spots, distributed laterally along the sides with more or less reg- 
 ularity. A broad b*ownish band extends along the venter from the spinnerets to the 
 epigynum, bordered along either side by a yellow band more or less interrupted in various 
 specimens, with a median band which is sometimes divided longitudinally. The epigynum 
 (Plate IX., Id) is provided with a rather short scapus, wide at the base, and terminating in 
 a well defined spoon. It has a wide subtriangular atriolum, but rather small for such a 
 large species; the scapus is short, but little differing in width throughout, and terminates in 
 a rounded, heart shaped, brown, chitinous tip, which is spooned. 
 
 Male : Plate IX., Fig. 2. Although I have received a large number of females of this 
 species I have but one mature male thereof. It is small, compared with his mate, having 
 a total length of 8 mm. The cephalothorax is a longer oval than in the female, having at 
 the base a width of 3.5 mm. The color is yellowish brown ; it is less pubescent than the 
 female, the fosse a longitudinal slit, with a rectangular depression around it. The eyes are 
 arranged about as in the female ; the mandibles are much feebler, comparatively longer, and 
 semiconcave upon the front surface, with a rounded cog at the base. The legs are yellows 
 with decided median annul i upon the tibia and metatarsus; spines yellow, with brown 
 bases, and are particularly long underneath femur-I, where they are grouped and clustered 
 about the middle. Tibia-II is not swollen, and has no special clasping apparatus. The 
 palpal digit is globular, with a strong hooked process at the base of the cymbiuni. (Fig. 2a.) 
 The abdomen is shaped as in the female, though much smaller, with decided shoulder 
 humps, and strong spinous bristles of yellowish bright color sparsely scattered over the 
 surface. 
 
 Distribution: This is one of the largest orbweavers of the Pacific Coast, and is found 
 from San Diego northward as far as British Columbia. Numerous specimens have been 
 received from Mrs. Eigenmann, Mr. Orcutt, Dr. Davidson, Dr. Blaisdell, Mr. Curtis, and 
 others; from Utah (Professor Orson Howard) ; and the Marx Collection notes it from Dakota, 
 Montana, and Louisiana. The spider makes a large circular web characteristic of the 
 Angulata group to which it belongs, and rests in a nest of rolled leaves or dome shaped 
 rubbish placed on the upper side of its snare. 
 
 No. 41. Epeira bucardia, new species. 1 Plate IX, Figs. 4, 4a <1. 
 
 Female: Among collections sent from Southern California I have a single specimen, a 
 mature female, which on the whole appears best classified with the genus Epeira. Its total 
 length is 5 mm. The color is bright yellowish brown, mottled with black and darker brown. 
 
 CEPHALOTHORAX: A rather long oval, corselet well peaked in the centre; head slightly 
 depressed; caput strongly marked with dark longitudinal lines; sternum smooth, glossy, 
 dark brown (Fig. 4a) ; almost as wide as long, with slight sternal cones. 
 
 Eyes: In their grouping the eyes approximate more closely Zilla than those of the 
 typical Epeira. (Fig. 4c.) They do not greatly differ in size, the side eyes being smaller 
 and the inidrear pair the largest of all. The drawing of these eyes is unfortunately very ■ 
 imperfect. 
 
 1 " Bucardia," an ox heart. The single specimen of this species was unfortunately lost during the 
 drawing of plates, and I am not able to revise my original notes of description. The plate having been 
 printed before this loss was discovered, I cannot omit the species, as I otherwise would have done, but 
 submit description as above without revision. 
 
184 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SriNNINGWORK. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; yellowish brown in color; strongly cumulated at the joints, and 
 between the joints of femora and tibia;. The palps are yellow; the mandibles conical, 
 parallel, but divergent at the tips; dark brown. 
 
 Abdomen: Subtriangular, or cordate; as wide across the base as the length; strongly 
 marked shoulder humps (Fig. 4b, side view) upon the dorsum, which is yellow, mottled 
 with undulating and transverse black bands, which constitute an irregular folium, occupying 
 most of the dorsum. The apical part of the abdomen is marked by a black foliated figure, 
 in the centre of which may be seen the dark branching lines so common in spiders. The 
 base of the abdomen appears to be divided into two parts by a natural constriction, which, 
 although it may have been caused by the shrinking of the skin in the abdomen, has been 
 represented in the figure. Underneath the color is yellow, mottled with black. (Fig. 4a.) 
 The ventral pattern is a broad, black brown median band, bordered with yellowish white, 
 in the lower portion of which, near the spinnerets, are two whitish spots. The epigynum 
 has a horseshoe shaped atrioluin (Kg. 4d), the ends and ridge of which are black and 
 corneous. The scapus is short, narrow, but widening at the tip like a spoon. 
 
 Distribution: Southern California, one female. 
 
 No. 42. Epeira Nordmanni Thorell. Plate IX, Figs. 5, C, 7; PI. XI, Fig. 5. 
 
 1870. Epeira Nordmanni, Thouell . . . Synonyms European Spiders, p. 4 
 1884. Epeira Nordmanni, Emerton . . N. E. Ep., p. 301, pi. 33, Fig. 6. 
 
 Female: Total length, 15 mm. for largest specimen, smallest adult specimen, 9 mm.; 
 abdomen, 11 mm. long, 9 mm. wide ; cephalothorax, 5.5 mm. long, 4 mm. wide ; width of 
 the face, 2 mm. 
 
 Cephalothorax: A rounded oval, somewhat flattened on top; fosse a deep semicircular 
 pit; corselet grooves distinct, but interrupted; cephalic suture distinct; caput slightly 
 depressed; surface smooth, without pubescence; color, brownish yellow, with dark shades of 
 brown. Sternum shield shaped, bluntly pointed at the" apex; raised in the middle; sternal 
 cones prominent, especially opposite coxae-I, III, most prominent of all in front of labium ; 
 sparsely covered with white hairs. Labium wide, obtusely triangular at tip ; at least half as 
 high as maxilla;, which arc slightly longer than broad, tips subtriangular; color of sternum, 
 lip, and maxilla; dark brown, tipped with yellow. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated; length slightly greater than frontal width, narrowest 
 behind ; MF largest, separated by about one diameter ; MR separated by 0.7 diameter. Side 
 eyes on high tubercles ; barely contingent ; SF larger than SR ; MF separated from SF by 
 about 1.3 their area; SR from MR by from 2 to 2.5 area of latter. Clypeus about 1.5 
 diameters MF high ; front row slightly recurved, the longer rear row slightly procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout; armed with numerous yellow spines with brown bases, and 
 stout bristles; color, yellow or cretaceous, with apical brown annuli; femora-I, II, in some 
 specimens are bright brown, in others yellowish brown. The palps stout, heavily armored 
 and yellow, except at tips of digital joints; mandibles conical; strong, slightly divergent at 
 tips, colored as cephalothorax. 
 
 Abdomen: Triangular ovate; two prominent shoulder humps; the basal front slopes 
 toward cephalothorax, forming an equilateral triangle ; dorsum arched in a long triangle to 
 the spinnerets; the apical wall about two-thirds the thickness of the base. Color yellow to 
 yellowish brown; marked on the dorsal front by a light Y-shaped figure; the arms of the 
 Y extend between the shoulder humps, thence following the median line. This bright 
 yellow band passes onward with interruptions nearly to the apex. On either side of tin; 
 lower half is a row of five semilunar dashes of brown color, converging to the spinnerets ; 
 in some specimens on the lower part of the abdomen these marks are almost entirely 
 united by a band of brown, as in Plate IX., Fig. 5. The yellow color of the sides is 
 crossed by four or five series of brown lines, drawn from common points on the dorsum at 
 the margin of the folium, and widening as they pass around the sides toward the venter. 
 Ventral pattern a dark brown oval band, marked by two bright yellow roundish spots near 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 185 
 
 the middle, and two triangular yellow marks at corner of the gills, and four patches at hase 
 of the dark brown spinnerets. The epigynum (6a) has a prominent scapus, wide at the 
 base, narrowing toward the tip, which is spooned; and in some specimens the seminal 
 chambers are prominently displayed, as in Plate XI., Figs. 5a, 5b. 
 
 Male: Plate IX., Fig. 7; Plate XI., Figs. 5a, 5b. Differs little in markings from 
 female ; cephalothorax a warm yellow or yellowish brown ; legs bright yellow, with brown 
 annuli ; abdomen with cretaceous field and shield shaped foliunl, with denticulate edges ; 
 shoulder humps not pronounced, and appear in some specimens almost wanting. Tibia-II 
 curved, thickened, and provided on the inner and under side, from about midway, with a 
 double and partly triple row of black, toothlike clasping spines. Coxa-II has at its base 
 a long rounded spur, and coxa-I at the articulation with the trochanter a brown, short, 
 chitinous, curved spur. The palpal bulb is rounded, the base provided with a blunt, 
 curved spur; the radial joint much widened at the base, the apex a truncated cone; the 
 cubital joint is short, rounded, and provided with two long spines. 
 
 Distribution : This is a European species, and may have been introduced by com- 
 mercial intercommunication. My specimens locate it along the Atlantic Coast from New 
 England to North Carolina, in the Adirondack Mountains, and in Pennsylvania. Dr. Marx 
 notes it as far north as Maine, and through Massachusetts to Pennsylvania. It will prob- 
 ably be found to affect more closely mountain regions or high elevations. 
 
 No. 43. Epeira cavatica Kkysehling. Plate X, Figs. 1, 2; PI. XI, Fig. 6. 
 
 1881. Epeira cavatica, Keyseiiling . . Verb. Zool. Bot. Ges. Wien, p. 209, xi., I. 
 
 1884. Epeira cinerea, Emeuton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 302, pi. 33. 
 
 1889. Epeira caratica, McCook .... Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. (Ibid., 
 
 E. cinerea, ad part.) 
 1892. Epeira cavatica, Keyserling . . . Spinn. Amcrik., Eper., 118, vi., 87. 
 
 Female: Total length (two specimens), 18 mm., 18 mm; abdomen, 12.8 mm., 10 mm. 
 long, 11.3 mm. and 7 mm. broad; cephalothorax, 7 mm. long, 5.8 (6) mm. broad; width of 
 head, 2.5 mm. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Corselet yellow, with brownish hue at sides and on grooves and 
 median fosse; moderately high; sparsely covered with long, fine pubescence; fosse and 
 cephalic suture deep ; head depressed, flat on top, rather narrow at the face. Sternum codi- 
 form; longer than broad, with sternal cones; covered with bristles; color of sternum, 
 labium, and maxilhe, brown, the latter lighter and yellow at the tips. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated, the width in front greater than length, and narrowest 
 behind; MF separated by 1.5 diameter; MR somewhat smaller than MF, separated by two- 
 thirds diameter; lateral eyes smaller, nearly equal in size, separated by about their radius; 
 MF from SF about 1.5 their area. Clypeus 1.5 to 2 times diameter MF ; front eye row 
 slightly recurved, longer rear row procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: Two specimens, 29 (32) nun., L'T.O (81) mm, •_'") (28.5) mm., 
 17.2 (19.5) mm. Color yellow, with median distal brown annuli. In some specimens the 
 median rings are extended almost to cover the metatarsi and patella;; long and not robust, 
 thickly covered with bristles and gray pubescence except at the tarsi, and with yellow 
 spines, brown at the base. Palps yellow, armed as legs; mandibles yellow or brown. 
 
 Abdomen : Yellowish or brownish color, and in many specimens, on account of the 
 numerous gray hairs and white bristles which densely cover the dorsum, assuming in life a 
 quite gray appearance; dorsum arched in gravid specimens, subtriangular, with shoulder 
 humps; on the basal half a rather indistinct folium, broadest in front, narrowing toward the 
 apex, the edges bordered by a yellow scalloped band ; the sides with dark black stripes 
 extending to the venter, which has a broad black band in the centre passing from the 
 gills and surrounding the spinnerets; this at each side bordered by a narrow, yellow, curved 
 stripe; at base of spinnerets on either side two small yellow spots; epigynum rather short, 
 wide at the base, channeled throughout, somewhat narrowing toward the tip ; a line of 
 
186 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 hairs marks the middle, and the seminal chambers (Plate XI., 6) are well displayed. The 
 scapus is longer than that of E. gemma, which it resembles. 
 
 Male: Total length, 12.5 mm. (in one specimen 15 mm.); abdomen, 6.3 mm. long, 
 4.9 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 7 mm. long, 5.4 mm. wide; face, 2 mm. wide; resembles in 
 form and color the female. (Plate X., 3 ; Plate XI., 9b.) The legs are much longer relatively 
 than those of the female, as follows: Two specimens, 38 (41) mm., 34.5 (40) mm., 19.5 (23) 
 mm., 29.5 (32) mm. These members are indeed enormously long; in one specimen the first 
 leg measures 48 mm., the second 43 mm. The thighs and femur of legs-I, II, are formid- 
 ably armed with spines ; a slight hook marks coxoa-I. The tip of tibia-II is not thickened, 
 nor armed with special clasping spines; but legs-I and II are both provided with numerous 
 long spines, bristles, and hairs, especially on the femora beneath. 
 
 Distribution: I have not collected this spider elsewhere than in the Adirondacks of 
 New York, in New England, and in New Jersey, where it was colonized. It has been 
 taken in Maine, New Hampshire (Mrs. Mary Treat), and is found in New England gen- 
 erally. Dr. Marx records it as collected in Kentucky and Tennessee. Its distribution is 
 probably limited to the more northern belt of States, particularly along the ^seaboard, and 
 it will probably be found to prefer mountainous and elevated locations. 
 
 No. 44. Epeira angulata (Glebck). Plate X, Eigs. 3, 4, 5 ; PI. XI, Eigs. 2, 3, 4. 
 
 1757. Araneus angulatu*, Clerck . . . Aran. Svec, p. 22, i., tab. 1, Figs. 1, 2, 3. 
 
 1757. Araneus virgalus, Clerck .... Ibid., p. 41, ii., tab. 2. 
 
 17(11. Aranea angulata, Linn-t.us . . . Faun. Suecica, Ed. ii., p. 487, 1999. 
 
 1775. Aranea angulata, Fabricius . . . Systema Entom., ii., p. 414, 29. 
 
 1778. Aranea angulata, De Gbbb . . . Mem. des Ins., vii., p. 221, pi. vii., 1. 
 
 1789. Aranea reticulata, Koemkr .... Genera Insectorum, Linn. 
 
 1805. Epeira angulata, Walckenaek . . Tableau des Aran^ides, p. 57, ad part. 
 
 1832. Epeira angulata, Sundevall . . . Svenska Spindlarness, p. 232, No. 1. 
 
 1837. Epeira angulata, Koch IJebers. des Arach. Syst., heft 1., p. 2. 
 
 1837. Epeira quercetorum, Koch, C. . . Ibid., i., p. 2. 
 
 1837. Epeira pinetorum, Koch, C. . . . Ibid., i., p. :s. 
 
 1850. Epeira angulata, Koch, C Die Arach., xi., 77, Eigs. 892, 898. 
 
 1857. Epeira angulata, Bi.ackwai.l . . Ann. & Mag. Nat. Hist., 2d ser., xx., 502. 
 
 1861. Epeira angulata, Westrinc; . . . Aranea; Svecicce, p. 23. 
 
 1864. Epeira angulata, Black wall . . Spid. Gt. Brit. & I., ii., 360, pi. 27, Fig. 259. 
 
 1865. Epeira eremita, Koch, C. L. . . . Herr-Schaefl'., Deutsche Insekten, 131, 23, 24. 
 
 Variety bicentenaria McCook. 
 J884. Epeira angulata, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., pi. xxxiii., 12; pi. xxxv., 2. 
 
 1888. Epeira bicentenaria, McCook . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 195. 
 
 1889. Epeira bicentenaria, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 543. 
 1889. Epeira angulata, Marx Catalogue, p. 542. 
 
 1892. Epeira angulata, Keyseklinc; . . Bpinn. Amerk., Ep., p. 114, vi., 84. 
 
 Female: Total length (two specimens), 17 mm. (21); abdomen, 10 (14) mm. long, 
 9 (12) wide; cephalothorax, 8 (10) mm. long, 7 (8.2) wide; facial front, 4 (4.8) mm. wide. 
 With some hesitation I have placed this spider as a variety of the well known European 
 E. angulata, which it closely resembles. I note these differences: On the venter, in front 
 of the female genital cleft, are two decided cones (Plate XL, Id), between which the scapus 
 passes. 1 In a large number, from all parts of the United States, which I have examined, 
 there is no trace of this peculiarity. The American variety, especially in the Southwest, is 
 much larger than the typical European form, and much more hirsute; the legs particularly 
 are thickly covered with bristles and formidable spines, the latter stouter and stronger than 
 
 1 I have examined only one specimen, from Moscow, Russia, sent me by Professor W. Wagner, but in 
 this these cones are very decided. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 187 
 
 those of the European examples. The clypeus of the American specimens appears to be 
 somewhat higher. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A rounded oval ; the fosse semicircular ; skin glossy ; color dark 
 brown, with yellow patches on the caput base ; corselet grooves rather indistinct : cephalic 
 suture distinct; covered with yellowish-white hairs. Sternum cordate; sternal cones not 
 very prominent, except one in front of the labium ; skin glossy, covered freely with gray 
 hairs; dark brown color, with yellow median band. Labium subtriangular at the tip, 
 rounded at the sides; maxillse broad as long. 
 
 Legs: Stout; 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows (a large specimen): 35, 31, 2(5, 19 mm.; another 
 example measures 31.9, 30.2, 27.9, 19.8 mm.; joints strongly annulated, both at tips and 
 middle; heavily clothed with yellow spines with brown bases, and with dark bristles; palps 
 stout, yellow, with brown annuli. Mandibles conical, parallel; dark brown, with yellow 
 fronts. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated; length about equal to width; broader in front than rear; 
 MF somewhat larger than MR, and separated by about or less than 1.5 their diameter; MR 
 separated by about one diameter. Side eyes on tubercles; separated by about their radius; 
 SF slightly larger than SR. Space between SF and MF about 1.5 area of the latter, or at 
 least three times intervening space of MF; both eye rows slightly procurved; clypeus 
 margin distant from MF 3 to 3.5 diameter of latter. 
 
 Abdomen: Subtriangular; wide at the base across the shoulder humps; front subtri- 
 angular, overhanging the cephalothorax ; color grayish yellow or yellow' with velvety brown 
 markings; the surface dotted over with numerous short, whitish, thick hairs among the 
 pubescence. On the high basal front is a yellow pattern, often assuming the shape of a 
 lyre or the letter U. The folium is shield shaped, with scalloped edges, forming in the 
 middle part a scalloped band of yellow, which unites with a broad band of like color across 
 the dorsal base and the posterior face of the shoulder humps. Wide scalloped bands of 
 yellow, mottled with brown, extend from the shoulder humps, narrowing toward the apex, 
 from which brownish belts, mottled with yellow, extend to the venter. The ventral pattern 
 is a broad trapezoid of brown, with yellowish margins, and three dark, rounded, yellowish 
 spots along either side of the marginal line at the corners and middle ; spinnerets distal, 
 though slightly overhung by the high apical abdominal wall. 
 
 In the epigynum (Plate XL, Figs. 4b, 4c, and Figs. 4d, 4e) the atriolum is distinguished 
 by a high tubular pedestal; the sciipus is long, subcylindrical toward the basal part, which 
 is about equal in length throughout, and beyond the middle part widens slightly into a 
 long spoon shaped tip, wdiose bowl in some species appears to be more decidedly marked 
 from the shaft than in others. 
 
 Male: Resembles the female in color and markings (Plate XI., Figs. 2, 8); is (i mm. 
 in length. The tibia of the second leg enlarged, and armed with rows of black, short, 
 clasping spines; underneath the femora, especially foniur-1, arc rows of long acute spines. 
 The abdomen bears the shoulder tubercles, and has a folium resembling that of the female. 
 A specimen from Russia (Professor W. Wagner) is somewhat longer, but otherwise resembles 
 the American specimen (Plate XI., Fig. 3) collected in Connecticut. 
 
 DISTRIBUTION: This species is one of the largest and, in certain parts, the most common 
 of our spider fauna. Along the Pacific Coast and in Texas it roaches enormous proportions, 
 one specimen from Texas having an abdomen which measures 18 mm. in length and a 
 cephalothorax 12 mm. long and 9 mm. wide. I have specimens from various parts of Cali- 
 fornia (Mrs. C. R. Smith, Mrs. Eigenmann, Mr. Orcutt, Drs. Blaisdell and Davidson) ; have 
 collected it in the Adirondack Mountains and the Alleghenics of Pennsylvania, as well as 
 in New England. The collection of Dr. Marx has specimens as far to the Northwest as 
 Portland, Ore. ; I have specimens from Wisconsin (Professor and Mrs. Pcckham) ; it may 
 therefore be considered as inhabiting the entire United States. Its distribution throughout 
 Continental Europe is quite general, and it probably inhabits the northern shores of Africa, 
 Palestine, and other parts in Asia. It is thus one of the most cosmopolitan of our orb- 
 weavers. It appeare to have experienced little change in form and general characteristics, 
 but is substantially the same in all climates and environments. 
 
188 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 No. 45. Epeira silvatica Emerton. Plate X, Fig. 9; PI. XI, Fig. 9. 
 
 1884. Epeira silvatica, Emerton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 30, xxxiii., 13. 
 
 1892. Epeira silvatica, Keyserling . . . Spinn. Anicrik., p. 117, tab. vi., 86. 
 
 Female: Total length, 14.5 mm.; abdomen, 8.8 mm. long, 7.5 mm. wide; cephalo- 
 thorax, 7 mm. long, 5.7 mm. wide; face, 2.9 mm. wide. 
 
 Cepiialothorax : Corselet moderately arched; median fosse large; cephalic suture dis- 
 tinct; mouth parts, palps, legs, and sternum dark reddish brown, and well covered with 
 white hairs. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated; front about as wide as sides, and a little wider than 
 rear; MF separated by about 1.7.5 diameter; MR somewhat smaller, and separated by about 
 their diameter; side eyes not contiguous; on tubercles; SF a little smaller than SR, and 
 removed from MF by about 1.75 area of latter. Front eye row slightly, rear row distinctly, 
 procurved ; clypeus about 2 MF high. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 24.4 mm., 22.3 mm., 21.C mm., 14.5 mm.; with both 
 median and distal brown annuli; stout; metatarsi-I, II, III, shorter than their tibiae; well 
 armored with hairs and bristles, and yellowish white spines, with brown bases. 
 
 Abdomen: Ovate; .with conical shoulder humps; the dorsum arched to the distal 
 spinnerets; ground color yellow, densely covered with small brown lines and spots; folium 
 indented at the margin, wide in front, narrowing to the apex, color brown, with slashes of 
 black or blackish. On the basal front is a median yellowish spot; the sides are streaked 
 with brown undulating bands inclined towards the spinnerets. The venter is covered with 
 whitish hairs; is brown, with two indistinct small light bands bent towards each other. 
 The pubescence, which is very dense upon the whole abdomen, consists of whitish bristles 
 with dark base, and shorter ones, mostly curved, brown at the base and yellowish at the tip. 
 
 Distribution: New England, New York in the Adirondacks and central parts, Penn- 
 sylvania, Eastern Ohio; Dr. Marx reports it at Washington, D. O, Colorado, and Fort 
 Yukon, Alaska. It may be distinguished with some degree of accuracy from E. angulata 
 by the form of the ocular quad, which is relatively higher and less narrowed behind; the 
 difference between MF and MR in size is also less pronounced ; moreover, the epigynum is 
 relatively wider at the base, longer, narrower, and more attenuated, terminating in a slightly 
 hollowed tip. Emerton's description is not satisfactory ; he makes no mention of the eyes, 
 and presents no figure thereof; his drawing of the epigynum does not appear. to be accu- 
 rate, at least I am not able to find any specimens marked as figured by him ; in the absence 
 of a typical specimen one is therefore unable to sharply indicate distinctive characteristics. 
 
 No. 46. Epeira diademata (Ci.ehck). Plate X, Fig. 10; PI. XI, Figs. 10, 11. 
 
 1678. Araneus rufus cruciger, Lister . . De Aran. Angl., p. 28, tit. 2, Fig. 2. 
 
 1757. Araneus diademalus, Clerck . . . Aran. Suec., p. 25, No. 2, pi. 1, Fig. 4; Araneus 
 
 Peleg, ib., pi. 1, Fig. 5, p. 27. 
 
 1778. Aranea cruciger, De Geer .... Mem. Hist. Ins., t. 7, p. 218, No. 1, pi. ii., f. 3, 6, 7. 
 
 1793. " Crown spider," Martyn .... Aranei, pi. 2, Fig. 5. 
 
 1802. AraMa ,Vi/«7nVf, Walckenaer . . Faune Parisienne, t. 2, p. 193, No. 8 ; ibid., A. dia- 
 
 dema, p. 193, 9. 
 
 1806. Epeira diudema, Walckenaer . . Araneldes de France, pi. 10, Fig. 3. 
 
 1830. Epeira diadema, Sundevall . . . Svenska Spindlarness, p. 235, No. 2. 
 
 1834. Epeira diadema, Hahn Die Arach., ii., 22, pi. 45, f. 110. 
 
 1837. Epeira diadema, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 29. 
 
 1850. Epeira diadema, Kocn Die Arach., xi., 103, t. 384, f. 910. 
 
 1861. Aranea diadema, Linnjeus . . . Fauna Suecica, ed."2, 1993. 
 
 1861. Epeira diademata, Westrino . . . Aranea; Svecicse, p. 26. 
 
 1864. Epeira diadema, Black-wall . . Sp. Gt. B. & I., ii., p. 358, pi. 26, Fig. 258. 
 
 I860. 'Epeira diademata, Tiiorell . . . P^urop. Spiders, p. 53. 
 
 1889. Epeira diademata, McCook . . . Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 189 
 
 Female: Total length, 14 mm.; abdomen, i) mm. long, 7.5 mm. broad; cephalothorax, 
 G mm. long, 5 — wide ; face, 2 mm. wide. The colors vary much. I have collected speci- 
 mens in England, Scotland, and Wales having the bright yellows shown in the plates; but 
 have taken othere in Norway with dark or blackish folial colors. 
 
 Ceimiai.otiiorax : Corselet oval ; color orange brown, with a yellow marginal band, 
 lateral stripes ; fosse, a longitudinal slit, with deeper indentation in the centre ; corselet 
 grooves sufficiently distinct; cephalic suture deep; caput depressed at the face; slightly 
 pubescent. Sternum cordate, hairy, with sternal cones, elevated in the centre; brownish 
 color. Labium and maxilte as in Epeira; color brown, wilh yellowish tips. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated; wider in front than behind; eyes not greatly different in 
 size; MF separated by about two diameters; MR by about one. Side eyes on tubercles; not 
 contingent; SF (round) larger than SR (oval), somewhat smaller than MR; separated from 
 MF by about 1.3 area of the latter. Front row slightly recurved, rear row longer and pro- 
 curved ; height of elypeus about two diameters MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; orange yellow, with brown annuli at tips of joints; well armored with 
 gray bristles and yellow and brown spines on metatarsus; spines with black bases; palps 
 and mandibles orange yellow, the latter conical and parallel. 
 
 Abdomen : Triangular ovate ; longer than broad ; dorsum arched to the apex and some- 
 what flattened ; apical wall high, perpendicular, and almost as thick as the base. The color 
 varies from velvety brown to yellowish gray, with numerous yellowish white bristlelike 
 hairs. Between the shoulder humps on the basal front is a yellow cruciform marking, 
 interrupted in its members at their crossing. The folium has an interrupted scalloped 
 margin of yellow receding towards the apex. On the sides are lateral lines of yellow, and 
 longitudinal ribbons of yellow mottled with brown. Further down the sides are dark 
 brown, covered thickly with yellowish hairs. The ventral pattern is a broad rectangular 
 ribbon of brown, lighter in the centre, and flanked on cither side by a broad yellow ribbon, 
 which extends with an interruption around the brown spinnerets. The epigynum (Plate 
 XL, 10, lOd) has a long wrinkled scapus, broadest at the base, but somewhat diminished 
 towards the tip, which is rounded and spooned. 
 
 Male: I have no male of this species from America, and the only specimen in my 
 collection from Ireland (Mr. Thomas Workman) is much damaged. I have therefore given 
 in Plate XL, Figs. 11, 11a, Black wall's figure of this sex, correcting, however, the defective 
 drawing of the second leg, whose tibia is more robust, and provided with two parallel rows 
 of short, strong, black clasping spines on the anterior surface. The male bears a marked 
 resemblance to the female, but is smaller, 8 mm. 
 
 Distribution: I have specimens from Minnesota (Mr. Ainsley), Wisconsin (Professor 
 Peckham) ; Dr. Marx has specimens from Vancouver's Island on the west and Newfoundland 
 on the east. It is not improbable that this species has been introduced from Europe by 
 immigrants, inasmuch as so few examples have been reported. It, however, is fixed upon 
 our shores, and may be expected to occur along the northern tier of States and Territories 
 from ocean to ocean, and in the future will doubtless be distributed southward at least to 
 the semitropical States. E. diademata is one of the longest and best known species of 
 Europe, where it is common, and is known as the " Cross Spider." It is probably found in 
 the contiguous parts of Africa and Asia. It has been the subject of numerous studies by 
 anatomists and histologists, having been generally accepted as the representative type of 
 Orbweavers. 
 
 No. 47. Epeira Peckhamii, new species. Plate XVIII, Figs. 5, 6. 
 
 Female: Total length, li mm. ; abdomen, 4.5 mm. long, 3.5 mm. wide across the base; 
 cephalothorax, 2.5 long, 2 wide. On my first casual study of this species it seemed to me a 
 Zilla, and is so named in the plate, which was printed before closer study disclosed my error. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet oval, almost as wide as long; rounded at the edges; elevated 
 in the centre; fosse a deep circular pit; corselet grooves indistinct; cephalic suture well 
 
190 AMERICAN SPIDERS ANT) THEIR SPINNING WORK. 
 
 marked ; color yellowish brown, darker at the fosse, and with four stripes of brown upon 
 the caput. The caput ia about as high as the corselet at its base, but is depressed at its 
 lace, which is yellow and slightly pubescent; the bead, like the corselet, is glossy. The 
 sternum is but little longer than broad, heart shaped, blackish brown, with sternal cones, 
 with tufts of long bristlelike hairs. Labium short, semicircular, about one-third the height 
 of the maxillffi, which are gibbous, rather longer than wide. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated only in front; the rear wider than the front, and the sides 
 longer than either ; eyes are about equal in size ; MF separated by less than one diameter, 
 while MR are separated by about one diameter. Side eyes are contingent; placed on a 
 black patch, with a slight tubercle. The space between SF and MF is noticeably greater 
 than that between MF, and is little greater than the area of SF, and about equals the space 
 between SR and MR; front row recurved, rear row slightly longer and procurved ; clypeus 
 height about 1.5 diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; relatively long and thin, narrowing much toward the feet; color 
 yellow, with slight brownish annuli at the joints. The leg armature is rather sparse ; long 
 aculeate spines are scantily distributed on the femora and tibia. The antenna; are marked 
 and colored as the legs. Mandibles conical, parallel, but little separated at the tips. 
 
 Abdomen : Oval, somewhat wider at the base than the apex ; slight, rounded shoulder 
 humps; the dorsum arched; color shining cretaceous or yellowish; the folial margin drawn 
 in black or blackish brown, and irregularly undulating, with a median cretaceous herring- 
 bone pattern, which blends with the cretaceous color on the front. Branching longitudinal 
 lines pass from near the base to the spinnerets, which are distal. An irregular band of 
 cretaceous yellow, which, however, is sometimes greenish, marks the sides, and beyond this 
 is a mottled band of black and brown. The ventral pattern is a long blackish band, which 
 includes the spinnerets, flanked on either side by a yellowish ribbon, which passes around 
 the spinnerets in interrupted patches. The epigynum is without scapus, and might be 
 described as a simple short scoop, whose convexity is directed toward the spinnerets. 
 
 Male: Fig. 6. In general form and marking resembles the female. Length, 5 mm.; 
 legs long; uniform brownish yellow, sparsely pubescent, a few spinous bristles underneath 
 femora and tibia; about three rows of long, rather slight spines on femora and tibia, also 
 on the inside of metatarsus-I a row of four spines; no special clasping spines or thickening 
 on tibia— II. The palp (Fig. 6a) has a well rounded dark brown digital joint almost as long 
 as the cubital and humeral ; the femoral joint is as long as the three terminal ones. The 
 basal processes of the digital joint are much specialized. The mandibles are rather stout 
 and widely separated at the tips ; the sternum shield shape, wide at the base, narrowing 
 at the apex, somewhat longer than wide, with strong sternal cones before coxre-II, III; 
 color blackish brown, with a lighter shade or yellowish in the middle ; labium subtriangular, 
 about one-half the length of the maxilla?, which are decidedly longer than wide, and- about 
 the same width throughout. 
 
 Distribution : Wisconsin, male and female, sent by Professor Peckham. Dr. Marx has 
 sent me specimens from Biscayne Bay, Fla. These widely separated points would indicate 
 a general distribution over the Middle United States. 
 
 No. 48. Epeira nephiloides Cambridge. Plate XIV, Figs. 5, 6; PI. XXII, Figs. 3, 3a-c. 
 1889. Epeira nephiloides, Cambridge . . Biol. Cent. Amer., Aran., p. 32, vii., 1, 2. 
 
 Female: Total length, 10.5 mm.; cephalothorax, 4.5 mm. long, 3.75 mm. wide, 2 mm. 
 at the face ; abdomen, G.5 mm. long, 4 mm. wide across the base, narrowing to 2 mm. at 
 the apex. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Cordate, truncated and indented at the base; corselet edges rounded, 
 flat on the summit; the fosse semicircular; corselet grooves sufficiently distinct; cephalic 
 suture distinct; color (in alcohol) dull yellow, with streakings of brown from the corselet 
 along middle of caput; slightly pubescent; a few long gray hairs at the caput base, which 
 is lowly arched upon a level with the corselet, and slightly depressed at the face. Sternum 
 
DESCRIPTION OK GENEKA AND SPECIES. 191 
 
 broadly shield shaped, the edges rounded, and apex obtusely triangular ; sternal cones long 
 and distinct; the centre raised, and opposite the labium well elevated; color brownish 
 yellow, somewhat darker at margins; covered sparsely with dark bristlelike hairs; labium 
 subtriangular, thick, and large, more than half the height of maxilhe, which are obtusely 
 triangular at tip, rounded at sides, somewhat longer than wide; labium and maxilhe brown. 
 with yellow tips. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a squarish prominence, more decided in front; quad front 
 slightly wider than rear, and almost equal to sides. The single specimen from which 1 
 describe has an abnormal formation of MF eyes, one being twice as large as the other; its 
 normal form I cannot therefore determine; the small MF eye is much less than MR, and 
 the larger one is somewhat larger. According to Cambridge " the fore central eyes are 
 almost as large as the hind centrals." The side eyes are about equal in size, separated by 
 about a radius; SF from MF by about 1.5 area of latter, or at least twice or more the 
 intervening space. The distance between MR and SR is greater. Clypeus height about 1.3 
 diameter of large MF eye, or twice diameter SF; margin with a row of white bristles; front 
 row slightly recurved, rear row procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 3, 4; color yellow, or orange yellow, with blackish apical annuli at ends 
 of tibia and metatarsus; a broad black median annulus on metatarsus, and a lighter one 
 on tibia; the femora are without annuli, but have a deeper hue of yellow; armored rather 
 sparingly with short yellowish spines, and abundantly with bristles and hairs; the palps 
 yellow, with a slight brownish tinge at the tip; provided with curved spines and bristles; 
 the mandibles long, conical, arched at the base, with decided basal cog and a slight 
 swelling about the middle ; color yellowish brown at base, darker brown at tips, glossy and 
 pubescent on inner sides. 
 
 Abdomen : Triangular ovate, much wider at base and narrowing toward apex, which 
 is rounded ; spinnerets distal ; dorsum slightly arched at the base, but rather flat on top ; 
 dorsal field a yellow, gourd shaped pattern, without other marks, covered quite freely with 
 long, white, bristlelike hairs. The sides (Plate XXII., Fig. 4) are marked by long tooth- 
 like streaks of yellow; the venter (Plate XXII., Fig. 5) has a broad, black, central band 
 irregularly oval, surrounded on all sides by a belt of yellow, which also encompasses the 
 spinnerets in a broken ring; spinnerets orange brown, bases blackish brown. The epigynum 
 shows an atriolum but little prominent, a scapus short, wide at the base, and diminishing 
 at the rounded tip, covered beneath with short gray hairs. This organ, as figured by 
 Cambridge (Plate XIV., Fig. 6b) is much longer and narrower than in the specimen 
 before me. 
 
 Distribution : Fort Canby, N. M., Santa Barbara, Cal. (Marx Collection.) Cambridge 
 describes it from various points in Guatemala. In some of the specimens from Central 
 America the legs are bright burnt sienna in color, and the abdomen is emerald green, 
 closely dotted with minute chrome yellow spots ; over all a very dark cellular network of 
 dark lines. (See Fig. 6.) 
 
 No. 49. Epeira spinigera Cambridge. Plate XIV, Figs. 3, 4. 
 
 1889. Epeira spinigera, Cambridge . . . Biolog. Cent. Amer., Aran., p. 43, v., 9, 10. 
 
 Female: Total length, 9 mm.; cephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 2.3 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 G mm. long, 4 mm. wide. General colors: the fore part of the body a uniform orange 
 yellow; abdomen, a pale yellow and black. In the elevation of the head, the character of 
 the mouth parts, the wide space between MF and SF, and the thornlike abdominal 
 tubercles this species resembles Wagneria tauricornis ; but the curvature of the eyes, the 
 form and spinous armature of legs are different, and more closely approach Epeira. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Oval; corselet rounded at margins; fosse a lateral pit curved back- 
 ward; corselet grooves indistinct; cephalic suture very distinct; caput highly arched above 
 the level of the corselet; head quadrate; face wide and strong; color, orange yellow, with 
 flecks of brown on the corselet and base of caput; covered with short, yellowish white 
 
192 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 hairs. Sternum cordate, one-half longer than broad, with sternal cones, color yellow, 
 numerous bristlelike hairs; labium dark brown at the base; maxillre gibbous, longer than 
 broad, bluntly triangular at the tips, which are inclined inward. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated; length somewhat greater than width, rear slightly wider 
 than front; MF separated by about one diameter; MR about 1.5 their diameter; side eyes 
 on black tubercles ; barely contingent ; SF somewhat larger than SR ; SF removed from MF 
 by about 2.5 the area of the latter, or at least five or six times the intervening space of 
 same; SR removed from MR by a slightly greater distance than separates SF and MF; 
 clypeus height about two diameters MF, the base of the rounded eminence coining close to 
 the margin; the front row is scarcely curved, the eyes aligned; the rear row is a little 
 longer and slightly procurved ; the forehead is high and well rounded. 
 
 Legs: 1, 4-2, 3; rather short, but drawn too short and pointed in the figure; stout; 
 color dull (greenish) yellow, except the feet, which are brown; well provided with 
 pubescence and whitish yellow bristles, somewhat sparingly with rather short yellowish 
 brown spines; palps armed and colored as the legs; mandibles strong, conical, yellow, with 
 slight brown at the tips. 
 
 Abdomen: A long triangular ovate, widest at the summit of the base; the front raised 
 high above the cephalothorax ; the dorsum not arched, but rather flat or curved inward to 
 the apex, which terminates in a rounded cone or caudal part, although Cambridge describes 
 this part as "not in a caudal form." Strong conical shoulder humps, which terminate in 
 sharp brown points, mark the base; the folium is not distinct; the general field is yellow, 
 reticulated, with brownish margins, from which issue longitudinal lines to the apex, which 
 is touched with blackish brown, and covered with a tuft of yellowish hairs; the spinnerets 
 are placed far underneath the projecting apex of the abdomen, brown in color, surrounded 
 by a base of yellowish spots; the venter is brown, with marginal ribbons of yellow merg- 
 ing into the sides, which are brown, with yellowish lateral patches; the epigynum presents 
 a subtriangular cup shaped scapus, very wide at the base, rounded at the top, brown and 
 chitinous; the basal part thereof is an irregular quadrilateral, somewhat wrinkled; smooth 
 and hollowed on the lower part, like the scapus. Cambridge's drawings of this seem very 
 defective, probably from an immature species. 
 
 Distribution: Biscayne Bay; two specimens, female. (Marx Collection.) Cambridge 
 describes it from Panama. The species is thus probably distributed along the coasts of 
 Central and subtropical North America. 
 
 Genus MARXIA, new. 
 
 I have thought it necessary to make a new genus to receive the species originally 
 described by Walckenaer as Plectana stellata. Subsequent writers have relegated this 
 species to Epeira, on the grounds of the strong likeness in the mouth parts, the general 
 grouping of the eyes, and form of the legs. The peculiar tuberculated condition of the 
 abdomen has not been regarded by these authors as of general value. To me it seems 
 unreasonable that an organ of such prominence, which contains the vital organs, and 
 especially the spinning apparatus, by whose functions the animal is most sharply differen- 
 tiated from members of its class, and, indeed, all other animals, should count for nothing 
 in classification. It has been urged that the abdomen, by its softer covering, is more 
 plastic, and therefore presumably more liable to changes, through environment and other 
 influences, than the harder cephalothorax. Yet I have not found that, in point of fact, 
 the abdomen is less persistent in its peculiar forms, as characteristic of various species, 
 than other parts. 
 
 I have therefore considered that a peculiarity so striking as that shown in the tuber- 
 culated margins of the dorsal field, if not sufficient ground in itself for separating these 
 specimens from Epeira, at least should be considered as one distinctive feature. In addi- 
 tion, however, Marxia is well separated from Epeira by the form of the cephalothorax, 
 which is strongly elevated at the caput above the corselet. In Epeira, on the contrary, the 
 head is on a level with the crest of the corselet, or more frequently depressed therefrom. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 193 
 
 Moreover, the eyes of Marxia are removed from the margin of the clypeus by a space 
 equal to four or more times their diameter, making a high clypeus; whereas in Epeira the 
 midfront eyes are close to the clypeus margin, not being separated usually more than 2 or 
 2.5 diameters, and often less, making thus a low clypeus. Further, both eye rows are 
 decidedly procurved, which is the case with the front row of Epeira alone. Again, the 
 typical species of Marxia is distinguished from the typical Epeira by the peculiar furry 
 covering of the caput and margin of the cephalothorax, and especially of the abdomen. 
 The latter organ is so closely covered that the skin is entirely concealed in parts thereof. 
 Moreover, the skin of the abdomen is marked by symmetrically arranged rows of hard, 
 smooth circular spots or dimples, resembling those which are found in Acrosoma. Upon 
 these differences 1 found the genus Marxia ; the diagnosis in other respects corresponding 
 with that of Epeira. 
 
 No. 50. Marxia stellata (Walckenaer). Plate XII, Figs. 4, 5. 
 
 1805. Plectana stellata, Walckenaer . . Tabl. d'Aran., p. 65, Fig. 54. 
 
 1837. Plectana stellata, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., 171. (Bosc, Carolina Spiders.) i 
 
 1850. Epeira stellata, Hentz J. B. S., p. 22; Id., Sp. U. S., p. 125, xiv., 12. 
 
 1864. Epeira stellata, Keyserling . . . Beschr. n. Orbitel., p. 140, vi., 24, 25. 
 
 1884. Epeira stellata, Emerton . . . . N. E. Ep., 319, xxxiv., 17; xxxvii., 3, 4, 5. 
 
 1889. Epeira stellata, McCook Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork, Vol. I. 
 
 1890. Epeira stellata, Marx Catalogue, p. 548. 
 
 Female: Length varies in adults, but described specimen measures 12 mm.; cephalo- 
 thorax, 5 mm. long, 4 mm. wide; abdomen, 11 mm. long, 9 mm. wide, measuring from the 
 tips of the cones in front and rear. 
 
 Cephalothorax: A rounded oval, truncated and indented at the base, high in the 
 middle, sharply sloping from crest to base ; caput squarely truncate at base, well arched to 
 the head, which is much elevated and bulging at the sides, forming low humps; fosse a 
 lateral pit ; color varying from reddish brown to yellowish brown, and provided, partic- 
 ularly along the head and margin of the clypeus, with thick, golden yellow, plumelike hairs. 
 The sternum is shield shaped, rather rounded at the edges, somewhat longer than wide ; 
 with sternal cones; elevated and flat in the middle; heavily clothed with strong, yellowish 
 white, bristlelike hairs ; color brown, with a broad median patch of yellow or yellowish 
 brown. Labium subtriangular, half the height of the maxilke, which are rounded on the 
 outer margins and bluntly triangular on the tips; as wide as or wider than long; color 
 brown, with yellowish tips. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a high prominence; glossy yellowish brown, smooth within the 
 eye space, but covered at the base with plumelike golden yellow hairs, which extend along 
 the face, and are longer and stronger at the margin of the clypeus, a heavy cluster marking 
 the middle point thereof. The quad is somewhat narrower behind than in front, where it 
 is about equal to the sides in length ; MF separated by about two diameters, MR by about 
 1.5; slightly smaller, and on black bases; side eyes on the outer side of strong tubercles, 
 separated by their radius or more; of nearly equal size, though SF appears somewhat 
 larger. 1 Both rows are procurved; the clypeus is high, the margin being separated from 
 MF by 1.3 their area, or at least 2.5 times their intervening space. The distance between 
 MF and SF is twice the area of MF. 
 
 Legs: 1,2,4,3; color yellow, with dark brown wide median and apical annuli; clothed 
 with hairs and bristles, and rather sparsely with strong, rather short, yellowish spines, par- 
 ticularly on the basal joints. The palps are stout, armed and colored as the legs ; the 
 mandibles conical, wide, arched at the base, which project beyond the margin of the 
 clypeus, and are covered with short white hairs similar to those on the face; color dark 
 glossy brown. 
 
 1 In the specimen the rear eye is lacking upon one side, but the normal number is upon the other. 
 
194 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Abdomen: Somewhat longer than wide, semiglobose, and provided with a number of 
 conical tubercles disposed as follows: One on the middle front of the base, projecting for- 
 ward over the corselet; one upon the apex immediately opposite the frontal cone; on the 
 shoulders a double cone, which appears sometimes as simply a tubercle with a cleft top, but 
 again as two distinct cones flattened against each other on their contiguous faces. On each 
 side, symmetrically arranged on the margin of the dorsal field between the shoulder cones 
 and the dorsal apical cone, are three tubercles, somewhat smaller than the above described. 
 On the rear of the abdomen, and immediately beneath the dorsal posterior one, is a tubercle 
 corresponding with those upon the sides. We have thus in all eleven tubercles, counting 
 each of those upon the shoulders as one, or thirteen, counting each shoulder cone as two. 
 These are colored yellow, as is the dorsal field, and are provided with small yellowish 
 white plumose hairs, which are also profusely scattered over the surface of the abdomen, 
 giving a furry appearance thereto. The folium varies in different individuals, being in some 
 rather indistinct, consisting of a triangular patch of brown or brownish yellow, extending 
 from between the shoulders to the apical cone, toward which it narrows. In other speci- 
 mens, particularly in young examples, is a well marked triangular patch. With all but 
 gravid specimens the frontal cone appears rather depressed toward the cephalothorax, mak- 
 ing a triangular space, of which it is the apex, the sides drawn thence to the shoulder cones, 
 thus dividing the frontal from the dorsal field. When the specimen is gravid' this frontal 
 triangle is rounded out and does not appear so conspicuous. Frequently two lines of yellow 
 diverge from this frontal cone backward, surrounding a triangular patch of brown, the base 
 of which terminates between the shoulders; both the dorsum and sides are covered with 
 blackish brown dimples, arranged in rows more or less symmetrically, and extending 
 around the front and sides. The venter has a broad brownish patch, marked with bands 
 of yellow ; the epigynum (Fig. 4b) has a rather wide atriolum, brown, glossy, chitinous, the 
 scapus not prominent, but sufficiently distinct, of equal length throughout, but slightly 
 narrower and rounded at the tip, where it curves toward the body ; it is glossy, yellowish 
 brown, with a few hairs at the base, and apparently not grooved. 
 
 Male: Fig. 5. Resembles the female in general form, pattern, and colors, the dorsal 
 folium of the abdomen more particularly approaching the forms of immature females; the 
 number of tubercles is the same. The palpus is well rounded at the digital joint ; a curved 
 spur at the base of cymbium, with a small tooth near its base ; the radial joint wide and 
 bilobed, quite shoe shaped, but short, as is also the rounded cubital. The mandibles an; 
 relatively longer and narrower than in the female, and are not so prominently arched 
 toward the base. Tibia-II is not thickened or provided with clasping spines, but has throe 
 rows of dark brown ordinary spines surrounding the joint, with several of the same char- 
 acter at the apex. Tibia-I is longer than II and is similarly armored ; coxa-IV has a 
 conical spur at the articulation of the trochanter. 
 
 Distribution : This species has a wide range throughout the United States, my speci- 
 mens tracing it from New England along the Atlantic Coast, through North Carolina and 
 Georgia (Mr. Thomas Gentry), and southward to Florida, westward and northward to Minne- 
 sota and Wisconsin (Professor Peckham), to Missouri and the American plains. 
 
 No. 51. Marxia nobilis (Walckbnabh). ,.„ Plate XII, Figs. 4, 5. <v*»J+»PV?i 
 
 II j 
 
 1842. Epeira nobilis, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. IU-;. Abbot, G. S., No. 161 ; Id., 
 
 E. cerasise, ibid., p. 119; Abbot, G. S., No. 166; 
 Id., K. iris, ib., p. 120; <i. S., No. 336. 
 
 Although I have numbered the above as a species, I regard it simply as a variety of 
 M. stellata, from which it differs chiefly in the number of the conical processes on the 
 abdomen. After carefully considering the original descriptions of Baron Walckenaer, it 
 seems to me necessary that "stellata" should be applied to the form having the less 
 number of tubercles (eleven), and "nobilis" to the form having the greater number. In 
 truth, however, neither in the one case nor the other is Walckenaer correct, for he counls 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 195 
 
 but eight tubercles to Stellate and twelve to Nobilis. Occasionally I find specimens with 
 one less or more than the normal number of eleven or thirteen, this asymmetry always 
 occurring in the row across the apical wall, as in Plate XIII., Fig. 9, x. To Epeira cerasise 
 and E. iris, which I regard as one with the above, he also assigns twelve tubercles. I have 
 both the male and female of this variety in large numbers from Georgia, collected from 
 substantially the same territory as M. stellate. There is much variety in dorsal patterns 
 among immature specimens, a number having a marked broad band of plumose hairs across 
 the middle, as in Plate XIII., Fig. 9. The adult male corresponds with that of M. stellate, 
 except in the additional two small tubercles in the apical row. 
 
 No. 52. Marxia grisea, new species. Plate XIII, Figs. 10, 10a, 10b. 
 
 Female: Total length, 8 mm.; cephalothorax, 4 mm. long, 3.5 mm. wide; face, 2 mm. 
 wide; abdomen, 6.5 mm. long, 5 mm. wide. I have seen but one specimen of this interest- 
 ing species. It closely resembles Marxia stellate, at first glance, in its general appearance, 
 but the clypcus is lower and the arrangement of abdominal tubercles is entirely different. 
 The prominent frontal cone which marks M. stellate is wanting, and the median row of 
 four aligned tubercles along the apex is peculiar to this species. The shoulder cones also 
 are single and not double. 
 
 CEPHALOTHORAX : A rounded oval, truncated behind, flattened and sloping from the 
 crest backward ; the cephalic suture deep, the corselet grooves distinct, the fosse a wide and 
 rather deep lunette overhung by the abdomen. The head is rather quadrate, square in 
 front, divided into two low ridges by a lateral depression passing just behind the ocular 
 quad, giving the head a lumpy appearance. Two small black circular spots, arranged on 
 either side of the median line, mark both the anterior and posterior part of the caput, the 
 latter being in the suture. The corselet is covered with yellowish hairs and the head more 
 sparsely with the same; color yellowish brown. Sternum shield shaped, with conical 
 elevations in front of coxre-I, III ; elevated in the middle, which is marked by a black pelt 
 shaped figure; the margins are yellowish brown. Labium triangular, wider than long; 
 maxillae bluntly triangular at the tip, rounded at the sides, and somewhat longer than wide. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a high prominence, the front about equal in length to the sides 
 and slightly wider than the rear; MF separated about 1.5 diameter; MR, which are slightly 
 smaller, separated by 1.5 diameter. Side eyes upon decided tubercles; SK as large as SF, 
 from which they are separated by at least a diameter, and are placed behind, well to the 
 side. MF are removed from SF by about 1.5 the area of MF. The front row is slightly 
 procurved, as is also the longer rear row. The clypeus height is about two diameters MF. 
 
 Legs: Order of length, 1, 2, 4, 3-; yellow, with brownish bands at the tips of the joints 
 and the middle of the femora. They are heavily clothed with pubescence, with bristles, 
 and numerous white spines with brown bases. The palps are heavily armed with gray 
 bristles, especially upon the last two joints, and colored us the legs. The mandibles are 
 conical, well separated at the tips, where they are dark brown, the bases being yellowish 
 brown, glossy, but provided with yellowish gray bristles. 
 
 Abdomen : A rounded oval, heavily covered with yellowish gray pubescence and 
 plumose hairs. The dorsal margins are marked by ten tubercles arranged in an arc, con- 
 taining five on each side. Four others are arranged along the median line of the apical 
 half of the dorsum, passing over the apex one above another, the anterior one being upon 
 the dorsal field. (Fig. 10a.) There are thus fourteen tubercles in all. There is no tubercle 
 upon the middle front of the base as in M. stellate. The color is yellow, with a scalloped 
 or dentate folium lightly edged with brown, and a dark median band passing along the 
 entire dorsal fieW, which widens at the apex, over which it passes to the spinnerets. The 
 venter is an interrupted yellowish broad band. The epigynuin (Fig. 10b) scapus has a wide 
 triangular base, with a long stalk, flat on lower surface, of equal width for most of its 
 length, and terminating in a rounded point. 
 
 Distribution': Biscayne Bay, Florida. (Marx Collection.) 
 
196 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 No. 53. Marxia mcesta (Keyserling). Plate XII, Figs. 11, lla-c. 
 
 1889. Epeira maesta, Marx in lilt. . . . Catalogue, p. 546. 
 
 1892. Epeira mosta, Keyserling .... Spinn. Amerk., Epeir., p. 108, Fig. 80. 
 
 Female: Total length, 11 mm.; cephalothorax, 5 mm. long, 3.5 mm. wide, 2.5 mm. at 
 the face; ahdomen, 9 mm. long, 8 mm. wide across the base, narrowing to 1.5 mm. at 
 the face. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Oval, well rounded at the sides, truncate behind, where it is over- 
 hung by the abdomen; corselet grooves sufficiently distinct; cephalic suture well marked, 
 as is" the median fosse. Color dark brown, with lighter band of yellow along the corselet 
 margin; head colored as corselet, and rises from the fosse at a slight inclination; is arched 
 on the posterior and narrower half, and about midway has two knobs, such as appear in 
 other species of the genus ; thence the fore part of the caput is depressed to the central 
 eye space, which turns up into a strong prominence, giving from the side view a snouted 
 appearance to the face. In front the face is wide, but the eye space is distinctly separated 
 from the knobby summit of the caput by the depression above alluded to. Sternum shield 
 shape, well rounded at the sides, subtriangular at the apex, glossy, dark brown, or blackish, 
 elevated in the centre and flattened, with sternal cones, sparsely covered with grayish 
 white hairs, which are thickest on the anterior part; skin hard and glossy. Labium widest 
 at the base, where the color is dark brown, the tip obtusely triangular ; maxilla colored 
 like the lip, rounded, at least as wide as long. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a high prominence, most elevated behind; the rear slightly 
 narrower than the front, which about equals the sides; MF separated by nearly two 
 diameters, about equal to MB, which are separated by a little greater space. Side eyes on 
 tubercles much less prominent relatively than the median one; separated by a diameter of 
 SB, which is smaller than SF. The space between SF and MF equals about twice the area 
 of MF, or 2.3 times the distance between MF. Height of clypeus equals alignment of MF. 
 Both rows viewed from the front are procurved, the hind row more so, and is much longer 
 on account of SB being placed so far to the side ; the margin of the clypeus has yellowish 
 gray bristles. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout; in color dark brown, provided with grayish yellow bristles and 
 spines. The palps are colored and armed as the legs. 
 
 Abdomen : Subtriangular in form, widest at the base, where it is rounded to the front, 
 and far overhangs the cephalothorax. The dorsum is somewhat flattened, and the abdomen 
 is almost as thick at the apex as in front. Two shoulder tubercles mark the base well back 
 of the anterior middle point, leaving thus the fore part of the abdomen as a wide sub- 
 triangular space sloping toward the front, while the remainder of the dorsum slopes some- 
 what, though but little, toward the rear. The apex is marked by a prominent rounded 
 tubercle, resembling those upon the shoulders, but smaller; on either side of this is a 
 similar smaller tubercle, and beneath it on the apical wall of the abdomen are two others 
 in a row, of similar character, but somewhat flattened. The color is yellow, much broken 
 by irregular and lateral black lines upon the sides. Between the shoulder tubercles and 
 the apical ones extends a folium of dark or darkish brown, mottled with yellow reticula- 
 tions, dentated upon the edges and narrowing toward the apex ; an interrupted yellowish 
 band marks the middle of the dorsal field. The basal front has the same black and yellow 
 reticulations that mark the sides. The venter has a broad black band, with lateral mark- 
 ings of yellow at the front; the spinnerets are black, with yellowish spots at the base; the 
 epigynum (Figs, lib, lie) has a well arched atriolum, and a scapus whose base is wide and 
 spooned, giving the edges a horseshoe shape; from its central point issues a long lancco- 
 latcd tip. • 
 
 Distribution: Pike's Peak, Colorado; New Mexico. (Marx Collection.) Only the 
 female of this species is known. The localities in which it has been found would indicate 
 a geographical distribution throughout the Southwestern States and Territories, and prob- 
 ably the Pacific Coast. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 197 
 
 Genus ORDGARIUS, Keyserling. 
 
 The most striking distinctive characteristics of this genus are found in the cephalo- 
 thorax. The corselet is rounded at the margin, but rises with almost perpendicular walls 
 to the crest. The base is sharply truncated, sloping rapidly upward to the crest. The skin 
 is covered with many warts, particularly numerous and marked upon the caput and face. 
 The summit of the caput is distinguished by two castellated prominences, with strong 
 protuberances on either side. The sternum is scutcllatc, somewhat longer than wide ; the 
 labium wide, rather low ; the maxillae as in Epeira, scarcely as long as wide. The 
 eye TOWS are both much procurved; divided into two groups, as in Epeira; the central 
 quad upon a low rounded eminence rising at the base of the bossed forehead ; the pairs 
 placed close together, so that the side of the quad is much shorter than either the front 
 or rear. The side eyes are placed low down upon the face, on large rounded tubercles; 
 the eyes are all small, not greatly differing in size. The clypeus is very high, as is also 
 the forehead ; the middle eyes of the ocular quad are placed a little below the centre of 
 the face. The legs in order of length are 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, provided with bristles and 
 hairs, but without spines. The abdomen is subglobose, as wide as or wider than long, 
 and distinguished by two prominent shoulder humps. 
 
 No. 54. Ordgarius cornigerus (Hentz). Plate XII, Figs, l, la-d. 
 
 1850. Epeira cornigera, Hentz . . . . J. B. S. 20; Id., Sp. U. S., p. 123, xiv., 8. 
 
 1879. Cyrtarachne cornigera, Keyserling Neue Spin. Amer., i., Verhn. d. z. b. Ges. Wien, 
 
 p. 300, iv., 4. 
 
 • 1879. Cyrtarachne bicurvata, Becker . . Ann. Soc. Ent. Belgique, p. 77. 
 
 1889. Cyrtarachne cornigera, McCook . Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vol. II., 97. 
 
 1889. Ordgarius cornigerus, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 541. 
 
 1892. Ordgarius cornigerus, Keyserling. Spinn. Amerk., Epeir., p. 40, ii., 34. 
 
 Female: Total length, 12 mm.; abdomen, 8 mm. long, 8 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 5 mm. long, 4.5 mm. wide. The general colore of the fore part are red or reddish brown 
 and yellow, with dark brown markings. The abdomen is yellow, with dark or brownish 
 markings upon the front. 
 
 Crimialothouax: Bounded at the margin, and rises with almost perpendicular walls 
 to the crest; the base sharply truncated; the skin covered with many warts, particularly 
 numerous and marked on caput and face ; summit of the caput marked by two castellated 
 prominences, each with two strong tubercles on either side. The entire front of the 
 creature presents a peculiar appearance on account of the knobby or warted condition. 
 (Fig. lb.) Sternum shield shape, somewhat longer than wide, has sternal cones, is rounded 
 in the centre, depressed at the base towards the labium, and sparsely covered with hairs ; 
 in some species the color is yellow or dark brown ; in others dark brown. The labium 
 is triangular, rather low, but wide; the maxillae scarcely as long as wide; obtusely tri- 
 angular at the base ; color of labium and maxilla: brown, with yellow tips. 
 
 Eyes: The ocular quad (Fig. lb) is upon a greatly elevated prominence; front shorter 
 than rear, and about equal to sides; MF somewhat larger than MB, separated by about 2.5 
 diameters or more ; MB separated by about three diameters, and divided by a longitudinal 
 notch; side eyes separated by about a radius, not greatly differing in size; set on tubercles, 
 with long bases that extend to the clypeus margin; both rows procurved; rear row longer; 
 clypeus high, twice or more the area of MF; on either side above the mandibles is a 
 rounded hump, much warted. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; very stout, the femora and patella covered with yellowish bristles and 
 hairs, but without spines; color yellow, with dark brown apical and median annuli; palps 
 similarly colored and provided, quite wide and stout; mandibles conical, wide at the base, 
 
198 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWOHK. 
 
 much narrowed at the tips, parallel curved on the anterior surface, receding; dark brown 
 at the base, and yellowish brown beyond. 
 
 Abdomen : As wide as or wider than long, forming a well rounded oval or irregular 
 hemisphere, which is thickest at the base, where it rises up into marked height. (Fig. la, 
 side view.) The crest is surmounted by two large conical tubercles. The front overhangs 
 the cephalothorax, is wide and high ; the apical half is arched towards the spinnerets, which 
 are placed somewhat beneath the apex. The dorsal field is without a folium, is bright 
 yellow, with longitudinal lines passing backward along the muscular pits, which are prom- 
 inent; in some specimens the lines traverse both sides, widening to the venter, giving this 
 part a striped appearance. The front is olive or blackish brown, mottled with yellowish, 
 irregular spots; surface glossy, extremely rugose, marked with numerous black circular pits, 
 arranged laterally in semicircles, curved backward ; these pits are found along the sides and 
 apex, though rather small. The venter has a broad yellow patch, with four or five black 
 circular spots arranged longitudinally, and a wide, brownish, median band, which is wanting 
 in some specimens; the epigynum (Fig. lb) shows a long atriolum, with a tonguelike 
 scapus, short, rounded, and wide at the tip, folded down flat against the genital cleft, almost 
 as though it were attached thereto ; the scapus is brown, the front of the atriolum on either 
 side of the portulae yellow. In one specimen (Fig. lc) in the Marx collection the abdomen 
 is yellowish brown, smooth, showing only two indentations, and the shoulder humps, 
 instead of being well in the front, as above described, are set off at the sides, a result, 
 probably, of the gravid condition of this female. 
 
 Distribution : I have received a number of this species, females, from California, where 
 it appears to be common (Mr. S. R. Orcutt, Mrs. Eigenmann, Mrs. Smith, Dr. Davidson, 
 Dr. Blaisdell) ; and cocoons (Vol. II., page 98) from various localities, ranging from Fort 
 Yukon, Alaska, to San Diego. Becker described it from Louisiana, and Hentz's original 
 description is from Alabama. Dr. Marx records it In the District of Columbia and Virginia. 
 It is, no doubt, distributed throughout the entire Southern States, and along the Pacific 
 Coast in California. Have collected it in Pennsylvania. 
 
 No. 55. Ordgarius bisaccatus (Embbton). Plate XII, Figs. 2, 3. 
 
 1884. Cyrtarachne bisaccatus, Emerton . N. E. Sp., p. 325, pi. xxxiv., Fig. 11. 
 
 1889. Cyrtarachne buaccata, McCook . . Am. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vol. II., p. 95. 
 
 1889. Ordgarius bisaccatus, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 541. 
 
 1892. Ordgarius bisaccatus, Kevserling. Spinn. Amerik., Ep., p. 42, ii., 35. 
 
 Female: Total length, 10 mm.; cephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 3 mm. wide in the middle, 
 and 2 mm. in front; abdomen, 6 mm. long, 7 mm. wide; in front more than half as broad 
 as in the middle. It may at once be distinguished from 0. cornigerus by the absence of 
 shoulder humps. 
 
 Cepitai.othorax : Rounded at margin; fosse concealed behind the face, which rises 
 from the eye space into an exceedingly high subtriangular vertex, terminated on either 
 side of the summit by two rectangular or castellated prominences, cleft at the top into two 
 obtusely pointed cones, the inner ones the longer. The entire face is covered with numer- 
 ous warts, which extend to the summit of the vertical prominences; corselet grooves dis- 
 tinct; cephalic suture indistinct; color of corselet behind, yellow; around cephalic suture, 
 brown ; forehead and head again yellow. Sternum shield shape, somewhat longer than 
 wide; sternal cones in front of coxse-I and III; color yellow; slightly pubescent; base with 
 a semicircular depression next the labium, which is subtriangular, half as long as the 
 maxilla;, which are gibbous, apparently a little longer than wide, and colored as the sternum. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a rounded eminence ; rear slightly wider than front, and the 
 sides shorter than either; MF larger than MR, separated by about 2.5 to 3 diameters, while 
 SB are separated by three or more; rear eyes on tubercles, almost contingent, not greatly 
 differing in size; the space between SF and MF 1.3 area of latter, or about twice or less 
 the intervening space; both rows procurved; the clypeus is high, the margin separated 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENEKA AND SPECIES. 199 
 
 from MF by more than the area of the latter; an oval tubercle marks either side above 
 the articulation of the mandibles, and the whole surface is granulated, the upper part of 
 the eye space containing a few warts. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, especially at the femora, and narrowing at the tips; color 
 yellow, armed with yellowish short hairs and bristles, but without spines ; patella wide, 
 rather flattened ; palps colored and armed as legs ; mandibles conical, parallel, yellow, 
 covered with short hairs, and abundantly with stiff bristles upon the inside. 
 
 Abdomen : Ovate, or irregular hemisphere, wider than long, much thickened at the 
 base; dorsum arched, without shoulder humps; no special folium, but flecks of brown 
 around the dark muscular plates ; color yellow, reticulated lateral stripes on the sides ; 
 ventral pattern, a yellow band extending around the bases of the spinnerets ; the epigynum 
 has a wide atriolum, with a very short semicircular scapus extending between the portulre, 
 like a short flap. . (Fig. 2a.) 
 
 Male: Plate XII., Figs. 3, 3a. 3 mm. long; presents in general the characteristics of 
 the female, in the heart shaped form of the abdomen, wider than long, and in the elon- 
 gated vertex of the face. The forehead, indeed, is relatively higher in the female, and the 
 crest is divided into two simple cones. The legs are yellowish brown ; the abdomen pearly 
 yellow, with a double row of black spots, like muscular pits, arranged longitudinally on 
 either side of the median. The corselet is yellowish brown, and the face and forehead 
 yellow. The palpal digit is globular, brownish yellow. The legs are without spines, but 
 are provided with long bristles, and appear to have no special clasping apparatus. 
 
 Distribution : New England ; District of Columbia. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 Genus VERRUCOSA McCook, 1888. 
 
 In this genus the cephalic suture is deeply marked; the caput rather shortened and 
 much rounded at the sides, narrowed at the base, elevated above the corselet; the face 
 wide and full ; the sternum cordate, somewhat longer than wide ; the labium, maxilla;, 
 and eyes as in Epeira. The abdomen is triangular ovate, flattened upon top, and the 
 apical wall marked by rounded protuberances; the skin is hard and glossy; the epigynum, 
 in the typical species, with a long, narrow scapus extending nearly to the spinnerets. The 
 legs in order of length are 1, 2, 4, 3; stout; the spines long and bristlelike, with the 
 exception of a few at the articulation of the joints. 
 
 Verrucosa differs from Epeira chiefly in the shape and elevation of the head, and the 
 peculiar character of the abdomen, with its flattened dorsum, tuberculated apical wall, some- 
 what hardened skin, and the aculeate and lengthened form of the epigynal scapus. The 
 acute spinous armature of the legs also differs from the stout, rather stubby character of 
 Epeiroid spines. The male has the general characteristics of the female as to the form of 
 the caput and abdomen. The tibia is curved, much swollen at the apex, and provided 
 with a long, strong spur, whose point is armed with two spines. The palpal digit is ovate, 
 and the cubital joint is curved. The spines are longer and with stouter bases than those of 
 the female, and the sternum is relatively wider. 
 
 I have felt justified in retaining for this genus the name published early in 1888, 1 in 
 my first studies of the manuscript drawings of John Abbot, revising the nomenclature of 
 some of Hentz's species. These results were accepted and embodied in his " Catalogue " by 
 Dr. George Marx. In this Catalogue (page 541) he for the first time made public the 
 generic name " Mahadeva," which be attributes to Keyserling (in lilt.), and gives Hentz's 
 Epeira verrucosa as the type. In July, 1889, Cambridge, in his Biologia Centrali-Americana, 
 page 53, adopts this name, credited to Keyserling, but changing the spelling to " Mahadiva." 
 In Keyserling's Spinnen Amerikas, part IV., Epeiridse, page 07, which was not issued until 
 1892, the genus is published as new, under the name used by Marx, and for the first time 
 
 1 Proceedings Academy Natural Sciences, Philadelphia. 
 
200 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 a diagnosis thereof is given. In no one of these works is any reference made to the fact 
 that I had already established for the typical species a new genus. 
 
 It may perhaps be a question whether the mere announcement and tabulating of a 
 genus in connection with a fairly typical species by which it can easily be identified, yet 
 with no further diagnosis, is entitled to credit by araneologists. In point of fact, however, 
 such scant description has frequently been recognized, and there is no reason why the rule 
 of courtesy should be broken in the present instance. If, however, the name Mahadeva has 
 right of priority, it must be conceded to Dr. Marx, who first made it known on his own 
 responsibility, although he generously, as in so many other cases, attributes it to Keyserling. 
 Next to him, Cambridge would certainly have priority over Keyserling, whose publication 
 unhappily did not appear until 1892. In view of the above circumstances I have felt 
 bound, under the laws of priority, to give precedence to Verrucosa as the generic name of 
 this interesting group of spiders, of which I still hold Verrucosa arenata (Hentz) to be 
 the type. 
 
 No. 56. "Verrucosa arenata (Walckenaer). Plate XII, Figs. 6, 7. 
 
 ~ ! 1837. Epeira arenata, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 133; Abbot, G. S., Nos. 165, 181,' 
 
 182, 183, 360. 
 1844. Epeira verrucosa, Hentz .... B. J. S., 19; Sp. U. S., 121, xiv., 2. 
 
 1888. Verrucosa arenata, McCook . . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 5. 
 
 1889. Epeira verrucosa, McCook .... Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 1889. Mahadeva arenata, Marx .... Catalogue, p. 541. 
 
 1889. Mahadiva verrucosa, Cambridge . Biolog. Cent.-Amer., p. 553. 
 
 1892. Mahadeva verrucosa, Keyserling . Spinn. Amerik., Epeir., p. 72, pi. 3, Fig. 56. 
 
 Female: Total length, 9 mm.; cephalothorax, 3.3 mm. long, 2.75 mm. wide, 1.5 mm. at 
 the face; abdomen, 6.5 mm. long, 6 mm. wide across the base, narrowing to 1 mm. at the 
 apex of the dorsum and 3 mm. across the apical wall. The snare is a round orbweb of 
 the ordinary Epei'roid type. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A somewhat elongated oval, truncate at the base, rounded at the 
 sides, the color dull yellow, flecked with brown, varying from thence to brownish, with the 
 head usually brown or ruddy brown; corselet grooves not distinct; cephalic suture deeply 
 marked; fosse a circular depression from which the corselet slopes sharply to the base; the 
 head rather shortened, much rounded at the sides and narrowed at the base ; face wide 
 and full, is glossy brown, with lighter shades around the ocular quad. Sternum shield 
 shape, wide at the base, though somewhat longer than wide, and narrow : ed at the apex ; 
 with sternal cones; glossy blackish brown; somewhat pubescent; labium large, wide at the 
 base, which is brown, subtriangular at the tip, which is yellow; maxillae as wide as long, 
 rounded at the tips, brown, glossy. 
 
 Eyes : Fig. 6b. Ocular quad on a squarish eminence, most prominent in front ; front 
 wider than rear and about equal in length to the sides; MF somewhat larger than MR, 
 separated by about 1.5 diameter, on separate tubercles, the front of the quad being divided 
 by a notch; MR separated by about one diameter. Side eyes on tubercles; SF larger than 
 SR, divided by about or less than a radius; SF separated from MF by about 1.3 the area of 
 the latter, or more than twice the intervening space thereof; clypeus height about 1.5 MF, 
 the ocular eminence approaching almost to its margin; front row recurved; rear row 
 slightly procurved, resembling thus the eyes of Epeira. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, yellow, glossy, with bright brown or orange apical and median 
 annuli, abundantly provided with strong yellowish bristles and hair, and with acute 
 yellowish spines; palps colored and armored as legs; mandibles glossy brown, conical, 
 arched, widely divergent at the tips, slightly pubescent. 
 
 Abdomen : Triangular ovate ; almost as wide at the base as long ; the dorsum flat, 
 except in gravid specimens, when it becomes slightly arched ; is marked along either side 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 201 
 
 by shoulder humps, presents a triangular folium that covers the entire surface, being ordi- 
 narily a bright yellow, with beautiful rose-colored or red reticulations. On some of the 
 specimens a brownish line, with curved side branches, passes along the median ; the front 
 overhangs the cephalothorax, is rounded, brown, mottled with yellow, showing often rosy 
 hues. The side (Fig. 6a) in some specimens is very beautiful, a reticulated yellow, with 
 stripes of vermilion or lake. The dorsum terminates in a rounded cone, and just under- 
 neath this on the apical wall is a second rounded tubercle, and beneath this a third, 
 rather flattened; on either side of this median row are two similar rounded tubercles; the 
 sides in some specimens are roughened or indented; the whole surface of the skin is 
 glossy, and is covered rather scantily with long whitish yellow hairs. The venter is a 
 blackish brown patch, which encompasses the spinnerets, which are black and much over- 
 hung by the abdomen ; the epigynum (Fig. 6c) has a long needlelike scapus, glossy brown 
 in color, narrow at the base, pointed at the tip, which extends from the narrow atriolurn 
 entirely to the spinnerets; the portute show on either side as compressed openings into 
 the genital cleft. 
 
 Male: 6 mm. long; cephalothorax yellowish brown, face much projecting beyond the 
 mandibles, which are decidedly weaker than in the female, retreating backward and widely 
 divergent at the tips; legs yellow, with lighter brown annuli ; provided with numerous long 
 yellow spines, especially formidable underneath femora-I, II ; tibia-II is curved, and pro- 
 vided at the apex with a most remarkable series of clasping spines, one of which is a 
 strong, long spur, thick at the base, which is covered with curved bristles, pointed at the 
 tip into two dark pointed spines, one longer than the other; beyond this spur on either 
 side is a low process which contains two shortened curved brown spines; the apex itself is 
 much thickened, and has one strong curved brown spine ; besides these are a number of 
 long :acute brownish spines. The abdomen is triangular ovate, and has the characteristic 
 markings and tubercles of the female, but less decidedly. The palps (Fig. 7a) are brownish 
 yellow in color; the digit an elongated oval, the cubital joint much curved, longer than the 
 radial joint, which is quite short. 
 
 Distribution : I have collected this species in the neighborhood of Philadelphia, where, 
 however, it is not common ; in New Jersey and Ohio ; and have it from as far west as the 
 American Plains. Abbot took it in Georgia, Ilentz in Alabama and North Carolina. Marx 
 reports it from Florida (Cresson City), Utah (Spring Lake), California (Occidental). The 
 species is thus widely distributed over the United States. I have specimens collected by 
 the late Mr. W. H. Gabb from San Domingo varying in but slight particulars from those 
 above described. The species is doubtless well distributed throughout the West Indies ; 
 and the States of Central and South America contain species closely resembling it. 
 
 No. 57. Verrucosa vmistriata, new species. Plate V, Figs. 3, 3a-c. 
 
 Female: Body length, 11 mm.; abdomen, 9 mm. long, 7 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 5 nun. long, 5 mm. wide. The general colors are, for the fore part of the body yellow, 
 with orange or rose tints on the legs, and for the abdomen grayish yellow, with a prom- 
 inent median band of a bright yellow or yellowish white. 
 
 Cei'iialotiiorax : A rounded oval, the corselet margin almost circular; color yellowish 
 brown, with a dark or median band of brown, which passes through two large patches of 
 brown, apparently on a depressed spot in the centre of the caput. The head more than 
 half as wide as the corselet, sloping gradually to the face; moderately pubescent, with 
 long, gray, bristlelike hairs scattered over the surface; corselet grooves distinct; cephalic 
 suture well marked. Sternum little longer than wide, attenuated at the apex, raised in the 
 middle, with prominent sternal cones, especially before coxre-III and in front of the 
 labium; color dark brown, with a yellowish brown median patch. Labium obtusely tri- 
 angular, thickened at the base, more than half as long as the maxillse; maxilla; longer 
 than broad, subtriangular at the tip, and tipped with yellowish white. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated, a little wider in front than rear, the length greater than 
 width; MF separated about 1.5 to 2 diameters; MR smaller than MF, and separated one 
 
202 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 diameter; side eyes on tubercles; tufts of strong gray bristles, like eyebrows, behind them; 
 SF about equal in size to MR; SR decidedly smaller than SF, and not quite contingent; 
 MF separated from SF by about 1.3 to 1.5 their area; MR from SR 2.3 their alignment. 
 The front row scarcely procurved, rear row procurved and longer; long, gray bristles mark 
 the margin of the clypeus, which is about 1.5 diameter of MF in height. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; the fourth leg scarcely as strong and long relatively as in Epeira; 
 color yellow, with bright rose tints on the femora-I, II, intermingled with orange hues; 
 annuli at joints, and lighter color median anntili underneath tibia and metatarsus; well 
 clothed with long, gray bristles and hairs, and with numerous long, light colored spines, 
 with brownish bases; the hairs on the feet and metatarsus are strong and bristlelike, and 
 are curved outward; palps colored and armored as the legs; mandibles conical, arched at 
 the bases, which are provided with gray bristles; color yellow, diffused with orange brown 
 at the tips. 
 
 Abdomen: Subtriangular, slightly overhangs the cephalothorax, broad at the base, 
 slightly tapering towards the apex, flat on the dorsum; spinnerets beneath the apical wall; 
 color grayish yellow, marked by lateral stripes on the side, and punctuated by dots of 
 brownish color on the dorsum. The median line is strongly characterized by an inter- 
 rupted band, consisting of three parts, extending about two-thirds of the length ; its upper 
 section is rounded, and has projections at either end, the central part is rectangular, and 
 the third division is a round spot ; the median is marked by a few spots and lines. The 
 ventral pattern is black, an irregular quadrilateral, margined by a rather narrow and 
 reticulated yellow band. The epigynum is bright yellow and dark brown, with a remark- 
 ably long scopus, broad at the base and tapering to a point, the length extending almost 
 from the insertion to base of the spinnerets. Although the head of this species is more 
 depressed than in the typical Verrucosa and the spinous armature is stronger, in both 
 these particulars resembling Epeira, yet other characters seem to justify placing it in this 
 genus. 
 
 Distribution : Fort Yuma, Arizona. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 Genus KAIRA Cambridge, 18S9. 
 
 In Kaira the cephalothorax is triangular ovate, widest near the base, sharply 
 shelving to the crest, where the corselet is highest, thence sloping forward with consider- 
 able inclination toward the face, the caput thus being decidedly depressed. The sternum, 
 is longer than wide, and the labium wider than long, as are also the maxillse. The rear 
 eyes of the ocular quad are little elevated, are less than the front; the relative spaces 
 between the side eyes and the middle group are as in Epeira, as is the curvature of the 
 rows, the front being recurved and the rear procurved. The clypeus is of moderate height, 
 but the high elevation of the quad separates the midfront well from the margin thereof. 
 The legs are especially distinguished by closely set rows of short, stout, spinous bristles, 
 curved towards the apex, and which are especially numerous on the exterior surface of the 
 metatarsus. This joint is particularly stubby, and all the legs are stout. The extremely 
 hirsute character of the legs appears upon the entire body, for stout, spinelike bristles are 
 spread thickly upon the surface of the corselet, and, though somewhat shorter, upon the 
 abdomen. The abdomen is broadly shield shape, high, and thick at the base, slightly 
 narrowing to the spinnerets, which are distal. The base is distinguished by two castellated 
 prominences, which are subdivided into a number of conical protuberances. 
 
 No. 58. Kaira alba (Hehiz). Plate XII, Figs. 3, 3a-c. 
 
 1850. Epeira alba, Hentz J. B. S., vi., 20; Id., Sp. U. S., p. 122, xiv., 7. 
 
 1884. Epeira alba, Keysermng .... Neu. Spinn. Amer., vi., p. 531, vi., 29. 
 1890. Kaira alba, Keyserung .... Spinn. Amerik., Epeir., iv., p. 64, iii., 50. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 203 
 
 Female: Total length, 7 mm.; ccphalothorax, 3.5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide, 1.5 mm. at 
 the face; abdomen, 6 mm. long, 5.5 mm. wide below the shoulder humps; across the 
 shoulder humps, 6.3 mm. 
 
 Ceimialotiiouax : Triangular ovate, widest near the base, where it is truncated, and 
 sharply shelving to the crest, where the corselet is highest; thence it slopes forward again 
 with considerable inclination toward the face; margins rounded; cephalic suture well 
 marked; corselet grooves not distinct; fosse a semicircular depression, overcovered by the 
 cephalothorax ; color yellowish brown, glossy, rather sparsely covered with stout, gray, 
 bristlelike hairs, whose bases are distinctly marked with slight rugosities; caput much 
 depressed, sloping to the face, which would appear contracted except for the strong tubercles 
 on which the side eyes are set. The sternum is shield shaped, and longer than wide, on 
 account of the projecting apex ; with sternal cones ; the sides deeply indented ; the centre 
 covered with bristles; color yellow, with rather lighter shade in the middle. Labium sub- 
 triangular, wider than long, and about half the height of maxillae, which are rounded at the 
 sides and tip, and but little wider than long. Both labium and maxilla: yellowish brown ; 
 slight elevations mark the sternum opposite the eoxse. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a high prominence, which is elevated above the side tubercles, 
 and is higher behind than in front. The quad front is slightly wider than rear, and about 
 equals the sides; MF separated by about or more than 1.5 diameter, and a little larger 
 than MR, which are separated by about the same space. Side eyes on prominent 
 tubercles; barely contingent; the front somewhat larger than the rear; SR well behind SF. 
 MF are separated from SF by about 1.3 their area, and from the margin of the clypeus 
 about 2 to 2.5 diameter of MF. The front row is recurved, the rear row slightly pro- 
 curved, and the longer. (Fig. 3b.) 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, heavily covered with gray pubescence and bristles, and with 
 numerous white spines with dark bases. The front and inner sides of the metatarsi, 
 particularly of the first, second, and third pairs, are marked by thickly set rows of 
 yellowish spines, with brown bases, curved toward the front and inner sides, which extend 
 also to the apical half of the tibia. This hairy and spinous armature gives the legs a par- 
 ticularly hirsute appearance. The color is a warm yellow, marked with narrow, dark 
 brown annuli at the tips of and between the joints; palps colored and armed as the legs; 
 mandibles cylindrical, not projecting beyond the clypeus. 
 
 Abdomen : Subglobose, arched in front and along the dorsum ; the base with two 
 castellated tubercles, whose summits are marked by numerous conical spurs or warts, a 
 few of which appear upon the front, just below the base of the castle. The color is cre- 
 taceous, mottled with blackish spots; and a folium of indistinct outlines, in the specimen 
 in hand, marks the dorsal field, with wavy lines of black or blackish brown. The surface 
 is covered with numerous short, gray and black bristles, which extend also to the sides of 
 the tubercles and the warts thereon. The venter is a broad, blackish band, marked with 
 median lines of yellow; spinnerets distal, dark brown in color; epigynum (Fig. 3c) is 
 without a prolonged scapus, having a short triangular flap, somewhat pointed, which does 
 not extend beyond the posterior margin of the genital cleft. The atriolum is widened and 
 arched, hairy and yellow. 
 
 Distribution: Kentucky, North Carolina, and Florida. Hentz found specimens in the 
 mud daub nests of Sphex cyane'a, and supposed the species to be rare ; but it is probably 
 well distributed throughout the Southern States. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 Genus WAGNERTA, new. 
 
 I propose this genus, in honor of Professor Waldemar Wagner, of Moscow, to receive 
 Cambridge's species, Epeiia tauricornis. It is distinguished by a corselet high at the 
 summit, descending abruptly to the truncated base; cephalic suture so plainly marked that 
 the caput is sharply differenced from the corselet, is squarely truncate at the base, and 
 rises thence arched to the vertex, whence it slopes to the face, which is broad. The 
 
204 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 labium is compressed at the base, triangular at the tip, wider than long. The maxillae 
 arc gibbous, rounded upon the outer margin, inclined toward each other, rather longer than 
 broad. The eyes, as in Epeira, have a wide space between the central and sidefront 
 groups; but the intervening spaces are relatively greater, the sidefront being separated 
 from the midfront by about four times their intervening space, the siderear from the mid- 
 rear eyes by even a greater distance. Both rows are procurved, the rear row the longer. 
 The legs, in order of length, are 1, 2, 4, 3, the difference between 1, 2, and 4 being slight; 
 the tibiic are curved, as in Gasteracantha; the patella is wide, somewhat flattened upon 
 the exterior surface; the ordinary spinous armature is wanting in the female, but the legs 
 are clothed with rows of stout spinelike bristles. The abdomen is cylindrical-ovate or 
 rectangular-ovate in form, about one-third longer than wide. The dorsal margins of the 
 abdomen are characterized by a number of conical tubercles, of which the two forward ones 
 in the typical species are thornlike, sharpened, and curved forward, resembling miniature 
 cow's horns. The dorsal apex is also tuberculated and overhangs the spinnerets, the 
 ventral part of the body having a somewhat conical form. The male resembles the 
 female in general form and pattern ; the palps are short, the palpal bulb large, and 
 the copulatory organs prominent, large, and complex. The tibiai-I and II are armed with 
 a few short spines. Leg-IV has a series of strong, long spines, arranged the entire length 
 underneath ; while the femora have a row of short, black, denticulate spines. The cephalo- 
 thorax is not as highly peaked as in the female, nor the head as high. 
 
 No. 59. "Wagneria tauricornis fCAMBRiDGE). Plate XIII, Figs. 1, 2. 
 
 1889. Epeira tauricornis, Marx in lilt. . Catalogue, p. 548. 
 
 1892. Epeira tauricornis, Cambridge . . Biol. Centr. Amer. Aran., p. 44, vi., 2, 3; viii., 1, 2. 
 
 1892. Epeira tauricornis, Keyserung . Spin. Amer., Epeir., p. 90, iv., 68. 
 
 Female: Total length, 7.8 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.7 mm. long, 1.9 mm. wide; facial 
 width, 1.3 mm.; abdomen, 4.5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothobax : Corselet rounded at the edges, high and peaked at the summit, 
 descending abruptly to the truncated base; corselet grooves distinct; cephalic suture marked 
 so that the head is distinctly differenced from the corselet. Color brown to brownish 
 black, caput dark brown, covered with hair; fosse a deep indentation; caput squarely 
 truncate at the base, rising thence and arched to the vertex, whence it slopes to the face, 
 which is broad and rather quadrate, well rounded on the forehead. Sternum cordate, 
 squarely truncate at the base, where it is tufted with yellowish bristlelike hairs that are 
 sparsely distributed along the margins; sternal cones distinct, flattened in the middle; color 
 black to blackish brown. The labium is compressed at the base, yellow ; maxillae scarcely 
 as wide as long, gibbous, yellow. (Fig. Id.) 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded and projecting eminence, more prominent before than 
 behind; front somewhat wider than rear, the sides a little longer; MF but slightly, if any, 
 larger than MR, and separated by 1.5 to 2 diameters; Mil by about 1.3. Side eyes are on 
 low tubercles; somewhat smaller than those of the middle group. SF separated from MF 
 by 1.5 the area of the latter, or about three times their intervening space; SR from MR by 
 even a greater distance. The clypeus height about 1.5 diameter MF ; both rows are pro- 
 curved, the rear the longer. 
 
 Legs: Order, 1, 2, 4, 3; color yellow to yellowish brown, with dark apical and median 
 annuli, with golden yellow bristles and hairs, with rows of stout spinous bristles on the 
 inter surface, curved toward the apex, and almost comblike, on the metatarsi especially ; 
 the ordinary spinous armature is otherwise wanting; patellae wide, somewhat flattened on 
 the exterior surface; tibiae short and curved, as in Gasteracantha (Fig. le) ; palps colored 
 and armed as the legs ; mandibles rather short, strong, conical, wide at the base, covered 
 rather evenly with short, yellow, bristlelike hairs. 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SFECIES. 205 
 
 Abdomen : About one third longer than wide, rectangular-ovate, the form difficult to 
 describe. The dorsum appears to be flattened or concave, and provided on the margins 
 with a series of conical protuberances, which terminate in points more or less blunted. 
 The shoulder humps are bifid, one of the projections terminating in a long, curved, 
 corneous point, something like the horns of a cow. The apex is about as thick as the base, 
 the spinnerets distill, but overhung by the projecting and tuberculated apex. The dorsal 
 surface is thickly covered with short golden yellow hairs; about the middle on each, side 
 rises one pair of horns, beneath which, upon the sides and a little posterior, is another 
 process projecting laterally. The apex of the dorsum is divided into at least four mammal- 
 like projections, and in the middle of the apical wall is a fifth. The sides are covered with 
 golden yellow pubescence. At the base of the cones are flecks of brownish hue. The 
 venter is golden yellow, covered with pubescence; the spinnerets blackish brown. The 
 epigynum (Figs, la, lb) has a brief columnar atriolum of dark brown, from which projects 
 a scapus very wide at the base, from the middle of which issues a short rounded point. 
 
 Mai.e^ Total length, 4.9 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long, 2 mm. wide; facial width, 
 1.1 mm. ; abdomen, 2.4 mm. long, 1.8 mm. wide. The male resembles the female in general 
 characters and colors, but is smaller. The face lacks the dark transverse band observed 
 upon the female. The abdomen differs from that of the female in having the shoulder 
 tubercles single instead of bifid. The legs are all provided with short strong spines; order 
 of length, 1, 2=4, 3, as follows: 7.9, 6.2, 6.2, 4.6. Tibia-II is thicker than tibia-I, and 
 armed with more and stronger spines. Coxa-I has an obtuse spur at its under side, and 
 the fourth coxa a smaller and sharply pointed one. 
 
 Distribution : Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, and probably throughout the entire Southern 
 States. According to Cambridge, this interesting and curious spider has been collected in 
 Guatemala and Panama, and is probably distributed throughout Central America. (Marx 
 Collection.) 
 
 Genus WIXIA, Cambridge, 1882. 
 
 The genus Wixia is especially differenced from Epeira: (1) By the shape of the caput, 
 which is not narrowed in front, but is wide, or even a little wider than the base; (2) by 
 the strong eye eminence upon which the ocular quad is placed, the tower part of which 
 towers above and overhangs the face ; (3) by the excessive size of the rear eyes of the 
 middle group ; (4) by the fact that both eye rows are procurved, and that the separating 
 distance between the side group and the middle group is greater than the proportionate 
 height of the clypeus, which is even greater than that of the length of the ocular quad, 
 which (5) also differs from that of Epeira in having the rear width greater even than the 
 length ; (6) in the fact that the abdomen, which is cylindrical-ovate, is carried by the 
 spider in a plane almost at right angles to that of the cephalothorax. 
 
 The male of the genus is also distinguished by the above characteristics, though in a 
 modified form. The legs are especially marked by blackish denticulate spines placed 
 underneath femora-II and IV, and similar spines placed upon both their trochanter and 
 coxaj, also upon coxpb-II. Corneous spurs mark the articulation of coxse-I. 
 
 No. 60. Wixia ectypa (Walckknakr). Plate XIII, Figs. 4, 5. 
 
 1842. Epeira ectypa, Wai.ckkn aer . . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 129. 
 
 1850. Epeira irrfumata, IIbntz J. B. S., p. 19; Sp. U. S., p. 122, xiv., 4. 
 
 1863. Epeira ectypa, Keyserlino . . . Beschr. n. Orbit., Isis, p. 135, vi., Figs. 13-16. 
 1884. Epeira infumata, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., 319, xxxvii., 11, 12, 13. 
 J890. Epeira infumata, Marx Catalogue, p. 544. 
 
 Female: Total length. 7 mm.; cephalothorax, 3.5 mm. long, 2.5 mm. wide, 2 mm. at 
 the face ; abdomen, 6.5 mm. long, 5 mm. wide, narrowing to 2.5 mm. at the base and 
 1.5 mm. at the apex. 
 
20G AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINQWORK 
 
 Cephalothorax: Corselet a long oval; high, truncated, and indented at the base; 
 fosse deep, circular; corselet grooves distinct; cephalic suture decidedly marked; head 
 quadrate in front, flat on top, with a slight bulge on either side at the middle part, which 
 lifts it a little above the corselet level; color yellow, lighter on the sides, and darker, 
 tending to brown, upon the caput, which deepens into blackish at the face; covered closely 
 with gray and yellow pubescence, and two blackish spots upon the knob of the caput. 
 The sternum (Fig. 4c) is shield shaped, with pointed apex and sternal cones, somewhat 
 longer than wide; flattened in the middle; yellow, covered with pubescence, which is quite 
 thick and long at the margins. Labium triangular, but narrowed into a squarish stock at 
 the base; more than half the length of the maxilhe, which are gibbous, inclined toward 
 each other, obtusely triangular at the tips, and colored as the sternum. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad (Fig. 4b) on a high prominence, which projects much at the rear, 
 where the eyes are placed on two elevated, rounded, distinct tubercles, and are located 
 well to the sides of the same, thus giving the summit a notched appearance; the quad much 
 narrower in front than rear, which is wider even than the sides ; MF are black, separated 
 about 1.5 their diameter, much smaller than MR, which are .light colored, and separated 
 by at least two diameters or more; but they are so much diverted to the side of their 
 tubercles that it is difficult to estimate the space. Side eyes on low tubercles; SF somewhat 
 larger than SR, both much smaller than MF, and greatly smaller than MR; they are 
 separated by about the radius of SF; MF are removed from SF by about 1.5 their area, 
 and as SR are placed much to the side of SF, the space between them and MR is much 
 greater. Both eye rows are procurved, the front but little, the rear row, which is longer, 
 much more so; clypeus height about the area of MF. The face is yellowish brown, with a 
 blackish area in front of the ocular quad. The forehead, by reason of the strongly pro- 
 jecting rear eyes, is hidden when the face is viewed from the front. 
 
 Legs : Stout, rather short for the length of the species, yellow, with dark bands on 
 tips of femora, and slight annuli at other joints; well clothed with hairs, and sparingly 
 with short yellowish spines ; palps thick, colored as the legs, hairy ; mandibles conical, 
 much separated at the tip, covered with hair at the arching base, yellow, with brownish 
 at the fang. 
 
 Abdomen : .Ovate (Fig. 4a), the base carried at a wide angle with the cephalothorax; 
 contracted in front into a compressed prominence, which is bifid at the top; color yellow, 
 or grayish yellow, covered thickly with pubescence; an indistinct folium upon the dorsal 
 field, which in some specimens forms an elongated W about the middle thereof. On the 
 sides beneath are bands of reticulated white and yellow, marked out by lines of brown or 
 brownish black. The surface is marked by numerous circular rows of impressed dots, 
 brown, smooth, which extend along the sides to the basal front, and to the summit of the 
 frontal tubercle. The spinnerets are prominent, distal. The venter has a dark, brownish 
 yellow band. The epigynum (4d) has a dark brown, glossy, corneous, arched atriolum, 
 which terminates in a short, wide, blackish flap, with two notches on either side; viewed 
 well from beneath it is hollow, and presents a shelllikc appearance. 
 
 Male: The mature specimen in hand (Figs. 5, 5a) is 6.5 mm. long, being equal in size 
 to, or even greater than, the female. The color is darker, the cephalothorax being brownish 
 yellow, the caput lacking the blackish coloring of the female; the legs less strongly annu- 
 lated, and darker than the female ; abdomen about the same color. The notched compres- 
 sion or tubercle on the middle base of the abdomen is even more distinct than in the 
 female, and the irregular folium upon the dorsal field somewhat better marked ; the skin 
 heavily pubescent, and muscular pits, particularly the median ones, deep. The femora-I, II 
 are wide, the latter particularly so; patella I is long, and much thinner than the femur; 
 tibia about the thickness of patella, and armed on the inside with rows of long, thick, 
 yellowish brow T n spines, with a pair on either side of the joint. Patella-II is wider and 
 shorter than I, the tibia thicker, and armed on the inside with a double row of strong, 
 thick, clasping spines, stouter but shorter than those on the tibia-I. Coxoe-I are marked 
 by strong spurs at the inside of articulation; coxse-II, IV have short blackish brown 
 spines, stronger on coxse-IV. The fourth trochanter is also provided with a short toothlike 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 207 
 
 spine. The palp is highly developed in the digital bulb. The eyes resemble substantially 
 those of the female. 
 
 Distribution: I have an immature male and female, colleeted from the neighborhood 
 of Philadelphia, The female above described is from the District of Columbia, the male 
 from Selma, Ala. (Marx Collection.) The spider as originally described was collected and 
 figured by Abbot in Georgia, and it has further been observed in North Carolina, Florida, 
 Virginia, and as far north as Connecticut. It thus appears to inhabit the entire Atlantic 
 Coast from New England to Florida, showing a large elasticity of organism. It probably 
 has a wide distribution throughout the United States. 
 
 Genus CAREPALXIS L. Koch, 1871. 
 
 This genus is distinguished by a high and rounded corselet, steeply arched at the 
 sides. The caput is a lofty conical elevation, rounded at the top, which towers above the 
 crest of the corselet, the summit occupying about the middle point of the cephalothorax, 
 whence it rolls downward to the fosse by a sharp declivity, and with a somewhat arched 
 incline forward to the eye space. .The face is distinguished by a forehead which projects 
 far above the eye space, and is itself considerably higher than in the typical species, twice 
 as high as the lower part of the face. Both eye rows are procurved, and the side eyes 
 placed low down upon the outer margins of the clypeus. The midfront eyes are separated 
 from the sidefront by a space much greater than that which divides themselves, in this 
 respect resembling Epeira. The legs are in order of length 1, 2, 4, 3, the first and second 
 pairs almost equally long, and are without spines. The length of the maxillae equals the 
 width, thus substantially resembling Epeira. The abdomen is cylindrical ; about one-third 
 longer than broad ; clothed with soft skin ; carried in a position almost perpendicular ; the 
 base has tubercles, whose summits in the typical species are divided into several peaks. 
 The spinnerets arc distal. 
 
 No. 61. Carepalxis tuberculifera Cambeidgb, Plate XIII, Fig. o. 
 
 1889. Carepalxis tuberculifera, Cambridge . . Biolog. Cent, Amor., Aran., p. 48, IV., 9. 
 
 1890. Carepalxis tuberculifera, Marx in till. . . Catalogue, p. 542. (Keyserling in litt.) 
 1892. Carepalxis tuberculifera, Keyserling . . Spinn. Amerik., Epeir., p. 50, ii., 40. 
 
 Female: Total length, 3.5 mm., but from the peculiar manner in which the animal 
 carries its abdomen, in a plane almost perpendicular to the cephalothorax, this length is 
 deceptive; cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide; abdomen, 3.3 mm. long, 2 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax: The corselet is hidden by the overhanging abdomen, somewhat 
 rounded on the sides, truncated behind, smooth and sharply sloping to the base; the caput 
 is extremely high, the forehead towering far above the eyes, having a height nearly twice 
 as great as that of the face from the midrear eyes to the margin of the clypeus (Fig. 6b, 6c), 
 giving the front thus a triangular appearance; the color is dull brown, covered with golden 
 yellow hairs; the forehead has two knobs about midway between MR and the crest. The 
 sternum is broadly shield shaped, rounded at the sides, bluntly rounded at the apex, covered 
 with grayish yellow pubescence, dark brown, with lighter shade in the centre; the labium 
 is bluntly triangular; the muxillie gibbous, curved toward each other, somewhat longer than 
 wide. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a high squarish prominence ; the rear width greater than both 
 the front and sides; eyes about equal in size; MF separated by 1.5 diameter; MR by at 
 least two diameters. The side eyes are on slight tubercles placed far down on the side 
 margin of the clypeus; they are equal in size, somewhat less than the middle eyes, 
 
 Philadelphia, A. D. 1893. 
 
208 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 scarcely contingent; SR placed well below and to the side of SF; the clypeus is high, more 
 than the area of MF. Both rows are greatly procurved, the rear row the longer. 
 
 Legs: Order, 1, 2, 4, 3; short, stout, yellow to orange yellow in color, covered with 
 grayish yellow bristles abundantly, but apparently without spines; the palps are colored 
 and armed as the legs ; the mandibles conical, well compressed at the tips, yellowish brown, 
 covered with hairs at the base and inside. 
 
 Abdomen: Carried in a plane almost at right angles to that of the corselet, is cylin- 
 drical-ovate, broadened at the base, where there are two thick cones, whose summits are 
 bifid ; at the anterior bases of these cones and from the middle point of the abdominal front 
 projects forward a smaller similar cone; the whole base of the abdomen is thus much 
 roughened; the color is dull yellow, with a blackish band between the shoulder humps 
 and an irregular semicircular patch of yellow upon the dorsal field ; the whole surface is 
 thickly covered with gray hairs ; the spinnerets are distal ; the venter a brownish band ; 
 the epigynum (Fig. Ga) has a short bowllike scapus extending from the atriolum between 
 the portute. 
 
 Distribution : Florida. (Marx Collection.) Cambridge describes the species from Panama, 
 and it will probably be found along the entire Gulf Coast of the United States. 
 
 Genus GEA, 0. Koch, 1843. 
 
 In Gea the base of the head is flattened and marked by slight tubercles on either side 
 of the median line. The caput is depressed at the base, elevated at the face. The 
 sternum is cordate, about as wide at the base as long, with sternal cones. The labium 
 is subtriangular ; the maxillse are gibbous, somewhat longer than wide. The space between 
 the midfront and sidefront eyes is but little, if any, greater than that between the mid- 
 front; the space between the midrear and the siderear eyes, on the contrary, is much 
 greater than between the midrear eyes. The front row is slightly procurved, almost 
 aligned ; the rear row, which is considerably longer, is very much procurved. The clypeus 
 is moderately high. The legs are, in order of length, 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, and well provided 
 with bristles and spines; the mandibles are rather long, somewhat conical, slightly retreat- 
 ing backwards. The abdomen is a long oval, truncate at the base, but little arched upon 
 the dorsum, which is marked by prominent shoulder humps and smaller tubercles. The 
 spinnerets are distal; the skin soft and with metallic white or silvery lustre. 
 
 No. 62. Gea heptagon (I-Ientz). Plate XII, Figs. 8, 8a-d. 
 
 1850. Epeira heptagon, Hentz J. B. S., vi., p. 20; Sp. U. S., p. 122, xi v., 4,5,6; 
 
 xviii., 52, 72. 
 
 1890. Gea heptagon, Marx Catalogue, p. 541. 
 
 1892. Gea heptagon, Keyserling .... Spinn. Amerik., Epeir., p. 76, iii., 58. 
 
 Female : Total length, 5 mm. ; cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1.75 mm. wide ; abdomen, 
 3.5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. General colors for the fore part of the body- are dark brown, 
 with yellowish and blackish, the abdomen being dark, with silvery marks. I have no 
 mature male, but an immature one from Georgia, nearly full grown, closely resembles the 
 female in size and markings. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Oval, well rounded at the margin; fosse a longitudinal depression; 
 corselet grooves and cephalic suture distinct; color brown, with a light margin of yellow, 
 and yellow flecks along the corselet grooves; base of the head flattened and marked by 
 very slight tubercles on either side of the median line, the color yellow, with brown 
 patches on the sides and towards the vertex; the caput is depressed at the base, and 
 elevated at the face. Sternum (Fig. 8c) cordate, nearly as wide at the base as long, with 
 sternal cones ; color brown on the edges, with a broad median band of yellow, with lateral 
 branches to the sternal cones; slightly pubescent; lip subtriangular, yellowish; maxillae 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 209 
 
 gibbous, somewhat longer than wide, obtusely triangular at the tips, which are yellow; the 
 bases a yellowish brown. 
 
 Eyes: Fig. 8b. Ocular quad narrower in front than behind, sides decidedly longer 
 than rear; MF on tubercles, which project over the face; separated by about 1.5 diameter; 
 less in size than MR, which arc separated by at least 1.5 diameter. Side eyes on tubercles ; 
 SF, which are smaller, are at the base thereof, and well in front. The space between MF 
 and SF is but little, if any, greater than that between MF; the space between MR and 
 SR, on the contrary, is much greater than between MR; the front row is slightly procurved, 
 almost aligned ; the hind row, which is considerably longer, is much procurved ; clypeus 
 height at least 1.5 diameter MF. The eyes are on black bases; the color of the face and 
 maxillrc is yellow. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout for such a small species, well provided with bristles and spines; 
 color yellow, with dark annuli at tips and middle of joints; palps lighter yellow, with less 
 decided annuli ; mandibles yellow, mottled with brown, rather long, somewhat conical, 
 slightly retreating backward. 
 
 Abdomen : A long oval, truncate at the base, but little arched upon the dorsum, except 
 with gravid females; dorsum marked by prominent shoulder humps, and two smaller 
 tubercles on each side. The dorsal field is brown, relieved with metallic white, and has a 
 black shield shaped folium, scalloped upon the edges, and tipped with white marks in the 
 middle of the apical half; this part of the abdomen is arched to the spinnerets, which arc 
 distal and blackish brown; the venter is blackish, mottled with silvery white or yellow; 
 the epigynum has a wide, shortened scapus (Fig. 8d), hollowed beneath like the half of a 
 bowd. 
 
 Distribution: The Southern United States; collected in the District of Columbia, 
 Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, southward to Florida, and so along the Gulf Coast through 
 Georgia, Alabama, and New Orleans. 
 
 Genus GASTERACANTHA, Latreille, 1831. 
 
 This strongly marked genus is at once distinguished by the peculiar character of the 
 abdomen, which is broader than long, with a hard, glossy skin, punctuated with many 
 dimplelike depressions. The venter is subcorneal, and the spinnerets placed at the apex 
 thereof. In the female many of the species have a dorsal field prolonged into various 
 corneous, more or less pointed, tubercles. The head is wide, almost as wide as the ceph- 
 alothorax, steeply elevated above the flattened corselet, and with hard, glossy skin. The 
 eyes are divided into three groups, as in Epeira, but the intervening spaces are relatively 
 much greater. The fourth leg is relatively longer than the others; the tibia; slightly 
 curved; ordinary spines are lacking, but the legs are armored with long, aculeate, spinelike 
 bristles. The males are very small, but roughly resemble the female, the abdomen com- 
 monly lacking the pointed dorsal cones. 
 
 No. 63. G-asteracantha pallida C. Koch. Plate XIV, Fig. 8. 
 
 1850. Gasteracaiitlia pallida, Koch C. . Die Arachn., xi., p. 60, pi. 374, Fig. 881. 
 1889. Gasleracanlha pallida, Mahx . . Catalogue, p. 539. 
 
 Female: Total length, 6 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.75 mm. long, 2.5 wide across the face; 
 abdomen, 5.5 mm. long, 8.5 mm. wide across the middle, 4 mm. across the front, 3.5 min. 
 across the dorsal apex. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet quite concealed by the overhanging base of the abdomen, is 
 rounded at the sides, flat and smooth on the dorsum, which slopes downward from the 
 caput to the base. The head rises so prominently as to hide the corselet when viewed in 
 front; the head is almost as wide in front as the cephalothorax; the forehead is high, the 
 distance from the sides to the vertex being considerably greater than from the margins of 
 
210 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 the clypeus to MR; the forehead is divided at the median into two rounded humps; color 
 glossy brown, with short grayish yellow pubescence. Sternum an elongated shield shape, 
 decidedly longer than wide; surface somewhat rugose, blackish to blackish brown, with 
 lighter touches of yellow in the middle; slight pubescence, glossy. Labium subtriangular, 
 about half the height of maxilla? ; maxillre as wide as or wider than long, obtusely trian- 
 gular at the tips, which are inclined toward one another. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded eminence; blackish brown in color, much wider 
 behind than in front, the length not greater than the rear width ; MF slightly larger than 
 MR, separated by about one diameter, MR by about 1 .5. Side eyes on blackish tubercles ; 
 about equal in size, scarcely contingent; distance between SF and MF very great, about 
 three times the area of the latter, or four to five times the intervening space ; clypeus low, 
 the ocular quad touching its margin ; MF removed by scarcely a diameter therefrom ; front 
 row slightly recurved, rear row is almost aligned, scarcely procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 4, 2, 3; short, stout, bright glossy brown in color, with dark apical annuli 
 which almost cover some of the joints ; patella; wide ; tibise short ; pubescence yellowish and 
 blackish bristles and hair, but no spines ; palps armored as legs, almost black ; mandibles 
 conical, wide at the base, where they are much arched, relatively much attenuated at the 
 apex ; color glossy bright brown. 
 
 Abdomen : An elongated oval, wider than long, the dorsum and dorsal field uniform 
 yellow, the four ordinary muscular pits forming a prominent quadrilateral in the centre; 
 around the margin are rows of dimples resembling the central ones, being nine in number, 
 on either side of a strong spine which extends laterally and upward from the middle of 
 the margin; this spine is covered with short blackish hairs, whose strong bases give it a 
 rugose appearance ; it is tipped with bright yellowish brown ; sides and apex brown, 
 strongly contrasting with the pale yellow of the dorsal field, mottled here and there with 
 round yellow spots and with dimples scattered over the rugose surface. From the apex and 
 below the dorsum project two spinous cones like those upon the sides, and rather flatter; 
 the spinnerets are near the middle of the venter, are black, as is the surrounding space, 
 but the base encompassed with circular yellow spots. In front of the epigynum and mid- 
 way between it and the spinnerets is a strong black cone, projecting downward. The 
 epigynum (Fig. 8a) shows a subtriangular atriolum, with a short flaplike projection serving 
 as a scapus, which droops down towards the genital cleft. 
 
 Distribution : The habitat of Koch's type was unknown. Dr. Marx locates the species 
 in California. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 No. 64. Gasteracantha maura, new species. Plate XIII, Fig. J2. 
 
 Female: Total length, 8 mm.; cephalothorax, 4.5 mm. long, 3.5 mm, wide, 3 mm. wide 
 at the face; abdomen, 7.5 mm. long, 11.5 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Rounded at the sides; corselet wider than long, truncate and indented 
 at the base, concave on the summit; fosse a semicircular pit, with concavity directed forward ; 
 the surface roughened, scantily pubescent on the margin ; color dark glossy brown ; cephalic 
 suture marked, the head rising in a steep slope from the corselet, smooth, glossy black on 
 the posterior, slightly notched in the middle, where it is highest; the forehead as wide as 
 the eye space, leaving a triangular depression in the middle ; color glossy blackish to brown, 
 almost black. Sternum shield shape, compressed and pointed at the apex, longer than 
 wide ; sternal cones distinct ; indented at the margin and flattened in the middle ; glossy 
 black at the margins, with a median band of brownish yellow covered with bristlelike 
 hairs with strong bases ; the labium long and obtusely triangular, well rounded at the sides ; 
 the maxilla! as wide as long, rounded at the tips and sides, color, as the labium, glossy 
 blackish brown. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a prominence, rounded and more projecting in front, where it is 
 narrower than behind ; sides somewhat longer than rear. The eyes are small, of about 
 equal size; MF separated by 1.5 diameters, MR by at least two. Side eyes on tubercles 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 211 
 
 strongly projecting sidewise, of about equal size, separated by about the diameter of SR ; 
 they are distant from MF by three times or more the area of the latter; of clypeus about 
 two diameters MF high, the margin touching the quad eminence. The front row is very 
 slightly recurved, almost aligned ; the rear row is slightly procurved, almost aligned. 
 
 Legs: 1, 4, 3, 2; in all specimens a uniform blackish brown; freely provided with strong 
 spinelike bristles, but with no ordinary spines; palps colored and armed as legs; mandibles 
 arched at the base, conical, glossy, blackish brown. 
 
 Abdomen : Considerably wider than long ; semicircular in front and behind ; the sides 
 somewhat square and truncate, caused by the presence on each of two blunted cones, of 
 which the posterior is somewhat larger ; the dorsal field is yellow, but deeply marked with 
 black patches, which environ the dimples, and in front are merged into two bands. There 
 are twelve dimples in the front row and nine in the posterior. From the apex of the 
 dorsum project two short, black, conical spines; the sides and apical wall are mottled 
 yellow and black, covered profusely with short hairs set in a circular cavity; a row of 
 dimples encompasses the spinnerets, which are jet black and set at the apex of the conical 
 venter. The epigynum (Fig. 12a) is an obtusely triangular or semicircular flap, slightly pro- 
 longed at the apex into a short rounded scapus ; the atriolum is wide, and, looked at from 
 beneath, shows deep hollows on cither side of the base of the scapus; color black, glossy, 
 except at the extreme tip, which is yellowish brown. 
 
 Distribution : Numerous specimens, young and old, of this species have been obtained 
 from California, particularly the southern part (Dr. Blaisdell, Mr. Orcutt), and from islands 
 off the coast (Mr. C. H. Townsend). 
 
 No. 65. Gasteracantha preciosa, new species. Plate XIV, Fig. 7. 
 
 1889. Gasteracantha preciosa, Marx in Hit. . . Catalogue, p. 539. 
 Female: Total length, 6 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long, width at the face 2.3 mm.; 
 the abdomen 6 mm. long, 8 mm. across the middle. The description of Gasteracantha pal- 
 lida will apply to this spider in almost every detail except the general color. The ceph- 
 alothorax, mouth parts, and legs are extremely glossy, and blackish to blackish brown, 
 except upon the terminal joints of the legs. The dorsal field of the abdomen, instead of 
 being a pale yellow, as with G. pallida, is jet glossy black, mottled with large irregular 
 patches of bright yellow placed in front and along the margins, and near the middle part 
 of the margins present a striking appearance. The number of circular pits or dimples 
 around the margins is also greater than in G. pallida, numbering ehrven on the base and 
 ten on the apical half of the dorsal circle. The spines projecting from the middle part are 
 yellow at the base, succeeded by a bright rosy red, the point being jet black, all covered 
 with circular rows of spines with roughened bases. There is a decided conical process on 
 coxa-II which is wanting in the example of G. pallida before me. The epigynum shows 
 simply a low atriolum, with a hard, glossy black, semicircular edge without a scapus. 
 Distribution: Mohave Desert, California. 
 
 No. 66. Gasteracantha cancriformis (Linn^us). Plate XIV, Fig. 9. 
 
 1767. Aranea cancriformis, Linn.eus . . Syst. Nat. Ed., xi., p. 1037. 
 
 1837. Plcctana cancriformis, Wai.ck. . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 151. 
 
 1837. Plcctana clipsoides, Walckenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 155 ; Abbot, Ga. Spid. 
 
 1850. Kpeira cancer, Hentz J. B. S., vi., p. 23. Sp. U. S., p. 126, xiv., 13. 
 
 1889. Gasteracantha canav/onm's, McCook. Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vols. I, II. 
 
 1889. Gasteracantha cancriformis, Marx. Catalogue, p. 539. 
 
 Female : Total length, 7 mm. ; width at the face, 3 mm. ; abdomen, 5 mm. long, 8 mm. 
 wide. 
 
 The cephalothorax and caput are of the typical form, the color glossy black, with a 
 tint of brown. The sternum and mouth parts are typical, as are also the eyes. The legs 
 
212 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 are glossy brownish black, the pubescence gray bristles, without spines. The abdomen 
 differs from that of G. maura in that the six thornlike spines are much more pointed, and 
 are a bright rosy, reddish brown color, though the tips are blackish, and entirely covered 
 with bristles, rising out of strong black bases. The anterior thorns are directed somewhat 
 forward ; the posterior are larger, and decidedly directed backward ; two similar cones project 
 from the apical part. The abdomen is yellow, reticulated, and covered sparsely with soft, 
 short, grayish bristles, the dimpled pits surrounded by black patches, in some cases blended 
 together. There are ten of these dimples upon the basal row and nine upon the posterior 
 row. The latter are arranged in three groups, the two larger at the base of the posterior 
 side thorn, the posterior one of these two forming, with the posterior two of the central 
 quadrilateral, a row whose curvature is backward. The marginal row has five smaller 
 dimples between the bases of the posterior thorns, and slightly curving backward. In the 
 basal row the two dimples near the bases of the anterior spines are larger than the others. 
 The sides and venter are black, mottled with yellow spots, covered with soft yellowish 
 gray bristles. The spinnerets are black, and the epigynum is a strong projecting cone, 
 Which is tipped with reddish brown. The epigynum (Fig. 9a) has a long subtriangular 
 atriolum, whose edge is deeply indented on either side of the base of a short scapus, 
 which is little more than a rounded and roughened hump. 
 
 Distribution: I have collected this species in Texas, have specimens from North 
 Carolina, and a number from the islands of the Caribbean Sea, collected by Mr. C. H. 
 Townsend. Dr. Marx locates the species in Florida, Alabama, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, 
 and California. It is therefore distributed along the entire Gulf Coast of the United States, 
 and thence across the continent to the Pacific Coast, where it abounds, at least in the 
 southern portion thereof. 
 
 Genus ACROSOMA, Perty, 1834. 
 
 In Acrosoma the cephalothorax is a rather lengthened oval, truncated behind, but 
 low in front. The fosse is not deep, the cephalic suture distinct, the head arched and 
 somewhat erect, quadrate and wide in front; the Skin hard, glossy, and comparatively 
 smooth. The sternum is longer than wide, marked by decided sternal cones. The 
 labium and maxillae are as in Epeira. The fourth pair of legs the longest, the order 
 being 4, 1, 2, 3 ; well clothed with pubescence, bristles, and short, stubby, bristlelike spines, 
 but lacking the ordinary spinous armature: The eyes are substantially as in Epeira. The 
 abdomen is an elongated rectangular ovate, upon a dorsum the skin of which is hard, 
 glossy, covered with dimples, and marked along the margin by conical tubercles, more or 
 less pointed. The venter is conical, the spinnerets placed at the apex, nearly underneath 
 the middle of the abdomen. The characteristics of this genus are so distinct that it is 
 difficult to mistake the identity, at least of the known American species. 
 
 No. 67. Acrosoma gracile (Wau-kexaer). Plate XXI, Figs, l, 4. 
 
 x 1837. Plectana gracilis, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 193; Abbot, G. S., No. — . V 
 
 1845. Acrosoma malronalc, Koch, C. . . Die Arach., xi., p. 08, Fig. 887. 
 
 1850. Epeira rugosa, Hentz J. B., vi., p. 21; Sp. U. S., p. 124, xiv., 10. 
 
 3884. Acrosoma rugosa, Emehton . •. . N. E. Ep., p. 326, xxxviii., 10. 
 
 1888. Acrosoma gracilis, McCook . . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 5. 
 
 1889. Acrosoma gracile, Marx Catalogue, p, 539. 
 
 Female: Total length, 10 mm.; abdomen, 7 mm. long (not including the' posterior 
 spines), 4.5 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 3.5 mm. long, 2.5 mm. wide. The colors vary in 
 different species, but the fore part of the body is generally a dark orange or reddish 
 brown, while the abdomen is yellow, with brown or red thornlike spines. 
 
 (ki'iiai.otiiorax: Corselet irregular oval, truncated behind; rather flat on the edges, 
 elevated in the centre ; fosse a low circular depression ; skin glossy, hard, slightly covered 
 
DESCRIPTION OF OKNEKA AND SFEC1ES. 213 
 
 with short pubescence; face wide, head raised above the corselet, from which it is sepa- 
 rated by a deep suture, which strongly delineates caput from corselet. A bright yellow ' 
 ribbon girdles the edge of the corselet, which for the rest is a reddish brown, more or less 
 decided in various specimens. The cordiform sternum is longer than wide, has decided 
 sternal cones; is rather heavily pubescent; color dark brown, with median band of yellow, 
 which is broadened into a rbomboid figure at the middle, and in front is yellow ; labium 
 large, subtriangular, and has a yellow tip like the maxilhe, which are rounded, and as wide 
 as long, or even wider. 
 
 Eyes: Fig. la. The quad on an elevated prominence; narrower in front than behind, 
 longest at the sides; MF separated by about 1.5 diameter; MR longer, and separated by 
 about one diameter; side eyes on decided tubercles, almost contingent, almost equal in 
 size*MF separated from SF by more than twice their alignment, and about once their 
 alignment from margin of clypeus; front row shorter than rear and recurved, rear row 
 procurved. 
 
 Leqs: 1, 4, 3 2; color from dark brown to yellow, the final joints being brighter. 
 The femur has a wide median annulus, and the joints are tipped with darker color; well 
 armed with short hairs and stout bristles, arranged in longitudinal rows. Underneath, on 
 the femora particularly, the skin is extremely rugose, an effect produced by the elevated 
 bases of the stumpy spinelike hairs. Palps colored as the legs ; mandibles strong and well 
 rounded at the base, but not projecting beyond the face. 
 
 Abdomen: Rectangular ovate, flattened or even hollowed on the dorsum, except in 
 gravid females; a series of thornlike conical spines set around the edges, of which the 
 basal are shorter than the middle, and those on the apical corners are double; immediately 
 beneath each of the latter is a shorter spine ; color usually bright yellow, with a row of 
 four circular black pits on the base, two large ones at the middle, and others, again, on 
 the posterior ; the bases of spines dark brown or red, deepening into black at the sharp 
 points ; skin glossy, hard, sparsely pubescent. The sides are rugose, streaked with about 
 four longitudinal rows of yellow, alternating with brown bands, and thickly covered with 
 short hairs, with brown circular pits. The spinnerets are so far underneath the abdomen 
 as to give it a conical or pyramidal shape ; are dark brown or blackish ; venter pattern 
 yellow, mottled with brown ; the epigynum (Fig. 2a) is dark brown in color, tipped with 
 yellow, with a prominent scapus, wide at the base and narrowing to a rounded spooned 
 tip. The specimens of this spider vary much in color, apparently according to age. In 
 some the head and dorsum of the corselet ai;e orange yellow, with a median band of 
 brown, and a broad circular belt of brown next below and adjoining the marginal band of 
 yellow ; the legs, in such specimens, become yellow, with brown annuli, not only at the 
 ends of the joints but in the middle thereof. The dorsal spines also differ in length, and 
 the abdomen varies slightly in color. Where specimens have been long in alcohol the 
 circular pits or spots above alluded to appear in marked prominence, and are arranged 
 laterally across the dorsum and between the apical spines, and again in rows' passing from 
 the dorsum to the spinnerets, underneath the venter. 
 
 Distribution : I have collected along the entire Atlantic Coast of the United States, 
 and in the Middle States. It inhabits the Gulf States, and probably the entire region east 
 of the Rocky Mountains. 
 
 No. 68. Acrosoma reduvianum (Walckenaer). Plate XXIII, Figs. 6, 7. 
 
 4 1837. Pleclana rcduviana, Walckenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., 201 ; Abbot, G. S., No. i 
 
 1850. Epeira mitrata, Hentz J. B. S., vi., 22; Id., Sp. U. S., p. 125, xiv., 11. 
 
 1884. Acrosoma mitrala, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 37, xxxviii., 9. 
 
 1888. Acrosoma reduviana, McCook . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 5. 
 
 1889. Acrosoma reduvianum, Mahx . . Catalogue, p. 540. 
 
 Female: Body length, 5 mm.; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 3 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 1.5 mm. to 2 mm. long, and 1 to 1.3 mm, wide. Specimens differ in size. The above measure- 
 ments are taken from one of the largest females. 
 
214 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet irregular oval, truncated behind; the median fosse deep, 
 'cephalic suture well marked; corselet grooves distinct; color yellowish brown, with a yellow 
 marginal band ; in some specimens lighter streaks of yellow mark corselet grooves and 
 caput; skin glossy and slightly pubescent; head on a level with or slightly above the 
 corselet; color yallowish brown, uniform with corselet and mandibles. The sternum is 
 shield shaped, about as wide as long; blackish or dark brown, slightly pubescent; skin 
 hard and glossy ; labium subtriangular, colored like the sternum ; the maxilla? wide as long, 
 and rounded at the tip. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a black prominence; narrower in front than behind, sides 
 slightly longer than rear; the eyes are set on black rings; MR slightly larger than MF; 
 MF separated by about 1.5, MR by one diameter; side eyes on tubercles, not very pro- 
 nounced; propinquate; SF somewhat larger than SR. The clypeus height about* two 
 diameters MF; front eye row well recurved, the longer rear row slightly procurved or 
 aligned. 
 
 Legs: 4, 1, 2, 3; yellow, with slight brown apical annuli; armed with bristles and 
 short bristlelike spines, and are rugose, particularly upon the femora; palps colored and 
 armed as the legs. 
 
 Abdomen : Somewhat an irregular oval, wider behind than in front, widest in the middle ; 
 the posterior is armed at the dorsal edges with strong but not long spinal processes, and 
 immediately beneath these are similar but smaller processes. The color is yellow, with a 
 folium of blackish color, interrupted in the middle. Several curved rows of circular brown 
 spots cross the dorsum, modifying the color, some bowed to the front and some to the 
 rear; similar spots are on the sides and underneath. The dorsum is reticulated, and is 
 glossy and hard; the spinnerets are placed well underneath, the venter is yellow, the spin- 
 nerets brown, as well as the space surrounding the gills and epigynum. The epigynum 
 (Fig. 6 front view, 6b side view) shows anteriorly a brown chitinous atriolum and a scapus 
 bent and blunt at the tip. Underneath the scapus and dividing the postulse is what may 
 be called a secondary scapus, wide at the base and somewhat rounded at the tip. 
 
 Male: Figs. 7, 7a, 7b. The male does not differ widely from the female in coloring and 
 markings. The apex of the abdomen is rounded, and is destitute of spinal processes. Its 
 size is a little more than half that of the female, being 3 mm. long. 
 
 Distribution: The geographical distribution appears to correspond closely with that of 
 its congeners, A. gracile and A. sagittatum. It has been collected throughout the New 
 England States, in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, 
 North Carolina, Georgia. I have specimens from Ohio, and as far to the north and west 
 as Wisconsin. Its distribution west of the Mississippi has not been determined, and it is 
 probably limited by the Rocky Mountains. 
 
 No. 69. Acrosoma sagittatum (Walckenaer). Plate XXIII, Figs. 8, 9. 
 
 A 1837. Pleclana sagittata, Walckenaer . Ins. Apt, ii., p. 174; Abbot, G. S., No. 
 
 1850. Epeira spinea, Hentz J. B. S., vi., p. 21 ; Sp. U. S., p. 123, xiv., 9. 
 
 1884. Acrosoma spinea, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 326, xxxviii., 5-8. 
 
 1888. Acrosoma sagittata, McCook . . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 5. 
 
 1889. Acrosoma sagittatum, Makx . . . Catalogue, p. 540. 
 
 Female: Total length, 9 mm.; abdomen, 4.5 mm. long from base to apex at the 
 median line, 7 mm. long from base to tips of posterior spines; width, 4 mm.; cephalo- 
 thorax, 3 mm. long and 2 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A long oval, rounded, slightly indented at the base, the posterior 
 half raised instead of depressed ; the fosse distinct, as are also the corselet grooves ; the 
 margin somewhat rimmed or turned up ; caput elevated ; cephalic sutures distinct ; the 
 head rather stumpy and wide at the face. Color yellow or orange brown, with darker 
 streakings on the sides; a marginal rim of yellow surrounds the corselet, with a wider dark 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 215 
 
 brown band above it ; the head light yellow or bright brown ; skin smooth and hard. 
 Sternum is a long shield, engrailed at the edges, the apex pointed and somewhat length- 
 ened ; the anterior or chief extending at both dexter and sinister points into rectangular 
 arms; the centre is raised; slight sternal cones opposite the coxse and on the apex; skin 
 is hard and smooth like the corselet, with which it corresponds in color, though of a 
 rather lighter shade ; labium large, subtriangular, colored like the sternum with a yellow- 
 ish tip, as also are the maxilla?, which are ovate, somewhat longer than wide, the tips sub- 
 triangular. . 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a slightly raised prominence, the rear considerably wider than 
 the front, and equal to sides or even a little longer ; MF somewhat smaller than MR, and 
 separated by about one diameter; MR by about 1.5 diameter; eyes on a black ring. Side 
 eyes on decided tubercles, and each upon a slight secondary tubercle; SF larger than SR, 
 from which they are separated by about or more than the diameter of SR; MF are removed 
 from SF by about twice their alignment, and from clypeus margin by about 1.5 diameter; 
 front row recurved, the longer rear row slightly procurvcd. 
 
 Legs: 4, 1, 2, 3; the fourth leg being 9 mm. long, the first leg 8 mm.; clothed with 
 hairs and bristles, with decided spines, and the skin roughened partly by the lumpy bases 
 of bristles; color uniform yellow, or yellowish brown, or orange brown, varying with indi- 
 viduals. They are tolerably stout, the two first pair more so than the others ; the third 
 leg, instead of extending backward like the fourth leg, extends forward like the two first 
 pair; palps colored like legs; mandibles yellowish brown, rather short, rounded at the base, 
 where they project a little beyond the face, tapering at the tip. 
 
 Abdomen : An irregular oval, truncated at the base, widened at the apex, where on 
 either side it is elongated into two long thornlike spines; the dorsal front has two decided 
 spines, but shorter than the posterior, and midway between these a much abbreviated pair ; 
 the skin is hard and smooth, slightly pubescent, and covered with rows of brown circular 
 pits, which encompass the abdomen. The color varies somewhat, in some specimens being 
 more brilliant than in others, but typical specimens have the dorsum bright yellow, the 
 bases of the spines crimson or orange, toward the point deepening into brown or blackish 
 brown or black. The sides are ridged with alternate rows of yellow or brown. The spin- 
 nerets are on a conical projection well underneath the abdomen ; venter colored like the 
 sides, the posterior parts around the gills and epigynum being orange brown. The epigy- 
 num (Figs. 8b, 8c) has a well elevated and rounded atriolum of the same chitinous texture 
 as the abdomen, slightly pubescent, and at the middle elongated into a scapus which is 
 wide and triangular at the base, with an attenuated shank, enlarged at the tip into a rounded 
 spoon; the terminal parts are light yellow, the base brown. The portute are prominent, 
 and on either side and in front the wall is elevated into a subtriangular partition, lying 
 just beneath the scapus. 
 
 Male: Figs. 9, 9a, 9b. In form and general characteristics the male differs widely from 
 the female. Its length is about 4.5 mm.; the color is black or deep blackish brown; the 
 cephalothorax dark brown, or sometimes dark yellow. The fore legs are black or blackish 
 brown, except the two terminal joints; the third and fourth legs are usually lighter in 
 color. The cephalothorax is a long oval. The eyes are arranged substantially as in the 
 female; the palp distinguished as at 9a, 9b. The abdomen widens toward the apex, where 
 it is nearly twice as wide as at the base, and is rounded at the corners. It is destitute of 
 the spinous processes which characterize the female, but in some species there are slightly 
 developed humps on either side, though the posterior spines are wanting; the spinnerets 
 are placed underneath the abdomen as in the female ; the skin is tough, smooth, and 
 shining. 
 
 Distribution : This species reminds one of tropical fauna in its general appearance, but 
 is widely distributed throughout the Northern and Middle as well as the Southern United 
 States. It has been traced from New England through New York, Pennsylvania, New 
 Jersey, along the Atlantic Coast, to Florida, along the Gulf Coast; it has been found in 
 Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. I have received no specimens from the Pacific Slope; 
 the distribution is probably limited by the Rocky Mountains. 
 
216 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Genus CERCIDIA, Thorell, 1869. 
 
 In Ccrcidia the cephalothorax is oval, the head elevated and somewhat quadrate. 
 The Sternum is somewhat longer than wide, and marked with distinct sternal cones. 
 The labium and maxillae are as in Epeira. The eyes are substantially as in Epeira, 
 except that the siderear eye is larger. The fourth leg is longest of all. The abdomen 
 is a regular oval, but is distinguished from Epeira, Zilla, and Singa by the glossy hard 
 skin. The individuals of Cercidian species are small. The typical American species is C. 
 funebris. The cocoon is a small egg shaped sac. 1 
 
 No. 70. Cercidia funebris Keyserling. Plate XIX, Fig. 0, 9a-c. 
 
 1889. Cercidia funebris, Marx in lilt. . . Catalogue, p. 540 (Keyserling in litt.). 
 1892. Cercidia funebris, Keyserling . . Spinnen Amerikas, Epeir., p. 37, ii., 32, 32a. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4 mm.; abdomen, 3 mm. long by 2.5 mm. wide across the 
 shoulders; cephalothorax, 1.75 mm. long by 1.3 mm. wide. The general colors in front, dark 
 brown to blackish ; the abdomen glossy black, with longitudinal stripes of cretaceous or yellow. 
 
 Cephalothorax: A rounded oval; head prominent; cephalic suture strongly marked; 
 fosse entirely overhung by the abdomen ; caput high ; color blackish brown. Sternum shield 
 shape, somewhat longer than wide, but rather rounded at the apex; sternal cones distinct; 
 flat in the middle; slightly pubescent; color jet black. Labium triangular, half the height 
 of the maxillae, which are as broad as long; cut square at the tips, and, like the labium, 
 glossy black, in contrast with the yellow coxae. 
 
 Eyes : Eye space black or blackish brown ; ocular quad on a rounded eminence ; man- 
 ifestly wider in front than behind, and the sides longest; MF decidedly smaller than MR, 
 separated by about one and a half to two diameters, while MR are separated by about or a 
 little more than one; side eyes on tubercles, subequal, contingent, removed from MF by 
 a space equal to the area of the latter, and at least half greater than the intervening space 
 of MF ; front eye row recurved, the longer rear row procurved ; clypeus two and a half to 
 three diameters MF in height. 
 
 Legs: 4, 1, 2, 3, as follows: 4.4, 4.2, 3.9, 2.6 mm.; color dark brown, lighter at the 
 bases of the femora, the coxa: underneath yellow; stout rows of strong, short, yellow 
 bristles both above and beneath along the joints, and apparently without spines; palps 
 colored and armed as legs; mandibles strong, conical, parallel. 
 
 Abdomen: An oval longer than broad; narrower at the apex than at the base; the 
 dorsum arched; the skin hard and bright, glossy; the folium a black to blackish brown 
 figure, undulating at the margin, and a broad interrupted ribbon of cretaceous or yellow 
 along the median band, which is divided in the middle by an irregular thread of blackish 
 brown color, except upon the base. A broad waving band of yellow passes longitudinally 
 along each side beyond the folium; and below that again on the sides are broad bands of 
 glossy brown, which terminate in a narrow longitudinal strip of cretaceous that borders the 
 blackish quadrilateral venter. This black ventral band quite encompasses the spinnerets, 
 which are of a light color, and also the cpigynum. The latter organ (Fig. 9b) appears to 
 be a crescent shaped cup, with the opening toward the front, and without a distinct scapus. 
 In the figure, however, upon the plate the artist has represented a short scapus, widening 
 into a spoon shaped atriolum. 
 
 Distribution: Crescent City, Florida. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 Genus ARGIOPE, Savigny and Audouin, 1825. 
 
 Argiope is distinguished by a Cephalothorax which is flattened upon the summit of 
 the corselet, giving this organ a comparatively low and weak appearance. The caput also 
 is flattened along the entire length, and placed upon, or very nearly upon, a level with the 
 1 Thorell, " On European Spiders," page 59. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 217 
 
 corselet. The corselet is oval, somewhat longer than wide. It is ordinarily closely furred 
 with metallic white hairs, that give it a silvery appearance. The Sternum is somewhat 
 longer than wide, and is often marked with prominent sternal cones. The labium and 
 maxilla? are substantially as in Epeira, though the latter are rather longer than wide. The 
 eyes are divided into three groups, usually placed upon decided eminences. The eye rows 
 are both procurved, the anterior row slightly, the posterior row decidedly. The legs are 
 in order of length 1, 2, 4, 3 ; sufficiently stout, armored with hair, bristles, and spines, the 
 two terminating joints being usually attenuated in size, and the metatarsal joint of greater 
 relative length. The abdomen is commonly longer than wide, cylindrical or subcylindri- 
 cal, or a lengthened oval ; in some species the dorsal base is marked by shoulder humps, 
 in others the posterior margin and sides by tubercles. The colore are brilliant, sometimes 
 metallic. The skin is soft and thickly covered with hairs. Some of the largest species of 
 both American and exotic spider fauna are found within this genus. The males usually 
 differ much from the females, and are relatively small. The orbicular snare is frequently 
 decorated with ribbons of white silk, symmetrically arranged. 
 
 No. 7 1 . Argiope cophinaria (Walckenaer). Plate XV, Figs. 1-6 ; PI. XVI, Figs. 5, 6 ; 
 | PI. XVI, Figs. 1, 2. 
 
 vj 1837. Epeira cophinaria, Wai.okenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., 109; Abbot's Ga. S., No. 151. 
 
 1837. Epeira ambitoria, Walckenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 112. 
 
 1839. Nephila vestita, Koch Die Arachniden, v., p. 35, pi. 153, Fig. 358. 
 
 1847. Epeira riparia, Hentz J. B. S., v., 468 ; Sp. U. S., p. 106, xii., 5. 
 
 1882. Argiope riparia, McCook .... Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 256. 
 
 1884. Argiope riparia, Emerton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 329. 
 
 1888. Argiope cophinaria, McCook . . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 1 ; and Amer. 
 
 Spiders and their Spinningwork throughout. 
 
 1889. Argiope cophinaria, Marx .... Catalogue Described Aranese, p. 541. 
 
 Female: Total length, 20 to 28 mm.; cephalothorax, 11 mm. long, 8 mm. wide; 
 abdomen, 18 mm. long, 11 mm. wide. The size of the adult female varies greatly, but the 
 above measurement gives one of the largest, although at times a gravid female is found 
 with even a much larger abdomen. • 
 
 Cei-iiai.othorax : A long oval, thin, flat on top; fosse a deep rounded pit in the centre 
 thereof; corselet covered uniformly with grayish or silvery white hairs. A lighter band of 
 yellowish hue girdles the margin ; the caput is low at the base, flat on top, the skin 
 beneath, like that of the corselet, yellowish brown, mottled with yellow, but so thickly 
 covered with silvery white hair as to disguise the color thereof. These hairs extend to the 
 eyes, and entirely encompass the forehead surrounding the upper part of the eyes. Sternum 
 shield shape, much wider at the base, and pointed at the apex ; strong sternal cones, a 
 particularly large one at the apex ; flattened in the middle ; color dark brown to blackish, 
 with a broad bright ■ yellow median band the entire length ; covered, particularly at the 
 margins, with white pubescence, intermingled with long, dark, spinous bristles. Labium 
 subtriangular, less than half the height of the maxilla?, which are gibbous, somewhat 
 longer than wide, brown, with yellowish tips, and provided with strong, black, curved 
 bristles. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a squarish elevation, which much projects in front, the rear eyes 
 at the base thereof; length much greater than width, the front narrower than rear; eyes 
 not greatly different in size, but MF are somewhat larger, situated on triangular projections 
 from the corner of the quad; separated by about 2.5 diameter; MR separated by 1.5 to 2. 
 Side eyes on strong black tubercles, separated by about one diameter of SR, which is 
 slightly larger than SF ; the space between SF and MF is about 1.3 the area of the latter, 
 or not more than 1.5 the separating space; the distance between SR and MR is 1.3 to 1.5 
 times greater than that which separates SF and MF; the clypeus is rather high, the margin 
 
218 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWOKK. 
 
 A 
 
 separated from MF by 2.5 to 3 times the diameter of the latter, which, however, are much 
 elevated above it; the eye space is yellowish brown, the tubercles and ocular quad glossy, 
 black, corneous, with a few curved bristles placed along the margin of the clypeus, strongest 
 at the base of the quad; front row slightly procurvcd, rear row greatly procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 52, 49, 42, 31.5 mm.; stout at the thighs, but gradually 
 tapering to the tarsus, which is thin, as is also the metatarsus ; in many adult females the 
 last two joints, and frequently the last three joints, also including the patella, are glossy 
 black, the thighs alone showing at the bases a bright yellow hue ; in the younger specimens 
 the leg is striped with brown and yellow (see Fig. 4) ; the whole surface is covered with 
 short hairs, yellow on the femora and dark on the other joints; femora-I are usually 
 darker, and specimens will be found in which they are almost black, a peculiarity which 
 extends to the third leg; surface thickly covered with bristles, and less abundantly with 
 short dark spines; the palps are colored and armed like the legs, but in some specimens 
 are entirely yellow; mandibles conical, dark brown, and glossy with yellowish tips. 
 
 Abdomen : An elongated oval, narrowed or broadened according to the maturity or age 
 of the individual; its width is usually about two-fifths its length, broadest about the 
 middle, slightly tapering towards the apex, which overhangs the spinnerets; it also narrows 
 somewhat towards the base, which is marked by two well developed conical processes, 
 which project rather forwards than sideways, as in the case of Epeira. They show 
 decidedly in half grown specimens, and more or less in adults not gravid, when the 
 abdomen is distended with eggs; the dorsal field is marked by a broad irregular median 
 band of blackish brown, flanked on either side by an irregular broken band of yellow 
 spots; the median blackish brown band is marked by four to six, usually the latter, patches 
 or spots of yellow, arranged symmetrically along the median line ; four longitudinal brown- 
 ish stripes, which are often indistinct, pass from the middle of the dorsal field along the 
 folium to the apex ; the surface is somewhat freely covered w ith short, silvery white hairs, 
 and the skin is reticulated ; the venter has a broad brown band, compressed towards the 
 spinnerets, with eight circular yellow spots arranged symmetrically on the median line, 
 and a broad ribbon of bright yellow along either margin, which passes to the base of the 
 brown' spinnerets, encircles the same in a broken band. The epigynum (Plate XVI., Figs. 
 5, 5b, 5c) has a low, wide, yellow atriolum, subtriangular in form, but little separated from 
 the venter ; the scapus is brown, glossy, corneous, widest at the base, and curved along the 
 lower side, short, terminating in a wide, notched tip, which is hollowed on either side; 
 when removed from the venter, and the under part is viewed, this organ is seen to be 
 quite hollow ; it is covered with short, curved, black bristles. 
 
 Male : Plate X, Figs. 5 and 6. The male of this species is about one-fourth the size 
 of the female, being 6 to 8 mm. in body length. The cephalothorax is yellowish brown, 
 covered, but less densely than the female, with white and yellowish white hairs, which 
 also sparsely clothe the caput, and are found within the eye space. The eyes are arranged 
 nearly as in the female. The MF are about 1 to 1.5 diameter removed from the margin of 
 the clypeus, and are separated from SF by a space a little greater than that which divides 
 themselves. The rear eyes are on tubercles, propinquate, SF slightly the smaller. The front 
 row is arranged in a nearly straight line, the rear row much procurved. The legs are 
 brownish yellow, with faintly marked annuli, and well provided with spines, bristles, and 
 hairs. The abdomen is a long oval, widest at the top, where at each corner the base 
 presents a slight conical process, and is marked by a cluster of long bristles. Along the 
 middle of the dorsum extends a wide dentated band of brown color, interspersed with 
 yellow, on either margin of which along the sides is a zigzag band of white, sprinkled 
 with silver hairs, corresponding with the interrupted zigzag bands on the sides of tne 
 female. The mandibles do not extend beyond the border of the eye space, and the head 
 on either side projects beyond them. The humeral, cubital, and radial joints of the palp 
 are yellowish white, the two last named being short and irregularly rounded, the last one 
 particularly having a number of radiating bristles. The digital joint is bright brown, inter- 
 mingled with yellow color, and may most readily be distinguished by three projections 
 extending from the outer side, of which two are relatively long, and the third, or shorter 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 219 
 
 one, is palm shaped, and strongly toothed upon the edge. (See Plate II., Fig. 6.) The 
 males are found hanging upon the outer borders of the female's snare during August and 
 September, sometimes several individuals being in attendance upon one female. 
 
 Distribution : This fine spider, whose habits are so fully given in Volumes I. and II. 
 of this work, is well known to all frequenters of our fields, and is familiar to even the 
 most careless observer. It inhabits grasses, bushes, and generally low positions, on which it 
 spins a strong web, the central portion of which is covered thickly with a white shield- 
 like patch, from either extremity of which proceeds a broad zigzag ribbon. It is able to 
 capture the strongest insects in its mature stages; and feeds largely upon grasshoppers and 
 locusts. Its geographical distribution is almost coterminous with the United States. I have 
 collected specimens in New England, as far north as Massachusetts, Connecticut, and 
 Northern Illinois (Chicago), and southward along the Atlantic Coast as far as Florida. To 
 the southwest I have taken specimens in Texas, and have them from the Pacific Coast as 
 far south as San Diego, California. I also have specimens from the Rocky Mountains, and 
 from various points along the great plains and prairies, both east and west of the Mississippi 
 River. Northward specimens have been obtained from Minnesota and Wisconsin. It may 
 therefore be considered as distributed throughout the entire United States. In all locations 
 it appears to preserve the same habits, spins the same sort of web and cocoon, and, 
 whether in Southern California or Northern New England, remains in shape, color, and size 
 substantially the same. 
 
 No. 72. Argiope argyraspis (AValckenaer). Plate XV, Fig. 8; PI. XVI, Figs. 3, 4. 
 
 ^ 1837. Epeira argyraspldcs^VAhCKEt; aek. 1 Ins. Apt., ii., p. 110; Abbot, G. S., No. 
 
 1847. Epeira fasciata, Hentz J. B. S., v., p. 468; Sp. U. S., p. 107, xii., 8. 
 
 1873. Argiope fasciata, L. Koch .... Arachniden Australiens, p. 133; pi. 10, Fig. 5. 
 
 1882. Argiope fasciata, McCook .... Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 256. 
 
 1884. Argiope transvera, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 330, pi. 24, Fig. 20. 
 
 1888. Argiope argyraspides, McCook . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 1. 
 
 1889. Argiope argyrosis, 1 McCook . . Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork, Vol. I. 
 
 1890. Argiope argyraspides, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 541. 
 
 Female: Total length, 19 mm.; abdomen, 12 mm. long, 9 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 6.5 mm. long, 6 mm. wide, 3 mm. at the face. This spider is distinguished at once from 
 its congener, A. cophinaria, by the color and shape of its abdomen, which is truncated at 
 the base and pointed at the apex, in the younger specimens quite decidedly so, though the 
 young of cophinaria have the same form. The spinnerets are located rather further under- 
 neath, the abdomen being placed at least one-third of the distance from apex to base. 
 (Plate XV., Fig. 8.) Adult specimens differ much in size, from 16 mm. or less in length to 
 25 or 30 mm., as with some specimens from Southern California. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A long oval ; the corselet rounded at the margin, broadly truncated, 
 and indented at the base, low and flat; the fosse a conical pit; skin yellow, with wide 
 brownish patches on either side of the broad yellow median line; the margin yellow, with 
 strong grayish yellow bristles; the whole surface so covered with silvery white hairs that it 
 has a silvery gray lustre; caput narrow at the base, compressed at the middle, colored and 
 armored as the corselet, somewhat contracted towards the face. Sternum shield shape, wide 
 at base, rather rounded at margins, obtusely triangular at the apex, the centre a broad 
 yellow band ; strong yellow sternal cones ; color of margins brown ; the surface covered 
 thickly with strong hairs and stiff brownish bristles. Labium subtriangular, yellow, with 
 but a fleck of brown at the base, as are also the maxillse, which are somewhat longer than 
 wide, and sparsely covered with brown, curved, strong, spinous bristles. 
 
 ■The proper term is undoubtedly "argyraspis," and I use it in accordance with the author's 
 liberty to correct obvious errors in spelling. 
 
220 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded eminence, projecting in front; longer than wide, front 
 narrower than rear ; eyes on black bases ; MF somewhat larger than MR, separated by 
 about 1.3 diameter; MR separated about 1.5 diameter. Side eyes on high tubercles; SR 
 larger than SF, propinquate, but not contingent; the space between SF and MF is equal to 
 about 1.3 the area of the latter; space between SR and MR is at least one-third greater 
 than that between SF and MF; clypeus height about three diameters MF; front row 
 slightly procurved, rear row much procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; not so stout at the thighs as A. cophinaria, and not tapering quite so 
 sharply to the feet; color 3'ellow, strongly annulated at the tips and between the joints 
 with brown ; covered with yellowish white hair and bristles, and with rather short brown 
 spines; palps yellow, with little brown at the tips, strongly armed with brown spines and 
 spinous bristles; mandibles yellow, with flecks of brown; conical, but not greatly tapering. 
 
 Abdomen: A long oval, rather truncated at the base (in young specimens subtri- 
 angular) and narrow at the apex, which much overhangs the brown spinnerets; color 
 silvery white, broken by lateral bands of black and yellow, alternating from base to apex ; 
 dorsum not much arched, except in the female when gravid. A dark branching median 
 line, which divides into four longitudinal lines, passes along the centre of the dorsal field; 
 the muscular pits are strongly marked, and the surface is punctuated irregularly with dots; 
 the sides are marked by longitudinal stripes of brown and silver, the colors produced chiefly 
 by the hues of the pubescence; the brown stripes contain many dark brown curved 
 bristles; the ventral pattern is a broad brown patch, with eight circular silvery spots sym- 
 metrically arranged on either side of the median ; on the margins a ribbon of yellow or 
 whitish yellow, which encompasses the base of the brown spinnerets in an interrupted 
 band. The epigynum has a bowl shaped atriolum, brown, corneous, which is spanned in 
 the middle by the scapus, that arches over the bowl from side to side, like the clasp of a 
 padlock ; the apex is not free, but attached to the posterior margin of the atriolum. (Plate 
 XVI., Figs. 3a, 3b.) It is hollow, and has an opening at the point where the curve touches 
 the venter. 
 
 Male: Plate I., 10, 11. About the same size as that of A. cophinaria, which it 
 resembles in many respects. The cephalothorax and legs are uniform yellow or yellowish 
 brown, the legs well provided with numerous spines, bristles, and hairs. The front eye of 
 the lateral pair, as in the female, is decidedly smaller than the rear eye. Tufts of silvery 
 white hail's are found along the margins of the cephalothorax, extending to the eye space. 
 The abdomen has a brownish, scalloped band along the median line, with longitudinal rows 
 of silver white hairs on either side. It is a long oval in shape, and, unlike the male of 
 Cophinaria, is not bifid at the base. The venter is silvery white, with a long rectangle of 
 blackish color draw r n between the spinnerets and the epigynum. Instead of the three 
 flattened processes projecting from the external margins of the palps, as in the case of the 
 male of A. cophinaria, there is a curled or crescent shaped process, strongly marked with 
 black chitine along the edge. (Plate II., 4.) The habits of the male, as far as known, are- 
 precisely those of the male of A. cophinaria. 
 
 Distribution : The distribution of this species is coterminous with that of A. cophin- 
 aria, at least I have rarely failed to get the two in the same general bound. I have taken it 
 all along the Atlantic Coast, in the Middle States, and have specimens from the Pacific Coast. 
 L. Koch reports it in New Grenada, Madeira, and Australia. 
 
 No. 73. Argiope argentata (Fabricius). Plate XVI, Figs. 1, 2. 
 
 i 1775. Aranea argentata, Fabricius . . Entom. System, ii., p. 414. 
 
 "^ 1837. Epeira argentata, Walckenaek . Ins. Apt, ii., p. 110 ; Abbot, G. S., 551; 117, vol. 15. V 
 
 1839. Argiopes argentalns, Koch, C. . . Die Arachn., v., p. 38, Fig. 300. 
 
 1839. Argiope fenestrinus, Koch, C. . . Ibid., p. 155, Fig. 361. 
 
 1889. Argiope argenteola, McCook . . . Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 1889. Argiope argentata, McCook . . . Ibid., Vol. I., p. 108. 
 
 1889. Argiope argentata, Marx .... Catalogue, p. 541. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 221 
 
 Female: Total length, 16 mm.; cephalothorax, 6 mm. long, 4.5 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 11 mm. long, 8 mm. wide at the middle, 4 mm. at the base, narrowing to 2 mm. and less 
 at the apex. The spider is easily distinguished from its two largest indigenous congeners 
 by the peculiar serrated form of the abdomen, and by the brilliant silvery and beautiful 
 yellow markings on the basal half of the dorsum. The metallic lustre is caused by masses 
 of silvery hairs which closely thatch the cephalothorax and abdomen. This sheen does 
 not show in alcohol, and the specimen requires to be dried in order to bring it out in any 
 degree. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A long oval ; corselet rounded at margins, indented at base, flat, with 
 a deep circular fosse ; corselet grooves distinct ; cephalic suture well marked ; ground color 
 blackish brown, with a yellow band along the margin of the corselet and a yellowish 
 median strip both on corselet and caput; the whole is covered thickly with silvery hairs, 
 which give a shining metallic appearance; the caput is quite pointed at the base, flattened 
 in front, and much widened at the face, covered also with silvery hairs; sternum shield 
 shaped, wide across the front, obtusely triangular at the point ; the field dark brown, glossy, 
 but covered thickly along the margins with yellowish or silvery white hair; on the anterior 
 portion strong black bristles ; raised in the middle and in front ; with decided sternal cones. 
 Labium high, subtriangular ; maxillae longer than wide, gibbous. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on an elevation distinctly depressed in the middle, thus separating 
 the front and rear parts into two eminences on which the eyes are seated ; the quad much 
 longer than wide, decidedly wider behind than in front; eyes not greatly different in size, 
 but MF slightly larger, separated by about 1.75 to 2 diameters; MR by 2.5; side eyes on 
 high tubercles; MR much larger than MF, the two barely contingent; MF separated from 
 SF by a little more than their area, or 1.5 the interval of MF; MR from SR by a space 
 much greater than divides MF and SF. Clypeus height 3.5 to 4 diameters MF; front row 
 slightly, rear row much procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; yellow, with broad apical and median dark brown annuli ; legs-I, III 
 in many specimens darker than II, giving indeed the impression of dark brown legs with 
 yellow annuli; freely provided with bristles and long, thin, yellowish spines, and thickly 
 covered with silvery white pubescence ; palps yellow, with a touch of brown on the ter- 
 minal joints, which are tolerably well provided with dark spines and* gray bristles ; man- 
 dibles conical, dark brown, flecked with yellow, glossy and slightly pubescent. 
 
 Abdomen: Rectangular ovate widest about the middle, narrowing towards the base, 
 which is cut squarely across, and narrowing also towards the apex, which terminates in a 
 pointed tubercle like a caudal part that extends quite beyond the spinnerets. The dorsum 
 rather flat, but the surface much broken ; divided into two well marked parts about the 
 middle by a thick armor of silvery hairs, with which the base is clothed ; at the narrowed 
 anterior of the base are two short, distinct, rounded tubercles; the line of separation above 
 noted is marked on either side by a similar but smaller tubercle, and there is another in 
 the middle of the dividing line; the apical part is divided along its edge on each side into 
 two rounded projections or lobes, leaving the apex extended posteriorly from the middle as 
 a fifth lobe. The silver armor extends downward along the median line by a narrowing 
 band somewhat rounded before it terminates; on either side of this the space is a yellow 
 and blackish brown folium, through which branching lines extend towards the apex. The 
 venter is beautifully marked by a truncated pyramid of brownish yellow, thickly studded 
 with short blackish bristles, and bordered on both sides and behind by a silvery band, the 
 posterior part being the widest; between this and the spinnerets is a patch of brown 
 flanked on either side by a blackish brown belt, which entirely encompasses the spinnerets, 
 at whose base there is a somewhat broken band of yellow ; the sides along either flank of 
 tin; ventral folium are black, flecked with brown, in the midst of which are many bristles, 
 whose bases are glossy, chitinous, well raised above the surface, and when the shafts are 
 broken off add to the glistening appearance of the surface. The epigynum (Figs, lc-d) has 
 a marked resemblance to that of A. argyraspis ; the atriolum is rather narrow, the seapus 
 rising from its base in a wide yellowish belt, which is indented at the base, and projects at 
 the middle into a seapus, which is depressed in the middle but highly arched, and widened 
 
222 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORIC. 
 
 towards the end, which bends under, leaving the base within the atriohim and the portuhe 
 exposed on either side ; it thus presents the appearance of the clasp of a padlock when shut 
 down ; the color of this scapus is amber. 
 
 Mai,e: I have but one specimen which I regard with little doubt as the male of this 
 species, and which is perfect with the exception of the two hind legs. (Fig. 2b.) The 
 specimen is relatively even smaller than the males of Argiope cophinaria and argyraspis, 
 being 3.7 mm. in body length. The cephalothorax and legs are a uniform yellowish 
 brown ; the abdomen has the same silvery white appearance as that of the female, but to a 
 less degree. Longitudinal stripes of yellow pass on either side of the median line or the 
 dorsum. The basal processes are distinctly marked, and along the sides of the abdomen 
 appear what I take to be indications of the lateral projections or lobes. In a specimen in 
 the Marx Collection the lobes show plainly. (Fig. 2.) The face, mandibles, and eyes, in 
 general construction and arrangement, resemble males of A. argyraspis. The eyes have the 
 front row slightly procurved, the rear row decidedly so; SF decidedly smaller than SR 
 and contingent. (Fig. 2c, Plate II., 2b.) The palp has a single strong spinal bristle projecting 
 from the tip of the cubital joint, and the radial joint is well provided with long bristles. 
 The boatlike cymbium is of yellowish color, and strongly covered with bristles. The inly- 
 ing convolutions (Figs. 2d, 2c) present characteristics something like a combination of the 
 palpal digits of both A. cophinaria and A. argyraspis. A strong black spiral process, bluntly 
 terminated, is a marked characteristic by which it may be easily determined. 
 
 Distribution: This beautiful species inhabits Southern California, from which I have 
 received numerous specimens (Mr. Orcutt, Mrs. Eigemann) ; from Magdalena Bay, off the 
 coast of Lower California (Mr. C. II. Townsend). I have also specimens from Florida, and 
 Dr. Marx reports it in his Catalogue from Texas and Arizona. Abbot collected it in 
 Georgia and the Southern States, and has two fine figures in his manuscript drawings. 
 The species is well distributed throughout South America, and inhabits also the West Indies 
 (Costa Rica, Santo Domingo), whence I have several specimens (Mr. William Gabb). It may 
 be regarded as tropical and subtropical in its habitat. 
 
 No. 74. Argiope avara Thorell. Plate XIV, Figs. 1, la. 
 
 1868. Argiope avara, Thohell Fregatten Eugenies Resa., Aranere, Vetensk. Akad. 
 
 Handling, p. 27. 
 
 Female: Total length, 18 mm.; abdomen, 14 mm. long, 13 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 6.5 mm. long, 5.5 mm. wide; face, 2.5 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet rounded at the margin, very flat and thin, though somewhat 
 elevated in the centre; fosse deep, head depressed, and flattish on top; color brown, with 
 yellowish white on the margin, covered with silvery white hairs; sternum dark brown, 
 with a broad median band of bright yellow, narrowing towards the apex, and with radiate 
 points at the corners, presenting the appearance of a pelt of a vertebrate animal ; somewhat 
 longer than wide, pointed at the apex, with well developed sternal cones; clothed with 
 strong bristles and hairs. Labium is subtriangular; maxilla; as wide as long, and both 
 brown, with yellowish margins. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated; widest behind, somewhat longer than wide; MF separated 
 by about 1.5 diameter ; MR about equal MF in size, and separated at least or more than 
 two diameters; side eyes on strong tubercles; SR much larger than SF, separated by about 
 or less than radius SF; MF are removed from SF by about their alignment; height of 
 clypeus about two diameters MF; front row somewhat the longer, rear row decidedly pro- 
 curved. The side tubercles have a band of yellow at the base, which passes across the 
 middle of the ocular quad. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 35, 33, 28, 16 mm. Although probably darkened much by 
 the alcohol, appear to be a rich dark brown, with dark annul] at the tips of the joints, 
 which on the metatarsi and tarsi are black; they are not stout, rather thin, indeed, for such 
 
\ 
 
 DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 223 
 
 a large species; are well clothed with spines, bristles, and hairs, the spines, particularly, 
 grouped underneath the femora and tibia in longitudinal rows, and are long, strong, brown- 
 ish yellow. Mandibles brown ; slightly tapering at the fangs, projecting at the base ; palps 
 light yellow, the digital joint well armed with spines and bristles. 
 
 Abdomen : Almost as wide as long in the specimen in hand, which appears to be a 
 gravid female. In shape a rounded oval, narrowing but little at the base, where it over- 
 hangs the cephalothorax, and somewhat more at the apex, which well overhangs the spin- 
 nerets. The dorsum beautifully reticulated, the base and front a bright yellow, which 
 extends along the sides, deepening into yellowish brown towards the apex ; dorsal field 
 silvery white, with flecks of yellow. The apical half is traversed by lateral bands of dark 
 or blackish brown, extending in semicircles around the sides to the venter; also by longitu- 
 dinal lines of the same color, one median, with side branches, more or less curved, which 
 cross the lateral bands above described, passing to the apex. The venter has a blackish 
 brown, wide band, girdled on either side by an interrupted ribbon of yellowish white, 
 which encompasses the brown spinnerets at the base, at which point it is broken into spots. 
 Within this ribbon, and symmetrically arranged upon the central band, are four yellowish 
 spots, the anterior ones closer together than the posterior. In the epigynum (Plate XIV., 
 Fig. la) the scapus is without a free end, which, like the curved clasp in a padlock, bends 
 over from the posterior to the anterior side of the atriolum, thus dividing the portula: or 
 seminal chambers. In this respect it resembles the epigynum of A. argyraspis and A. 
 argentata. 
 
 Distribution : In the United States, Fort Yuma, Arizona. (Marx Collection.) Orig- 
 inally described by Dr. Thorell from a specimen collected on the voyage of the frigate 
 "Eugenies." 
 
 No. 75. Argiope Marxii, new species. Plate I, Fig. 5. 
 
 1890. Epeira americana Makx, in lift. 
 
 Female: Total length, 17 mm.; cephalothorax, 6 mm. long by 4.5 mm. wide; abdo- 
 men, 12 mm. long by 7 mm. wide. This fine large spider has a strong resemblance to A. 
 argyraspis, from which, however, it may be at once distinguished by the oval contour of 
 the abdomen and the absence of the strong annular markings on the legs. 
 
 CEPHALOTnoRAX : A rounded oval, widest towards the base, which is truncated and 
 shelving, thin, flat upon the summit, the fosse a deep rounded pit; cephalic suture deep; 
 corselet grooves sufficiently distinct; color brownish yellow, with darker bands along the 
 grooves and on the median of the caput, covered scantily with silvery gray .hairs. The 
 sternum is shield shaped, somewhat longer than wide, indented at the edges; with sternal 
 cones; rounded in the centre, the color blackish brown and yellow. Labium wide at the 
 base, subtriangular at the tip; maxilhe rounded, nearly as wide as long, and, like the 
 labium, brown, with yellowish tips, and covered, like the sternum, with numerous black 
 bristles. 
 
 Fyes: Ocular quad on a prominence, most decided in front; rear slightly wider than 
 front, sides decidedly longer; MF separated by about one diameter, MR by 1.5 to 2 
 diameters, smaller than MF; side eyes on tubercles, slightly separated, about equal in size; 
 MF removed from SF by about 1.3 their area, and from the margin of the clypeus by 
 about 1.5 to 2 diameters; front row recurved, rear row slightly procurved. 
 
 Legs: Long, stout, freely armored with hair and black bristles, the latter arranged in 
 thick rows along the upper surface; spines numerous, long, blackish, arranged in rows 
 underneath the joints ; beneath the femora especially are three rows of long spines, with 
 elevated bases, of which the largest is directly in the middle of the joint. The other 
 femora are similarly, but less abundantly, provided, and there are spines also beneath the 
 tibia. The color is yellow (in the alcoholic specimen), with no indication of annuli, but 
 darker bands upon the femora beneath ; the palps are of like color and armature ; the 
 

 224 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 mandibles are cylindrical, arched at the base, glossy, and slightly pubescent; yellow, with 
 darker shades at the base. 
 
 Abdomen : Well arched, rounded to the spinnerets, which are situated well under the 
 apex. The dorsum is marked by a broad black median band, varying but little in width 
 from base to apex, but with contractions at two points near the middle; whitish yellow 
 marginal bands mark the outlines, and double rows of whitish spots symmetrically arranged 
 are grouped along the median band on each side the median line. The sides are marked 
 by whitish yellow irregular patches, running longitudinally along the base, but on the sides 
 and towards the apex sloping to the spinnerets. Beneath the abdomen is dark brown, the 
 venter marked by two whitish yellow broken lines, well separated, running from the 
 epigynum to the spinnerets; within these, symmetrically arranged on either side of the 
 median line, are buttonlike rows of whitish yellow spots, unequal in size, and somewhat 
 narrowing toward the spinnerets. The epigynum is without a prolonged scapus, and shows 
 simply a cuplike atriolum, separated into two chambers, within which the opening of the 
 oviducts appear. (Plate I., Fig. 5.) 
 
 This beautiful specimen, by the flat form of its cephalothorax and the location of the 
 spinnerets beneath the abdomen, approaches Argiope more closely than the typical Epeira. 
 The eyes, however, more closely resemble those of Epeira, the front row being recurved, as 
 in Epeira, instead of procurved, as usual in Argiope. The rear row also is but slightly 
 procurved, as in Epeira, instead of greatly procurved, as in the typical Argiope. For this 
 reason I place it here rather than create for it a new genus, which might perhaps properly 
 be done, as a connecting link between Argiope and Epeira. 
 
 Distribution: Fort Yuma, Arizona. (Marx Collection.) Only a single specimen col- 
 lected. 
 
 Genus CYCLOSA, Menge, 1876. 
 
 In Cyclosa the cephalothorax is cordate or oval, the head arched and elevated 
 above the corselet. The sternum is wide at the base, somewhat longer than broad. The 
 maxilla; are as in Epeira. The labium is relatively smaller. The eyes are divided into 
 three groups ; the front eyes of the central group upon a projecting eminence ; the quad 
 longer than wide; the clypeus is moderately high; the sidefront eyes are divided from the 
 midfront by a space greater than that which separates themselves; the front row is decidedly 
 recurved, the rear row aligned, or nearly so. The legs are, in order of length, 1, 2, 4, 3; 
 stout, rather scantily pubescent, the spines being long, thin, and aculeate. The abdomen 
 is an irregular oval, thickest at the apex, marked in some species by shoulder humps, and 
 in others by a conical projection from the dorsal median that has the appearance of a tail. 
 The apical ^vall is high, the venter conical, and the spinnerets situated well beneath the 
 middle part thereof. 
 
 No. 76. Cyclosa turbinata (Walckenaer). Plate XVII, Figs. 5, C. 
 
 1842. Epeira turbinata, Walckenaer . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 140. 
 
 1850. Epeira caudata, Hentz J. B. S., vi., p. 23 ; Sp. U. S., p. 126. 
 
 1888. Cyclosa turbinata, McCook . . . Revised Nomenclature, Proceed. Acad. N. S., Phila. 
 
 1889. Cyclosa caudata, McCook .... Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork, I., II. 
 
 1890. Cyclosa turbinata, Marx .... Catalogue, p. 549. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; cephalothorax, 1.7 mm. long, middle width 1.2 mm., 
 front width 0.7 mm. ; abdomen, 3.4 mm. long, 2 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet a rounded oval ; caput and the somewhat higher anterior 
 part of the corselet are roundly arched; cephalic suture deep; the fosse small; sternum flat, 
 longer than broad ; maxilla; and labium broader than long ; color, as also sternum and 
 mouth parts, dark brown or black. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad somewhat longer than broad, wider in front than behind; MF 
 separated by about 1.3 diameter ; MR smaller than MF, and separated by less than their 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 225 
 
 diameter; the distanco between MF and SF is a little greater than the area of MF; lateral 
 eyes contingent, on a small tubercle, and are about as large as MR. Front eye row 
 decidedly recurved, rear row slightly recurved or aligned, and longer; the clypeus projects 
 over the mandibles, and is scarcely the width of the diameter of MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2=4, 3, as follows: 4.6, 4.1, 4.1, 2.8 mm.; color light yellow, with narrow, dark, 
 apical annul!, somewhat wider on femora ; palps colored and marked as legs, and mandibles 
 retreating; somewhat shorter than the patella, and not quite as thick as femur-I. 
 
 Abdomen : A long ovate, narrowed at the apex into a taillike termination, directed 
 more or less upward, and extending beyond the spinnerets; it is longer than broad, highly 
 arched on the dorsum, which has two shoulder humps. (Fig. 5d.) The field is brown or 
 yellow; the sides are marked with a few blackish stripes; the dorsal* pattern somewhat 
 resembles that of C. conica, being an irregular blackish arrow shnped patch, connected by a 
 narrow band to an irregular rectangular apical patch of like color; the caudal part is yel- 
 lowish, with blackish borders. The venter has a broad black band which surrounds the spin- 
 nerets, bearing white spots at the base ; the epigynum (Fig. 5e) has a well marked scapus 
 of nearly equal width throughout, but obtusely triangular at the tip ; the portulse are open 
 and rounded, the atriolum arched, and has several small white spots of color on each side. 
 
 Male: Fig. 6, 6a, 6b. Total length, 3 mm.; cephalothorax,-1.5 mm. long, middle width 
 1.1 mm., front width 0.5 mm.; abdomen, 1.5 mm. long, 1.2 mm. broad; cephalothorax a 
 little longer than femur-I, not quite one-third longer than broad, in front not quite half as 
 broad as in the middle ; dorsally highly arched. The face at the eye space projects con- 
 siderably over the clypeus, which is rather high ; eyes grouped as in the female ; mouth 
 parts and sternum dark brown, the latter sometimes with traces of yellow spots. The legs 
 have distinct spines on all joints; tibia-II has no special thickening or clasping spines; the 
 coxoe are without tubercles; the distal joints are of darker color; the order of length is 
 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 3.9, 3.3, 3.2, 2.1 mm. The abdomen is but little longer than broad, is 
 dorsally highly arched, rounded at both ends, and apparently destitute of the caudal pro- 
 jection which marks the female ; spinnerets distal ; color brownish yellow or gray, with a 
 broad scalloped longitudinal band, and two white spots on the basal half; the venter black, 
 with two round white spots on each side close to the spinnerets. The palpal digit is 
 marked as at Fig. 6b. 
 
 Distribution : I have collected this interesting spider from, Canada and the Northern 
 New England States, southward along the Atlantic Coast as far as Florida, as well as in 
 Ohio and some of the Western States. Professor Peckhatn sends it from Wisconsin. Dr. 
 Marx reports it in Louisiana and Alabama; Dr. Blaisdell sends it from California. It is 
 probably distributed throughout the greater portion of the United States. Its habits are 
 fully given in Vols. I., II. 
 
 No. 77. Cyclosa conica (Pallas). Plate XVII, Figs. 3, 4. 
 
 1772. Aranea conica, Pallas Spicil. Zool., 1, 9, p. 48, pi. i., 16. 
 
 1776. Aranea Iriquelra, Sulzer .... Abgeck. Gesch., etc., p. 254, xxx., 3. 
 
 1778. Aranea conica, De Geer .... Mem., vii., p. 231, xiii., 16-20. 
 
 1805. Epeira conica, Walckenaer . . . Tab. d. Aran., p. 04. 
 
 1837. Epeira conica, AValckenaer . . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 138. 
 
 1837. Singa conica, Koch, C Ubers. der Arachn. Syst., i., p. 6. 
 
 1842. Singa conica, Kocn, C Archn., xi., p. 145, pi. 392, Figs. 943-945. 
 
 1864. Epeira conica, Blackwall . . . Spid. G. B. & I., ii., p. 363, xxvii., 261. 
 
 1866. Cyclosa conica, Menqe Preuss. Spinn., i., p. 74, xii., tab. 18. 
 
 1869. Cyrlophora conica, Tiiorell . . . European Spiders, p. 57. 
 
 1870. Cyrlophora conica, Tiiorell . . . Synonyms, p. 18. 
 
 1874. Cyclosa conica, Simon Arachn. d. France, i., p. 38. 
 
 1884. Cyclosa conica, Emerton 1 . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 321, xxxiv., 3. 
 
 ' Emerton probably refers in bis description' to this species, at least his drawing shows no shoulder 
 humps; but he erroneously confounds it with O. turbinata. 
 
226 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Femal*: Total length, 7 mm. ; cephalothorax, 2.2 mm. long; width in middle, 1.8 
 mm. ; width in front, 0.9 mm. ; abdomen, 5.1 mm. long, 3.6 mm. wide. The species differs 
 from' C. turbinata in its genital organ, but may be at once easily distinguished by the 
 absence of the two shoulder humps. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Corselet, mouth parts, and sternum uniformly brown, or blackish 
 
 brown; caput sometimes a little lighter color; the latter is covered freely, the former 
 
 "sparsely, with gray hairs; dorsally flat; caput not higher than corselet; median fosse small; 
 
 corselet grooves not deep ; cephalic suture distinct. Labium obtusely pointed, and maxilla; 
 
 broader than long. 
 
 Eves: Ocular quad elevated; wider in front than behind, and decidedly longer than 
 wide ; MF separated by about 1.5 diameter, larger than MR, which are separated by about 
 or less than one diameter. SF removed from MF by about the area of MF ; side eyes not 
 contingent ; SF larger than SB, and not much less than MF. Clypeus margin separated 
 from MF by 1.5 to 2 diameters; front row recurved, rear row longer, nearly aligned, or 
 even a little recurved. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows : 7.6, 6.7, 6.3, 4.5 mm. ; color yellow, with decided brown 
 apical and median annuli; armed with hairs, bristles, and long, thin, acute spines. The 
 mandibles retreat backward!? 
 
 Abdomen : A rounded oval ; at the apex a more or less conical protuberance, which is 
 directed upwards; color yellowish white, or whitish, with brownish side, and a dark longi- 
 tudinal folium, which is sometimes indistinct, compressed about the centre, and irregularly 
 indented on the edges. The venter black, with a large angulated long white spot on each 
 side ; four white small spots near the base of the spinnerets. 
 
 Male: Total length, 3.6 mm.; cephalothorax, 0.2 mm. long, 1.6 wide in the middle, 
 0.7 mm. in front; abdomen, 1.8 mm. long, 1.4 mm. wide. The cephalothorax is quite 
 pointed in front, overhanging the clypeus, dorsally flat, without grooves. Mandibles much 
 shorter and thinner than patella, one directed backward. The legs have long spines; 
 tibia-II not thickened, and has no special clasping armature. Coxa-I has a small toothlike 
 tubercle; coxa-IV has two vertical, sharp, and strong spines. On the outside of the maxillse 
 is a pointed, spinelike tubercle. 
 
 Distribution: Numbers of this species have been collected in California, where they 
 appear to be abundant, especially in the southern parts. It is found in Utah (Professor 
 Orson Howard), and I have taken it in Florida. Emerton appears to have found it in New 
 England. The facts of distribution, as thus far reported, would seem to indicate the intro- 
 duction of the species by immigration from Europe. 
 
 No. 78. Cyclosa Walckenaerii (Keyserling). Flate XVII, Figs. 1, la-d, 
 
 1892. Epeira Walckenaerii, Keyserung . Spinnen Amerikas, Epeirada:, p. 98, v., 85. 
 
 Female: Total length, 6.5 mm. ; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long, 1.7 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 4 mm. long, 2.5 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Oval, squarely truncate at the base, high in the middle, the sides 
 rounding to the crest, in which is located the fosse, a deep circular pit; color glossy brown, 
 with grayish pubescence; corselet grooves indistinct; the cephalic suture, on the contrary, 
 is so strongly marked that it presents almost the appearance of a neck, the suture passing 
 entirely around the corselet. (Fig. lb.) The head is thus quite divided from the central 
 portion of the corselet, the anterior being flattened into the necklike connection above 
 referred to. The head is rounded, somewhat quadrate or bluntly triangular; the vertex is 
 nearly as high as the crest of the corselet, slightly depressed at the face, which is broad ; 
 the color is brown, interspersed with gray hairs. The sternum is an elongated shield, 
 longer than wide, the apex prolonged and rounded, the sternal cones strongly marked, rising 
 into high rounded knobs before coxse-I, with a smaller cone between these two; these are 
 all colored yellow, as is the apex, and a connected median band in the centre of the 
 shield, giving thus a curious lumpy appearance to the organ. (Fig. la.) Outside of these 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 227 
 
 cones the color is brown, and there is a slight gray pubescence. The labium is wide, tri- 
 angular at the tip, which is yellow, the base being somewhat compressed, and brown ; 
 maxilkc as wide as or wider than long, the tips obtusely triangular, directed toward one 
 another; colored as the labium. 
 
 Eyes: The ocular quad has the front eyes upon a semicircular prominence, is higher 
 in front, where it, projects over the clypeus; the quad is decidedly longer than wide, wider 
 in front than behind; MF larger than MR, separated by about 1.3 diameter, while MR are 
 almost contingent. The side eyes are on elevated bases rather than tubercles; scarcely con- 
 tingent; SF larger than SR ; MF are separated from SF by about 1.8 their area, or at least 
 twice the intervening space of MF ; clypeus height about one diameter MF ; front eye row 
 much recurved; the longer rear row slightly procurved or aligned. 
 
 Legs: I, 4=2, 3; stout, yellow, with blackish brown apical annuli, and lighter median 
 ones; provided freely with bristles and hairs, and rather sparsely with stout black spines; 
 the palps have lighter color than the legs; the mandibles are long, parallel, as wide at the 
 tips as at the base, where they are well arched; somewhat receding; color glossy brown, 
 flecked with yellow. 
 
 Abdomen: Oval, widest at the base, where it is marked by two conical shoulder 
 humps; the front is rounded, somewhat narrowed, and overhangs the cephalothorax ; the 
 apex is marked by a wide conical hump, which is cleft at the top, and has a similar 
 smaller cone on either side; the dorsum is yellow, interspersed with brown, covered with 
 silvery white hairs; an indistinct folium, with a yellowish border inclosing a blackish 
 rectangular pattern, lies between the shoulder humps and the apical cones; the venter is 
 conical, the spinnerets being placed at the apex, underneath the middle part of the abdo- 
 men; the color (Fig. la) is brown, with a circular ring of yellow spots around the base of 
 the spinnerets; the epigynum (Fig. lb) presents a wide, semicircular, arched atriolum, 
 yellow, with grayish hairs, from the centre of which issues the scapus, which is wide at 
 the base, narrowed and rounded toward the tips, which slightly overhang the genital cleft. 
 It apparently lacks one moult of maturity. 
 
 Male: Plate XVII., Fig. 2. Smaller than the female. The cephalothorax has the 
 same general characteristics, but the interspace between the head and the corselet is not so 
 strongly marked. The head is well elevated. The abdomen is a rectangular ovate; the 
 dorsal cones smaller than in the female; the color is black, with cretaceous spots at the 
 base and near the middle. The legs are yellow, annulated with a light brown ; provided 
 with long, aculeate spines; without any special clasping apparatus upon tibia-II. I cannot 
 positively identify the individual here figured as the male of Cyclosa cervicula, but consider 
 the identity as highly probable. 
 
 Distribution: Two specimens, female, from California, one of them from Magdalena 
 Bay (Mr. C. H. Townsend) ; a male, San Diego, California, in the Marx Collection. Keyser- 
 ling described the species from Guatemala specimens. 
 
 No. 79. Cyclosa bifurca McCook. Plate XVII, Figs. 9, 10. 
 
 1887. Cyrtophora bifurca, McCook . . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 342. 
 1889. Cyclosa bifurca, McCook .... Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 1889. Cyclosa bifurca, Marx Catalogue. 
 
 Female: Total length, 7.5 mm. ; cephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 2.3 mm. broad; abdomen, 
 G mm. long, 3 mm. broad. 
 
 Cepiialothorax : The corselet high and well rounded ; the fosse deep, the grooves well 
 defined; cephalic suture deep and decided, sharply defining the head from the corselet; the 
 head is on the level of the corselet, and covered with grayish white hail's. The color is 
 green, fading out in alcohol to a light yellow. The sternum is shield shaped, darkish 
 brown along the margin, with irregular greenish median and radiating bands ; flattened ; 
 covered sparsely with gray hairs, pointed at the apex; almost as wide as long. The labium 
 large, triangular; the maxillre rounded, about as wide as long; color of both the last named 
 organs green. 
 
228 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Eyes: The ocular quad (Fig. 9c) is slightly wider in front, and is longer than wide^ 
 MFare separated by 1.7 diameter, and are larger than MR, which are separated by less than 
 a diameter; the space between MF and SF about equals the space between MF; SF'are 
 slightly smaller than SR, and the two eyes are scarcely contingent; SR placed well to the 
 side of SF, making with the front row of eyes a continuous curve. The space between MR 
 and SR is at least three times greater than between MR; front eye row recurved; rear row 
 slightly procurved; MF are placed close to the margin of the clypeus, and project over it. 
 
 Legs: 1, 4, 3, 2 ; the color in some specimens is dark green, with strong blackish 
 brown markings at tips of joints, which embrace half or more of the length of the femora; 
 in others these annular bands are less decided, leaving the legs, like the cephalothorax and 
 abdomen, prominently green ; they are rather sparingly armed with long brown spines and 
 with stout short bristles on the two terminal joints. The mandibles are conical, on the 
 same plane with the face, by which they are overhung. 
 
 Abdomen: A long oval, widest in front; color green, with a lighter band passing from 
 the base to the apex, in some individuals marked on the edges of the dorsum by scalloped 
 bands of light brownish hue. A median line of brown passes along the entire dorsum, with 
 curved radiating lines on either side. The dorsum is rounded at the base, curved down- 
 ward in the middle, and terminates in two decided points, separated by a deep triangular 
 bifurcation or notch, giving the apex the form of a fishes tail. Four conical tubercles are 
 placed on the base of the dorsum, two at the shoulders and two farther back more widely 
 separated than the former. The venter is a brownish patch, with median spots of green, 
 and a green marginal band between spinnerets and epigynum. The spinnerets are placed 
 nearly midway of the abdomen, caused by the greatly projecting caudal part; they are 
 surrounded by a broad white band, which extends along the venter as far as the epigynum, 
 which is a subtriangular flap, without prolonged scapus. (Fig. 9b.) 
 
 Male: The only male which I have is immature, apparently lacking one moult of 
 maturity. It is about 4.5 mm. in length, and resembles the female. (Fig. 10.) 
 
 Distribution: I found this species on Merritt's Island, Indian River, Florida, nested in 
 great numbers on the porch of a rustic hotel. Its general habits, snare, and method of pre- 
 serving its cocoons resemble that of Cyclosa conica and C. caudata. 
 
 No. 80. Cyclosa Thorelli, new species. Plate XIX, Fig. 11. 
 
 Female: Not quite mature. Total length, 11 mm.; abdomen, 8 mm. long, 2 wide; 
 cephalothorax, 3.5 mm. long, 1.7 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothobax : A long oval, truncated and scalloped at the base, high and peaked ; 
 the fosse a deep slit along the summit of the corselet, which decidedly slopes both back- 
 ward and forward; the head much depressed; almost as wide at the face as at the cephalic 
 suture, which is indistinct. Color dark yellowish brown, with yellowish irregular streakings 
 upon summit of corselet and base of caput. Both corselet and caput sparsely furnished 
 with short, white, bristlclike hairs, which continue around the face. The sternum (Fig. lib) 
 shield shaped, with scalloped edges pointed at the apex; decidedly longer than wide; the 
 sternal cones well marked; rounded in the middle; color yellowish brown. The labium is 
 triangular; not more than one-third the height of the maxilhe, which are rounded, of a 
 distinct Epeiroid type, but slightly longer than wide. 
 
 Legs: 1, 4, 2, 3; stout; not heavily armored, although in the specimen under descrip- 
 tion the spines and bristles have been lost in the alcohol. Color yellowish, without annul] ; 
 but with traces of longitudinal stripes on some of the joints. The mandibles are conical ; 
 quite divergent at the tips, and sloping backward a little toward the sternum. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad (Fig. 10c) longer than wide, and the front slightly longer than the 
 rear; MF are black, and separated by at least 2.5 times their diameter; and are smaller 
 than MR, which are amber color, and separated by about 1.5 their diameter. The quad is 
 placed upon a smooth rounded prominence. The side eyes are distinctly separated, but 
 approximated; SF larger than SR; the latter placed well to the side; the two upon a slight 
 tubercle. SR are widely separated from MR by at least twice the area of the latter ; MF 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 229 
 
 avo separated from SF by a little more than their area. The front row is slightly recurved ; 
 the rear row strongly procurved. The clypeus margin is distant from MF by two or more 
 diameters. 
 
 Abdomen: Elongated oval, much longer than wide; thickest at the base, where it over- 
 hangs the cephalothorax, narrowing at the apex to a caudal part. The spinnerets are 
 placed a little short of the middle point of the venter (Fig. 11a), which is drawn downward 
 somewhat into a subtriangular shape. The color and pattern of the folium are indistinct in 
 the specimen, but the latter appears to be a median ribbon of brown color extending quite 
 from the base to the apex, with a narrow border of yellow on either side. Beyond this 
 again upon # the dorsum is a belt of brown, succeeded by a mottled band of yellow, and 
 still lower upon the belly a broader band of blackish brown. The ventral pattern is a long 
 brownish ribbon extending between the spinnerets and the epigynum, bordered by the 
 yellow band already referred to, along the lower part of the sides. The caudal part 
 beneath is mottled with yellow and brown, principally the latter. The specimen appears 
 to be scarcely mature; the epigynum (Fig. 10b) is without scapus, and indicates a subtri- 
 angular hood, widest in front, where it is apparently a little notched, with lateral slits on 
 either side opening underneath the hooded atriolum. 
 
 Distribution : Key West, Florida. Specimen received from Dr. Marx. 
 
 Genus SINGA, C. Koch, 1837. 
 
 This genus is composed almost exclusively of small species, which in general appearance 
 suggest certain species of the Retitelarioe, with which the female especially may easily be 
 confounded. It approximates Epeira in the form of the cephalothorax and mouth organs, 
 and in the general stoutness and brevity of the legs. The cephalothorax is constructed 
 as in Epeira, but the caput is more evidently arched, and not so much depressed toward the 
 face; the surface is less pubescent, and is glossy. The siderear eyes are removed from the 
 midrear usually by a space only a little greater than that which separates between the 
 midrear and the midfront. The midfront eyes are separated from the sidefront by a space 
 which is usually not much greater than, or nearly equal to, the space which separates the 
 midfront eyes. Westring in his diagnosis stales that in one species only (S. melanoccphala) 
 do the midrear eyes approximate one another more closely than the midfront eyes. But in 
 American species considerable difference exists among the various species in the relation, 
 size, and position of the midfront and midrear eyes. Indeed, the genus may easily be 
 divided into several groups, according as the midrear are larger than or smaller than the 
 midfront eyes, or are arranged in a line shorter or longer. The clypeus in some species, 
 especially in the living examples of the male, is not much narrower than the space between 
 the midfront and midrear eyes. The mandibles and maxillae are shaped as in Epeira. 
 The- legs are stout, and rather sparingly armed with stubby spines. The palps of the 
 male are short; the digital bulb almost wider than the femur of the front legs; and the 
 cubital is usually clothed with the normal two exceedingly long robust bristles. Coxa-I in 
 the male is usually without any apical dentieulation, but there arc some exceptions to this. 
 The abdomen is obtusely oval or shortly eliptical; but little pubescent; the skin glossy. 
 Its markings frequently consist of longitudinal fillets of cretaceous or yellowish black color. 
 The snare is like that of Epeira in its general characteristics. 
 
 No. 81. Singa Mollybyrnae, new species. Plate XIX, Fig. l. 
 
 1889. Singa Mollybymm, M.uix in /ill. . Catalogue, p. 549 (Keyserling in liii.). 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; abdomen, 3.5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 1.8 mm. long, l.G mm. wide. This species resembles certain forms of S. variabilis, but is at 
 once distinguished by the ocular quad being wider in front, instead of the reverse, as in 
 S. variabilis. 
 
230 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK 
 
 Cephalothorax : A rounded oval, almost as broad as long; corselet highest in the 
 centre, sloping sharply behind from the caput to the face; corselet grooves not distinct; 
 cephalic suture marked, thus sharply delineating the caput; fosse, a longitudinal pit; color 
 orange yellow, darker on the centre of the caput to the face, which is blackish. Sternum 
 shield shaped, manifestly longer than wide; sternal cones well marked, slightly pubescent; 
 color orange yellow to yellow, like the surrounding coxa?; labium suhtriangular, widest at 
 the base; maxilla? as wide as long; rather obtusely triangular at the tip, and, like the 
 labium, yellow in color, with darker shades at the base. 
 
 Eros: Ocular quad on a blackish eminence, wider in front than behind, the sides 
 somewhat longer than front ; MF somewhat larger than MR, and separated by a little more 
 than one diameter; MR by not more than a radius; SR on slight tubercles; SF longer than 
 SR, and separated by about a diameter of the latter, the dividing space being greater than 
 that between SR. SF removed from MF by a space but little greater than that which 
 separates the latter; SR removed from MR by a space manifestly greater than that which 
 separates SF and MF. Front row recurved, rear row slightly procurved, or aligned ; clypeus 
 height about one diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout; yellow, with slight tinge of orange; the tips of the joints 
 annulated with brown ; the armature is more decided than with many species of Shiga, the 
 bristles passing into light, long, yellowish spines. The palps are colored as the legs; the 
 maxilla; conical, strong, brownish yellow color, as the sternum ; curved at the base, but not 
 extending beyond the eyes, which, however, project slightly over the face. 
 
 Abdomen: A short oval, thickest at the base, and diminishing somewhat toward the 
 apex ; the entire dorsal field is a reticulated cretaceous color, with an indistinct marginal 
 band, which is strongest on the front, and which continues along the side. A black 
 irregular line extends along the median, with branches to the dark impressed dots, which 
 arc increased to four at and along the apex. The sides are yellowish white, merging into 
 brown, the whole beautifully reticulated. The ventral pattern a quadrilateral patch of 
 yellowish or testaceous color, extending to the spinnerets, which are light brown. The 
 epigynum (Fig. lc) has a short spooned scapus, very wide at the tip, extending to the 
 margin of the atriolum, leaving the portulse well displayed on either side. 
 
 Distribution : Biscayne Bay, Florida ; District of Columbia, where it was taken in 
 June by Dr. Marx, to whom I am indebted for the single specimen here described. I have 
 adopted the name suggested by him, which was given in honor of one of his lady friends. 
 
 No. 82. Singa Keyserlingi, now species. Plate XIX, Figs. 2, 2a-c. 
 
 1889. Singa rubella, Marx Catalogue, p. 549 (Epeira rubella, Hentz). 
 
 1893. Singa rubella, Keyserling .... Spinn. Amerik. Epeir., p. 284, xiv., 209. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5.0 mm.; cephalothorax, 2+ mm. long, 1.5 mm. median width; 
 at the face, nearly 1 mm. ; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 2 mm. broad. Dr. Marx in his Catalogue 
 considers this species identical with Ilentz's Epeira rubella, Sp. U. S., page 120, pi. 31, Fig. 
 22; but I find it impossible to agree with this opinion. The eyes are not unlike, and the 
 broad, median, longitudinal band which traverses the abdomen at least suggests the folial 
 stripe of this species. But apart from difference in general form, the characters of the 
 legs, and especially of the maxilla;, in Hentz's drawings are so wholly unlike those of the 
 specimens in hand that they cannot be attributed to the same species. I have, therefore, 
 felt it necessary to propose a new name. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Oval, corselet rather high, sloping behind ; base of caput raised 
 above level of corselet, but sloping to the face; fosse a lateral pit; corselet grooves suffi- 
 ciently distinct; cephalic suture decided, giving the head a marked delineation; color 
 reddish brown; skin glossy, with slight pubescence; the caput a blackish brown to blackish, 
 smooth, glossy, a little pubescence. Sternum shield shaped ; somewhat longer than broad, 
 with sternal cones before; cut square in front; a broad, yellow, median band, with a margin 
 of blackish brown; slightly pubescent. Labium triangular, color dark brown, less than half 
 the height of maxilla;; maxilla; as wide as, or wider than, long; squarish at the tip. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 231 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded prominence, which projects in front, leaving MF on 
 separate tubercles; decidedly wider in front than behind, and length greater than front 
 width. MR separated by about 1.5 diameters, MF by scarcely more than a radius; space 
 between MF and SF but little greater than that between MF; side eyes on tubercles, 
 separated by about a radius; not greatly differing in size, but SF somewhat larger. Front 
 row recurved, rear row, which is decidedly longer, slightly procurved, almost aligned. The 
 space between SR and MR is about twice the diameter of the latter ; the clypeus about the 
 height of one diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, short, yellow, with dark shades upon the femora; well provided 
 with yellowish bristles and gray pubescence ; sufficiently provided with stout, brownish 
 spines ; palps colored and armed as the legs ; mandibles blackish brown ; conical ; parallel ; 
 slightly inclined backward. 
 
 Abdomen: A long oval, not greatly differing in width throughout, but widest at the 
 middle, and in specimens in hand rather narrowed at the base, which much overhangs the 
 cephalothorax. The skin is glossy, covered with a yellowish white pubescence, which, being 
 removed, leaves numerous minute pits. The folium is outlined on either side by a broad 
 brown band, somewhat undulating at the margin ; while a reticulated yellow ribbon occu- 
 pies the median, narrowing both at the front and the apex, on either side of which are 
 symmetrically placed five impressed dots, of which the basal pair are the largest. Both on 
 the base and apex the brown marginal bands deepen into black. On the sides are reticu- 
 lated ribbons of yellow, like that upon the dorsal median, and below this again mottled 
 bands of brown, which quite encompass the spinnerets and the apex of the abdomen, 
 which projects beyond the spinnerets about quarter the length of the venter. The latter 
 is a broad band of brownish color, with interrupted and reticulated yellowish marginal 
 ribbons, which pass as far as the spinnerets. The epigynum (Fig. 2b) has a short, sub- 
 rectangular, spooned scapus, which does not extend beyond the apical margin of the 
 atrioluin, which presents towards the venter a deeply indented parm. 
 
 Distribution: St. Louis, Missouri; District of Columbia. (Marx Collection.) I am com- 
 pelled here to differ with the opinion of Dr. Marx (expressed both in his Catalogue and 
 in the Synonyma of Keyserling's Epeirida2) that this species is Hentz's Epeira rubella. 
 The thin legs and characters of the cephalothorax and abdomen, as shown in Hentz's 
 drawings, appear to me to be too unlike the spider here described to justify the supposed 
 identity. 
 
 No. 83. Singa Listerii, new species. Plate XIX, Figs. 3, 4. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; abdomen, 3.5 mm. long, 2 mm. wide. This species closely 
 resembles S. Keyserlingi ; but in a large number of specimens from Georgia and North 
 Carolina the differences in the shape and markings of the abdomen and color of the head 
 are persistent. The midfront eyes are smaller than, or at least equal to, the midrear, while 
 in S. Keyserlingi the midfront eyes are the larger. The ocular quad in S. Keyserlingi is 
 relatively wider in front than in S. Listerii, wherein the quad is slightly narrower than, or 
 at least equal to, the midrear area. Moreover, in S. Keyserlingi the side eyes are well 
 separated, while in S. Listerii they are nearly contingent. 
 
 Cepualothorax : Oval ; the corselet high, well rounded, cordiform ; the fosse a lateral 
 pit; sloping to the base, which is notched; base of caput not lower than summit of corselet; 
 the head slightly elevated in the middle, but depressed at the face ; cephalic suture well 
 marked; corselet grooves distinct; color glossy; slightly pubescent; yellow, with dark 
 streaks along the corselet grooves and caput; sternum shield shaped, slightly longer than 
 broad; sternal cones distinct before all the coxa;; dark brown, with a lighter yellowish 
 band in the centre, where it is elevated ; labium subtriangular, color of sternum, not half 
 the height of the maxillae, which arc colored as the sternum, as wide as long. 
 
 Eyes: Fig. 3b. Ocular quad on a rounded eminence, the centre of which is blackish; 
 the width in front slightly narrower than behind, or at least not wider; the sides of 
 greatest length; MF somewhat smaller than MR; MF separated by about or a little more 
 
232 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 than a diameter; MR separated a little less than a diameter; side eyes on tubercles, about 
 equal in size; almost contingent; SF removed from MF by about the area of the latter, the 
 intervening space being about 1.5 MF; front row recurved, longer rear row slightly pro- 
 curved; clypeus height about two diameters MF; the front eyes project somewhat beyond 
 the bases of the mandibles. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, of uniform yellow color, well provided with yellowish hairs, 
 and a few short, feeble, dark spines, with a few stout bristles; the palps are colored as the 
 legs; the mandibles conical, yellow, thick at the bases, and slightly retreating towards the 
 sternum. 
 
 Abdomen: Oval, considerably longer than broad; slightly thicker across the shoulders, 
 and diminishing but little towards the apex, which is high above the spinnerets; the latter 
 placed immediately beneath the apical wall ; the base extends well over the corselet. The 
 dorsum has a broad, median, yellow ribbon, in the centre of which runs longitudinally, the 
 entire length, an irregular thread of brownish hue ; on either side are longitudinal bands 
 of brown extending to the base in front, and quite to the spinnerets posteriorly. These are 
 followed on each side by a band of yellow similar to those on the dorsum, and this again 
 lower down upon the sides by a broader longitudinal band of brown, which extends to the 
 venter. These markings give to the dorsum the appearance of being longitudinally striped. 
 The skin is glossy, pubescent, and reticulated over the entire surface. The original color of 
 the specimens is lost in the alcohol, but appears to be brown and yellow. The venter has 
 an oblong band of yellowish brown, with a bright marginal ribbon of yellow on either side, 
 the latter surrounding the dark spinnerets in interrupted lines. The epigynum (Fig. 3a) 
 has a rather wide atriolum, with a short, rounded, subtriangular scapus extending a little 
 beyond the margins of the portulse, which are slits under the atriolum. 
 
 The male (Fig. 4) is somewhat smaller than the female, being 4 mm. in length. In 
 marking and color it quite closely resembles the female, but the hues appear to be some- 
 what lighter. The palpal digits are distinguished as in Fig. 4a. 
 
 Distribution : Georgia and North Carolina. Specimens presented by Mr. Thomas Gentry. 
 
 No. 84. Singa nigripes Keysermng. Plate XIX, Figs. 5, 6. 
 
 1863. Singa nigripes, Keyserlinq . . . Neue Spinn. Amer., v., p. 055, pi. 21., Fig. 7. 
 
 1889. Singa nigripes, Marx Catalogue, p. 549. 
 
 1893. Singa nigripes, Keyserling . .. . Spinnen. Amerik. Epeir., p. 290, xv., 214. 
 
 Female: Total length, 3.5 mm.; abdomen, 2+ mm. long, 1.75 mm. wide. The general 
 colors are orange and yellow, and on the abdomen a light reddish yellow or ash color, 
 except on the legs, where the last three members in most species are black or blackish. 
 This peculiarity of the feet casually marks the species, in connection with the black spots 
 on the abdominal dorsum. 
 
 Cepiialothorax : A well rounded oval, elevated in the centre, sharply sloping behind 
 the caput; prominent, squarish, slightly pubescent; corselet and head a uniform orange, 
 with a slightly darker shade on the marked cephalic suture ; the sternum heart shaped, 
 almost triangular, wide in front, much rounded at the apex ; sternal cones distinct, flattened 
 in the middle, very slightly pubescent; color orange yellow, uniform with the surrounding 
 coxae and the mouth parts; the width in front almost equal to the length. Labium tri- 
 angular; maxillte as broad as long, cut square at the tips. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded eminence, whose interior is blackish, thus sharply 
 contrasted with the orange color of the face; front somewhat narrower than rear, the sides 
 somewhat longest; MF slightly smaller than MR, separated by about one diameter, MR by 
 a less space. MF from SF by about their area, the intervening space about that between 
 MF and MR. Side eyes on a slight tubercle; contiguous; SR separated from MR by a 
 space about equal to the area of the latter; clypeus high, the margin separated from MF 
 by at least three or more diameters. Front eye row recurved, rear row slightly procurved, 
 nearly aligned. The caput somewhat contracted at the face, which projects over the 
 mandibles. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 233 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; sufficiently pubescent upon the apical joints, which are blackish, or 
 in some specimens a darkish yellow; without spines, but with long yellowish bristles; palps 
 colored and armored as legs; mandibles uniform in color with the head, conical, strong, 
 slightly retreating, and overhung by the frontal eye space. 
 
 Abdomen : An even oval ; dorsum arched ; color ashen gray ; folium a light square of 
 reticulated yellow or cretaceous, occupying the middle of the dorsum, marked at the corners 
 by four black spots, of which the two basal are more widely separated. In some specimens 
 an indistinct, interrupted double line of yellow passes along the middle of this folium, 
 and shapes itself upon the front in an indistinct lance headed figure. The impressed spots 
 are prominent upon the dorsum ; the skin is covered with soft, short pubescence. The 
 venter, like the sides, is a light ashen color, the spinnerets, which arc just beneath the 
 apical wall, being somewhat lighter in color. The epigynum (Fig. 5b) has a very slight, 
 short scapus, of uniform length. 
 
 Male: Somewhat smaller than the female, 2.5 mm. long, and in general color and 
 markings resembles it. Cephalothorax bright orange; the head somewhat more pointed at 
 the face than the female ; the legs without any special clasping apparatus, but with bristle- 
 like spines, more numerous and longer; the palps (Fig. G'a) rather stout, joints orange color, 
 except the digital, which is greatly distended, and colored as the feet. 
 
 Disthihution : Specimens have been taken as far southeast as Florida, southwest in 
 Texas, and as far to the northwest as Nebraska. (Marx Collection.) This would indicate 
 a wide distribution over the United States. 
 
 No. 85. Singa variabilis Emerton. Plate XX, Figs. 11, 12, 13; PI. XIX, Fig. 7. 
 
 1884. Singa variabilis, Emerton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 332, xxxiv., 10. 
 1889. Singa variabilis, Marx Catalogue, p. 550. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4 mm.; abdomen, 2.75 mm. long by 1.75 mm. wide; cephalo- 
 thorax, 1.5 mm. long by 1+ mm. wide. The individuals of this species, as may be 
 observed from the drawings on the plate, differ so greatly in color that it is hard to 
 determine the typical colors. The specimen of which description is made (Fig. 12) is, in 
 front, yellowish brown ; and for the abdomen a drab or cretaceous hue for the field, with 
 longitudinal markings of silvery white. Some of the specimens (Fig. 11) have the abdo- 
 men a uniform glossy black. These changes of color do not depend upon moulting stages, 
 but appear in adult individuals of both sexes. 
 
 Cei'halotiiorax : A rounded oval, high in the centre, from which the corselet slopes 
 sharply backward ; the fosse overhung by the abdomen ; the head rounded and erect above 
 the corselet; cephalic suture strongly marked; corselet grooves indistinct; color yellow, 
 mottled with splotches of brown ; sternum shield shape, glossy black ; sternal cones dis- 
 tinct; flat in the centre, which is raised; very little pubescence. Labium triangular, wide 
 at the base, more than half as high as the maxillse, which are rather rounded at the tip, 
 as broad as long; color, blackish brown at the bases, and lighter brown at the tips. 
 
 Eyes: The entire eye space glossy black; the ocular quad on a high eminence, 
 narrower in front than behind; longest at the sides; MF somewhat smaller than MR, and 
 separated by about 1.5 diameters, MR by about one diameter. Side eyes on tubercles; 
 subequal, but MF apparently somewhat smaller than MR, divided by about or less than a 
 radius; separated from MF by a little more than the space which divides the latter; the 
 distance between SR and MR is greater than that between SF and MF; front row recurved, 
 rear row procurved; clypeus rather high, measured from MF to the margin, but the black 
 central eminence extends very close to the margin. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; short, stout, yellowish color, in harmony with the corselet; abundant 
 yellowish hairs, which are blackish upon the feet, and a few bristlelike spines; the palps 
 colored and armed as the legs; the mandibles stout, parallel, and not retreating backward. 
 
 Abdomen : An oval, longer than broad ; the dorsum arched ; the base overhanging the 
 cephalothorax ; the spinnerets placed beneath the apical wall ; color greatly varying, from 
 silvery white, drab, and yellow to black, with brown longitudinal markings, or blackish 
 
234 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 brown. The ventral pattern is a broad blackish stripe between the dark spinnerets and 
 the epigynum, which is yellow. This organ (Fig. 11a) has a short scapus of nearly equal 
 length throughout, but somewhat widened at the tip, which is directed downward, in some 
 specimens so decidedly as to touch and seem to unite with the margin of the portulse. 
 
 Male: Fig. 13. Smaller than the female, being 2.5 mm. long by 1+ mm. wide; the 
 cephalothorax is somewhat wider; the head more pointed and less prominent. The legs 
 are longer, relatively, and thinner, without any special clasping apparatus or thickening of 
 tibia-II, but with some longer spinous bristles. The sternum in the specimen under 
 description is orange yellow, corresponding with the coloring of the surrounding coxte, 
 instead of jet black, as in the female. The palps are stout, and long for so small a species. 
 
 Distribution: Throughout New England, in Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut; in the 
 District of Columbia, and as far to the northwest as Hill City, Southern Dakota. (Marx.) 
 These widely separated points of collection indicate a wide distribution. 
 
 No. 86. Singa maura (IIentz). Plate XIX, Figs. 8, 8a-d. 
 
 1847. Epeira maura, Hentz J. S. B., v., p. 474; Sp. TJ. S., p. 114, xiii., 8. 
 
 1889. Singa maura, Marx Catalogue, p. 549. 
 
 1893. Singa maura, Keyserling .... Spinn. Amerikas, Epeir., p. 283, xiv., 208. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5.5 mm.; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 3 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 2.5 mm. long, 2 mm. wide. General colors of the fore part of the body are a rich brown 
 to yellow, and of the abdomen black, with folium marks of yellow. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A well rounded oval, high ; the fosse overhung by the abdomen ; the 
 base sharply sloping; corselet grooves deeply marked; cephalic suture distinct; head prom- 
 inent; the base of the caput as high as the corselet; color a uniform glossy orange brown; 
 slightly pubescent. Sternum shield shaped, slightly longer than wide; sternal cones dis- 
 tinct, but not prominent; slightly raised, but flat in the centre; color a uniform orange 
 brown, in harmony with the legs and mouth organs. Labium subtriangular, not half as 
 high as the maxilla;, which are as broad as long, cut, squarely at the tips. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded, blackish eminence, especially prominent in front, 
 which makes MF project beyond the mandibles; the front decidedly wider than rear, the 
 side longest; MF manifestly larger than MR, and separated by 1.5 to 2 diameters, while 
 MR are separated by about a radius. Side eyes on separate tubercles, SF most pronounced, 
 and with dark brown base; separated from each other by at least, or more than, a 
 diameter; about equal in size. SF removed from MF by a space not greatly different from 
 that between MF. Front eye row decidedly recurved, the longer rear row aligned, but 
 appears slightly procurved when viewed from in front and beneath on the same line with 
 the front row; the clypeus height is about 1.5 diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; short, stout, uniform orange brown, except tips of feet, which are 
 black; well covered with yellowish hairs, and a few slight yellowish spines or spinous 
 bristles. The palps are armed and colored as the legs, with black tips heavily pubescent; 
 the mandibles conical, strong, colored as the corselet, slightly retreating towards the sternum. 
 
 Abdomen: A well rounded oval, whose width differs little throughout; the skin is 
 glossy, covered sparingly with soft yellowish hairs ; the dorsal folium marked in some 
 species by a whitish or yellow spot upon the base, followed toward the apex by two 
 similar and smaller patches, and still further by a transverse patch, or lunette. In other 
 specimens this is yellow, reticulated, and the terminal patches united by an irregular 
 median band. On either side are interrupted patches of yellow or cretaceous color. The 
 field of the dorsum is glossy, blackish brown, lighter in some specimens. The rounded 
 apex somewhat overhangs the spinnerets. The venter has a glossy, brownish rectangle, 
 outlined on either side by patches of yellow. The epigynum (Fig. 8b) is without an 
 elongated scapus, the median projection of the atriolum being simply marked by a brown 
 chitinous ridge, semicircular in shape, with the concavity directed forward. 
 
 Distribution: Hentz found the species in Alabama, Marx in the District of Columbia. 
 (Marx Collection.) 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 235 
 
 No. 87. Singa maculata (Emhrtoh). Plate XIX, Figs. 9, 9a, 9b. 
 
 1884. Singa maculata, Emerton- . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 323, xxxvii., 18. 
 
 1889. Singa maculata, Marx Catalogue Described Aranea;, p. 549. 
 
 1893. Singa maculata, Keyserling . . Spinn. Amerik., Epeir., p. 285, xiv., 210. 
 
 Female: Total length, 3+ mm.; abdomen, 2 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 1.4 mm. long, 0.6 mm. wide. This is a small species, and although Emerton's description, 
 as usual, is extremely insufficient, and he gives only a figure of the epigynum, the draw- 
 ings as above and description as below probably point to the species above named by him. 
 
 Cepiialothorax : Oval, with corselet margins well rounded; about one-fifth longer than 
 broad; in front more than half as wide as in the middle; corselet grooves tolerably dis- 
 tinct ; median fosse rather fiat ; cephalic suture well marked ; the head prominent, some- 
 what depressed at the face, where it projects beyond the mandibles. Color of corselet 
 orange brown, with rather lighter shade upon base of caput, which deepens into black or 
 blackish around the ocular area. Sternum shield shaped, about or almost as broad as long; 
 orange brown color ; the labium and palps about as in S. Keyserlingi, brownish yellow in color. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad on a rounded eminence ; narrower in front than behind ; length 
 about equal to, scarcely greater than, rear width ; MR decidedly larger than MF ; MF 
 separated by about two diameters, and by the same or a little greater distance from MR, 
 which are separated by about 1.5 of their diameter; side eyes amber color, scarcely con- 
 tingent, about equal in size, upon a slight tubercle ; SR apparently larger than SF ; MF 
 separated from SF by about their area, the intervening space being somewhat greater than 
 between SF and MF; clypcus high, equal to about two or more diameters MF. The 
 forehead, viewed from the front, is high, and semicircular in outline. The front eye row 
 is slightly recurved, the rear row procurved. 
 
 Legs : Short, stout, brownish or orange yellow ; sparsely pubescent ; without annuli ; 
 with 'a few stout bristles, or bristlelike spines. Palps as the legs; mandibles slightly 
 inclined backward ; orange brown. 
 
 Abdomen : An oval, longer than broad ; dorsum arched, and apex as thick as the base ; 
 the spinnerets distal, or placed immediately beneath the rounded apical wall ; skin glossy, 
 and rather inclined to silvery in alcoholic specimens; covered with grayish pubescence. 
 The dorsum is marked by a broad folium, with blackish outlines, limited by a dark 
 transverse band at the rounded part of the apex ; four prominent impressed spots mark the 
 central portion of the dorsum. The sides, along the base, are marked by a little longitu- 
 dinal patch of yellow or cretaceous. At each shoulder of the dorsum is a circular spot of 
 black, almost resembling an eye ; the folium is cut off squarely at the apical part of the 
 dorsum, leaving a blackish, semicircular, lateral band, beyond which is a reticulated narrow 
 band of yellow. The ventral pattern is a black quadrilateral, bordered on all sides by a band 
 of yellow, including the spinnerets, which are of like color. The epigynum (Fig 8b) in the 
 specimen in my possession is much damaged, and I give the organ as figured by Emerton. 
 
 Distribution : New England (Emerton) ; District of Columbia. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 Genus CYRTOPHORA, Simon, 1864. 
 
 The chief distinguishing characteristics of Cyrtophora are the eyes and abdomen. The 
 eight eyes are arranged in three distinct groups, as in Epeira, but the side eyes, instead 
 of being contingent or approximated, are, relatively, widely separated, thus resembling some 
 of the species of Tetragnatha. The space between the sidefront and midfront eyes is but 
 little, if any, greater than that between, the two midfront eyes; the eye rows are both 
 slightly recurved. The cephalothorax is short and rather feeble, the head, relatively, 
 long and powerful. The sternum is triangular, the labium low, the maxillae wide at 
 the tips and compressed at the shank, and somewhat longer than wide. The legs are in 
 order of length 1, 2, 4, 3, and, for so small a species, quite stout, but rather scantily 
 armored. The abdomen is conical, tuberculated, and carried in a position nearly perpen- 
 dicular to the plane of the cephalothorax. 
 
236 AMERICAN SPIDKKS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 No. 88. Cyrtophora tuberculata Keyserling. Plate XVII, Fig. 11. 
 
 1889. Cyrtophora tuberculata, Marx in lilt. . Catalogue, p. 549. (Keyserling in M.) 
 1893. Cyrtophora tuberculata, Keyserling . Spinn. Amerikas, Epeir., p. 265, xiv., 197. 
 
 Female: Total length, 3 mm.; cephalothorax, 1.4 mm. long, middle width 1 mm., 
 front width 0.7 mm. ; abdomen, 1.9 mm. long, 1.4 mm. broad. 
 
 Cephalotiiorax : One-third longer than broad, in front two-thirds as broad as in the 
 middle; corselet grooves deep; median fosse feeble or wanting; sternum triangular, a little 
 longer than broad. The labium rounded at the tip, low, being twice as broad as long, and 
 not quite half as long as the maxillae, which are as long as, or slightly longer, than broad, 
 in front a little broader and truncate. Color of corselet yellow ; sternum and mouth parts 
 spotted brown. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad longer than broad, and narrow behind (Fig. He); MF separated 
 by about one diameter, and a little further removed from MR, which are smaller and con- 
 tingent; MF are distant from SF by little more than the space between themselves. The 
 side eyes are as widely separated as MF, more widely separated than MR, and about as far 
 apart as SF and MF; they are on separate elevations. The clypeus is low, about as high 
 as half the diameter of MF. Both eye rows are about equally and moderately recurved, 
 and differ little in length, the rear row being slightly longer. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 5.2, 4.4, 3.3, and 2.4 mm. They are sparsely pubescent, 
 with a few isolated spines on the upper sides of the joints; color yellow, with brown 
 annuli. The palps are similarly marked. The mandibles are longer than the patella, and 
 as thick as femur-I. 
 
 Abdomen: One-fourth longer than broad, rounded at the base, attenuated towards the 
 spinnerets, giving the dorsum a shieldlike shape. Two roundish tubercles are situated upon 
 the shoulders, two smaller ones, more closely approximated, near the middle region on 
 either side of the median band. (Fig. lib.) The dorsum is arched ; reticulated ; the color 
 white, but marked at the base, apex, and sides with blackish spots. The dorsal pattern is 
 a rather broad, irregular, scalloped, whitish band passing down the median line, widened 
 into a narrow shape on the apical part, beyond the posterior tubercles. On either margin of 
 this median band are broad irregular margins of black or blackish. The venter is dark, with 
 a white spot in the middle; the epigynum (Fig. Ha) a flaplike atriolum, without a scapus. 
 
 Distribution: Florida. The description has been made from two female specimens in 
 the collection of Dr. George Marx. 
 
 Genus ZILLA, C. Koch, 1837. 
 
 In Zilla the cephalothorax is constructed substantially as in Epeira, rather small 
 and weak, but is little pubescent; it is moderately convex, the cephalic part, in females at 
 least, sufficiently large. The siderear eyes are separated from the midrear eyes by a space 
 not greater, or, in the male, but little greater, than that between the midfront and midrear 
 eyes. The midfront eyes are removed from the sidefront by a space not greater than that 
 which divides themselves. The midfront eyes are a little larger than the midrear as a rule. 
 The rear row of eyes (seen from above) is nearly aligned or slightly recurved. The face 
 does not project beyond the margin of the mandibles. The sternum, mandibles, and 
 maxillae arc formed as in Epeira. The palps in the male are tolerably long, the humeral 
 joint being either equal to or but little longer than the patella of the first pair of legs. 
 The legs, unlike Epeira, are provided with few spines, but are sufficiently armored with 
 hairs and bristles. The femora about the middle have only one to two spines, and, 
 as in many species of Epeira, about the apex itself are two to three spines. Abdomen 
 is a short oval, subelliptical, depressed, sufficiently pubescent, and with a slight silvery 
 lustre. The dorsal area is marked, as in many Epeira, with a folium included within a 
 sinuate margin. The snare is a vertical orb, with an open sector above the median, by 
 which the viscid spirals are looped backward and forward across the radii. (See Vol. I., 
 page 140.) Through the open sector a trapline connects the centre of the web with a bell 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 237 
 
 shaped nest, within which the spicier dwells. This trapline and nest are placed above the 
 horizontal centre of the orb, but indifferently to the right or left, or directly above the same. 
 
 No. 89. Zilla x-notata (Clerck). Plate XVIII, Figs. 1, 2. 
 
 1757. Araneus x-notalus, Clerck .... Svenska Spindl., p. 46, pi. 2, tab. 5. 
 
 1757. Aranea x-notata, Clerck .... Ibid., p. 154. 
 
 1789. Aranea lilerala, Ollivier .... Encyclopedic Methodique, iv., p. 206. 
 
 1802. Aranea calophylla, Walckenaer . Faune Par., ii., p. 200. (In part.) 
 
 1805. JSpeira calophylla, Walckenaer . Tabl. d. Aran., p. 62. (In part.) 
 
 1832. JSpeira calophylla, Sundevall . . Svenska Spindlarness. 
 
 1834. Zijgia calophylla, Koch, C. L. . . Herr.-Schaeff., Deutschl. Ins., 123. 
 
 1839. Zilla, calophylla, Koch, C. L. . . Die Arachn., vi., p. 148, Taf. cexvi., 538, 539. 
 
 1844. Epeira mmilis, Blackwall . . . Ann. & Mag. Nat. Hist., xiii., 186. 
 
 1858. Zilla x-notata, Thorell Om Clercks Original Spindel-samling, p. 146. 
 
 1861. Zilla x-notata, Westrinq .... Aranea? Svecicse, p. 71. 
 
 1864. JSpeira similis, Blackwall. . . . Sp. G. B. & I., ii., 337, xxv., 244. 
 
 1884. Zilla x-notata, Emerton N. E. Ep., p. 324, pis. 34, 37, 40. 
 
 1889. Zilla x-notata, McCook Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 1889. Zilla x-notata, Marx Catalogue Described Aranese. 
 
 Female: Total length, 8 mm.; abdomen, 6 mm. long by 5 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 4 mm. long by 2.5 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A shortened oval ; the fosse a longitudinal depression ; corselet 
 grooves sufficiently distinct; cephalic suture distinct; caput slightly depressed; color pale 
 yellow, with a brownish patch on the summit; glossy, slightly pubescent. The sternum 
 longer than broad, rounded at the apex; shield shaped; a wide, rounded, yellow band in 
 the middle; sternal cones distinct. Labium subtriangular ; yellow, as are also the maxilla?, 
 which are subtriangular at the tip. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad slightly wider behind ; a little longer at the sides ; MF separated 
 by a little more than one diameter; MR, which are smaller, by about 1.5 diameter. Side 
 eyes barely contingent; SR somewhat the larger, but not greatly differing in size; removed 
 from MF by a space about equal to that between MF. Front row recurved, rear row longer 
 and procurved; clypeus height about one diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; rather stout; sparsely armored with spines; color pale yellow, with 
 slight annuli at the joints, and median indistinct annuli on the femora beneath. 
 
 Abdomen: Oval; of nearly equal widtli throughout; the dorsum scarcely, or but little, 
 arched; color yellow; the folium outlined with black, the edges being scalloped; skin with 
 a subdued sheen. The epigynum is without manifest scapus, and consists of a hood shaped 
 atriolum, penetrated by portnlro on either side; color dark brown. 
 
 Male: Fig. 2a. Length, 6.5 mm. Resembles the female in markings. The legs are 
 not so stout, relatively; tibia-II without any special clasping apparatus; not thickened at 
 the apex. Color yellowish, with brown annuli at the tips of the joints, and median annuli 
 on the femora underneath. The palps (Fig. 2a) are yellow, without annuli; the palpal digit 
 rather pointed, and the joints comparatively short. The male Z. x-notata is easily distin- 
 guished from the male Z. atrica by the brevity of the palps, and by the absence of the 
 row of ten long vertical 'hairs on the external side of the front metatarsi. Neither the 
 palps nor the feet are so distinctly tinged with rufous-brown color; the hairs on radial 
 joints of palps are less thick, and are not of equal length ; some are bent downward. In 
 Z. atrica all the hairs are vertical and equally long, and the joint itself is very long (8a), 
 four times longer than wide. 
 
 Distribution : New England, New York, California. The species has not been reported 
 in the interior States, and may have been introduced to the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts by 
 commercial intercommunication or by emigration. It is widely distributed throughout the 
 continent of Europe, where I have collected it as far north as the Highlands of Scotland. 
 It is one of the oldest and best known of the Orbwoaving species. 
 
238 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 No. 90. Zilla atrica C. Koch. Plate XVIII, Figs. 7, 8. 
 
 1802. Aranea calophylla, Walckenaer . Faunc Par., ii., p. 200. (In part.) 
 
 1805. Epeira calophylla, Walckenabr . Tabl. d. Aran., p. 62. (In part.) 
 
 1834. Zygia calophylla, Kocn, C. . . . Herr.-Schaeff, Deutschl. Ins., 123, 17. (In part.) 
 
 1844. Eucharia alrica, Koch, C Die Arachn., xii., p. 103, pi. 419, Figs. 1030, 1031. 
 
 1851. Epeira alrica, Westrino .... Forteckning, etc., p. 35 
 
 1856. Zilla alrica, Thorell Recensio Critica, p. 107. 
 
 1861. Zilla atrica, Westrinq Aranea; Svecicse, p. 69. 
 
 1864. Epeira calophylla, Blackwall . . Sp. G. B. & I., ii., p. 338, xxv., 245. 
 
 1866. Zyaia atrica, Menge Preuss. Spinn., i., p. 78, pi. 12, tab. 20. 
 
 1867. Zygiti calophylla, OnLERT .... Aran. d. Prov. Preuss., p. 30. 
 
 1889. Zilla atrica, McCook Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 1889. Zilla atrica, Marx Catalogue, p. 550. 
 
 Female: Total length, 8 mm.; abdomen, 5.5 mm. long, 3.5 mm. wide across the base; 
 cephalothorax, 4 mm. long, 2.5 mm. wide; the face, 1.5 mm. The general colors of the fore 
 part are yellowish brown, and of the abdomen yellow, white, and blackish. 
 
 Cephalothorax: A long oval; black on the summit; the sides high; fosse a longitu- 
 dinal slit; corselet grooves not distinct; cephalic suture distinct; color brownish yellow, 
 lighter on top, with a patch blackish at the caput base, and a dark band passing thence to 
 the eye space; slightly pubescent, especially around the caput base; skin glossy along lower 
 margin of corselet ; a row of bristles curved along the front. Sternum longer than wide, 
 shield shaped; glossy at the margin, with a broad yellow median band; sternal cones dis- 
 tinct, indented on the edges, raised in the centre. Labium triangular; maxillse as broad as 
 long ; subtriangular at tip ; light brown, shading to yellow at tip. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad slightly wider behind than in front, and the side somewhat longer. 
 Eyes about equal in size. MF separated by about one diameter; MR by about 1.5 diameter. 
 Side eyes on tubercles; contingent; about equal in size, and not greatly different in size 
 from MR. SR removed from MR by a space but little greater than the distance between 
 MR. The space between SR and MR at least twice the distance between the latter. The 
 front eye row recurved; the rear row longer, and procurved. The clypeus is about the 
 height of one diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout, particularly the femora; yellow, with dark brown annuli at tips 
 of joints, and median annuli on femora and tibia, especially underneath ; spines short, 
 black, few in number ; the joints not heavily but sufficiently clothed with yellow hair and 
 bristles. Mandibles uniform brown, slightly pubescent, extending almost directly from the 
 face, and sharply bent downward ; conical ; quite thick at the apex ; parallel. 
 
 Abdomen: Oval, but slightly diminishing toward the apex, where it is nearly as thick 
 as at the base. The folium is a broad, oval figure, with undulating margins of black, 
 mottled with yellow, there being about five prominent scallops thereto; it narrows to the 
 apex ; the central part is yellow, with branching longitudinal lines from the median point 
 backward. The dorsum is reticulated, the sides well covered with hairs, the whole having 
 a slightly glistening appearance in life. The venter has an irregular rectangular patch of 
 brownish yellow, well covered with yellowish hairs, and a margin reticulated on either side. 
 The epigynum (Fig. 7a) is dark brown, glossy in color, lacking the prominent scapus char- 
 acteristic of most species of Epeira. The figure on the plate is not a very good representa- 
 tion thereof. 
 
 Tns Male: Figs. 8, 8a. Is smaller than the female, being 6 mm. long, and resembles 
 it in general color and markings, although the legs are less decidedly annulated. These 
 members are long, provided with comparatively few spines, with no special clasping spines 
 upon tibia-II; color uniform yellowish brown. The palps (Fig. 8a) are long and strong, and 
 thus are an admirable substitute for the tibial clasping spurs. 
 
 Zilla atrica is distinguished from Z. x-notata, which it strongly resembles, (1) by the 
 reddish brown color of the mandibles; (2) it does not have, in the living species, the 
 shining black, and, after death, the blackish, color of the latter; (3) the black bases of the 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 239 
 
 spines and hairs on the feet are less strongly expressed, and (4) the fuscous annuli on the 
 femora and the apices of joints are less deeply colored, so that the feet are rather a pale 
 testaceous ; the male is easily distinguished by the remarkable length of the palps. From 
 Z. ii ii nidi 11: , Z. atrica differs by its greater size ; the palps of the two males are differently 
 constructed, and there is also a marked difference in the sexual organs of the females. 
 
 Distribution: The only specimens of this species in my collection are from Wood's 
 Holl and Annisquam, Massachusetts. Dr. Marx reports it as received from California. It is 
 a well distributed European species, and has probably been imported into the United States. 
 
 No. 9 1 . Zilla montana C. Koch. Plate XVIII,' Figs. 3, 4. 
 
 1832. Epcira calophylla, Sundevall . . Svenska Spindlarnes Beskrifning, p. 253. (Va- 
 riety b.) 
 
 1834. Zilla montana, Koch, C Herr-Schaeff. Deutschl. Ins., 125, 19. 
 
 1839. Zilla montana, Koch, C Die Arach., vi., p. 140, Figs. 536, 537. 
 
 1851. Epeira montana, Westhing . . . Forteckn., etc., p. 35. 
 
 1856. Zilla x-notata, Thorbll Recensio Critica, p. 26. 
 
 1858. Zilla montana, Thoreli Om Clercks Origin. Spindelsn., p. 148. 
 
 1861. Zilla montana, Westrinq .... Araneaj Svecicse, p. 75. 
 
 1867. Zilla calophylla, Menge Preuss. Spinn., i., p. 76, pi. 12, tab. 19. 
 
 1870. Zilla Slroemii, Thorbll On European Spiders, p. 235. 
 
 1884. Zilla montana, Emerton N. E. Ep., p. 323, pis. 34, 37. 
 
 1889. Zilla montana, McCook Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 1889. Zilla montana, Marx Catalogue Described Aranere. 
 
 Female: Total length, 6.5 mm.; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. It resembles 
 Z. x-notata and Z. atrica, but the legs are more strongly annulated, the median annuli 
 being distinctly dark brown upon yellow. 
 
 Cephalotiiorax : Strongly marked with brown; corselet grooves and cephalic suture 
 distinct; the head not depressed; the eyes as in Z. x-notata; MF distinctly larger than MR. 
 The clypeus has a height of at least one diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: Abundantly armed with long, yellowish bristles, which stand in rows on the 
 femora, both above and beneath ; the spines are not numerous. The venter has an elon- 
 gated blackish band, flanked on either side by a triangular belt of yellow, which extends 
 to the spinnerets. The epigynum is without a scapus, dark brown or blackish, corneous, and 
 is simply an opening underneath the atriolum. 
 
 Abdomen: A short oval; color shining cretaceous or yellowish, with a folium whose 
 margins are marked black within a wide median figure of shining cretaceous. The folium 
 is broad at the base and narrowest towards the apex and the front. 
 
 Male: The male does not differ greatly from the female in size; is lighter in color; 
 the legs not so distinctly annulated. The palp is much shorter than that of Z. x-notata. 
 The digital bulb (4a) is prominent, terminated by a strong hook, with a long black fang; 
 the cubital joint short, subtriangular ; the humeral joint but little longer than the cubital ; 
 the radial joint the longest of all. The abdomen is marked as in the female, the color 
 shining cretaceous, and the folium outlined in black ; the sides reticulated, cretaceous next 
 the folium, and beyond that a belt of black. The legs are well provided with long yel- 
 lowish spines, with dark bases, which, however, are almost wanting on the femora. Tibia-II 
 has no special clasping organs. 
 
 Distribution : This is also a European species, and is widely distributed from Sweden 
 southward. In this country it has been taken in New York and New England. 
 
 Genus ABBOTIA, new. 
 
 With some hesitation I have separated Epeira gibberosa of Hentz and E. maculate of 
 Keyserling from Epeira, and established for them a new genus, in recognition of Mr. John 
 Abbot, the earliest worker in the field of American Araneology. The whole general appear- 
 ance of these spiders is different from that of the typical Epeira. In their more dainty 
 
240 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 and delicate formation and colors, the shape of the cephalothorax and abdomen, and, in 
 part, the structure and armature of the legs, they at once strike the eye as quite different. 
 A special difference is noted in the structure of the cephalothorax, which in Epeira is 
 rather low, of almost equal thickness throughout, rising gradually from the margin of the 
 corselet to the fosse. In Abbotia, on the contrary, the corselet, as viewed from the side, is 
 a truncated cone in shape (Plate XX., Fig. 17), rising rather abruptly from the margin to 
 the crest, which is comparatively high, and cleft into two parts by the longitudinal fosse. 
 The head, again, is more depressed than in the typical Epeira, sloping forward from the 
 fosse, with an incline somewhat less than that of the base, which slopes downward rather 
 abruptly. The legs are relatively not so short and stout as in Epeira (except at the 
 femora, which are strong), are less heavily clothed with pubescence; the spines compara- 
 tively few, and longer and thinner than in typical Epeira. The face is somewhat narrower 
 than that of the typical Epeira, but not widely different. The eyes resemble those of 
 Epeira, but the intervening space between the sidefront and the rnidfront eyes is relatively 
 not quite so great, in the typical Epeira being from 2 to 2.5 times that of the intervening 
 space of the rnidfront eyes, while in Abbotia the space is not greater than 1.5 that interval. 
 The abdomen (Figs. 7, 7a), instead of having the subtriangular, subglobose, or oval form 
 of Epeira, is a decided ovate, contracted at the base and widening toward the apex, where 
 it is again somewhat narrowed. The known species make horizontal, orbicular webs, but 
 occupy an adjacent shelter of retitelarian lines, underneath which they hang, back down- 
 ward, clasping a trapline that unites the shelter to the orb. 
 
 No. 92. Abbotia gibberosa (Hentz). Plate XX, Figs. 7, 8; PI. XXIV, Figs. 4, 4a, 4b. 
 
 1847. Epeira gibberosa, Hentz .... J. B. S., v., p. 457 ; Sp. U. S., 119, xiii., 20. 
 
 1884. Epeira gibberosa, Emeuton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 317, xxxiv., 17. 
 
 1889. Epeira gibberosa, McCook .... Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork, Vol. I. 
 
 1889. Epeira gibberosa, Marx Catalogue, p. 545. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4 mm.; cephalothorax, 1.75 mm. long, 1 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 3.3 mm. long, 2 mm. wide. 
 
 CEPiiALOTnoRAx : High, peaked; the centre cleft with a longitudinal fosse; sloping 
 sharply downward to the roundly truncated base, which is slightly indented, sloping also 
 forward at a less angle to the face; the cephalothorax, from the side, presents the view of 
 a truncated cone; corselet grooves distinct; cephalic suture well marked; color green or 
 greenish yellow (which in alcohol becomes yellow), with a brownish crest; caput depressed 
 below the summit of corselet, and slopes well to the eye space; color rather lighter than 
 the corselet, covered with yellowish pubescence, thicker at the face, where the head is 
 narrowed. The sternum is broadly shield shaped, rather squarely truncate at the base, not 
 sharply pointed at the apex, almost as wide as long; with sternal cones, especially in front 
 of coxa-I ; rather elevated and rounded at the centre ; sparsely covered with brownish 
 bristles ; color in alcohol yellow ; the labium is rather small, subtriangular, scarcely half as 
 long as the maxillae, which are obtusely triangular at the tips, somewhat longer than wide, 
 colored as the sternum and labium. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a low eminence, projecting in front, thus giving the face a 
 somewhat compressed appearance; the quad is longer than wide, the front scarcely, or but 
 little, wider than the rear; the eyes on black bases, and not greatly differing in size; MF 
 and MR both separated by about one diameter; side eyes without decided tubercles, but on 
 black bases; barely contingent; about equal in size, smaller than the middle eyes; the 
 space between SF and MF about one and a half to two times the intervening space of MF; 
 the space between SR and MR is somewhat greater than the above; clypcus height about 
 one diameter MF; front eye row decidedly recurved, rear row procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; stout at the femora, and narrowing toward the feet; provided with a 
 few short and a number of long, acute, brownish spines, set in double rotfs upon femora 
 and tibia, and with short pubescence; a dark longitudinal band of color extends beneath 
 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 241 
 
 femora-I, II the entire length, along which are placed a number of long, aculeate, spine- 
 like bristles; the palps are colored and armed as the legs, but a lighter hue, and the spines 
 curved ; the mandibles are conical, colored as the face, receding at the tips. 
 
 Abdomen : Ovate, rounded at the base, which overhangs the corselet, somewhat 
 narrowing at the spinnerets, which are distal ; the dorsum highly arched ; color green, 
 without folium, but the apical half of dorsum and sides marked strongly by blackish, 
 longitudinal stripes, passing downward to the spinnerets and along the sides of the venter; 
 color green, the surface beautifully reticulated, and covered with short, yellowish pubes- 
 cence; the venter yellowish green, surrounded by a broken band of yellowish green or white, 
 which encompasses the spinnerets, with dark anterior corners; the spinnerets brown; the 
 epigynuin has a wide subtriangular atriolum, with a short scapus (but rather longer than 
 shown in Fig. 7b), rounded at the tip. 
 
 Male: Fig. 8. Somewhat smaller than the female, which it resembles closely in 
 general form and color. The legs are without any special clasping armature, but the few- 
 spines are long and strong. Femora-I, II have the same black longitudinal stripes as the 
 female on the under side; a few aculeate bristles are placed underneath femora-IV, and at 
 least one underneath femora-III; coxaj-I have spurs on the articulation with the trochanter. 
 The sternum is decidedly cordate, and the labium even feebler, relatively, than in the 
 female. The digital joint of the palp is large, subglobose; the embolus and associated parts 
 dark brown, glossy, corneous. (Fig. 10a.) 
 
 Distribution : This beautiful spider is common in the woods surrounding Philadelphia, 
 and is widely distributed throughout the United States, my collections ranging from New- 
 England southward to the Carolinas (Gentry) and to Florida, and as far to the northwest 
 as Wisconsin (Professor Peckham). 
 
 No. 93. Abbotia maculata (Keysebling). Plate XX, Figs. 9, 10. 
 
 18G5. Epeira maculata, Kevseri.ino . . Verb. Zool. Bot. Gesellsch. Wien., p. 827. 
 1884. Epeira gibbcrosa, Emerton . . . N. E. Ep., p. 317. 
 1889. Epeira maculata, Marx Catalogue, p. 546. 
 
 A. maculata in its general characteristics so closely resembles A. gibberosa that detailed 
 description would be mere repetition. The species might, indeed, with much propriety be 
 classified as a variety of the latter. The differences, however, are striking, although chiefly 
 in color markings. The abdomen of A. maoilata is, relatively, rather longer and a more 
 even oval than A. gibberosa, whieSi is som'PPat wider and thicker at the apex; the latter 
 is marked by several distinct, blackish stripes, drawn from the dorsum along the sides 
 downward and backward. (Fig. 7a.) In A. maculata these stripes are lacking, and instead 
 thereof, on the median apical part of the dorsum, are six black circular spots, arranged 
 symmetrically three on each side. Again, A. maculata is distinguished by lacking the 
 distinct blackish longitudinal stripe beneath the femora of legs-I, II of A. gibberosa. 
 
 Distribution: The species has substantially the same geographical distribution as A. 
 gibberosa along the entire Atlantic Coast, and inward perhaps to the Mississippi River, at 
 least. The habits of the two congeners are also the same. 
 
 Genus ARGYROEPEIRA, Emerton, 1884. 
 
 The genus Argyroepeira includes a number of spiders intermediate between the typical 
 Meta and Tctragnatha. The legs are long and slender; their order of length 1, 2, 4, 3- 
 the first two much the longest, ami not greatly different in length. The maxillae are 
 longer than those of Meta, but less in length than those of Tetragnatha; broad at the 
 extremities, and divergent. The sternum is subtriangular. The falces are powerful, but 
 not developed to the remarkable extent usual in Tetragnatha, The abdomen is sub- 
 cyliiHlrical, stouter, and shorter than in Tetragnatha; it is often rather humped before, and 
 
242 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 its hinder extremity is sometimes prolonged in a quasicaudal.form. All the known species 
 are more or less ornamented with patches, streaks, stripes, lines, or sprinklings of bnlliant 
 silver sometimes varied with black and reddish on a whitish or yellowish, or often, in life, 
 a greenish colored ground ; occasionally the abdomen is short, stout, or subglobular. The 
 true Meta has the legs usually stronger and more freely clothed with spines, and the 
 abdomen in form more subtriangular than in Argyroepeira, approaching more nearly the 
 larger Linyphioid spiders. The palps of the male in Argyroepeira nearly approach in 
 structure those of Tetragnatha, as well as those of Pachygnatha. > 
 
 ro. 94. Argyroepeira venusta (Walckenaer). Plate XX, Figs. 1-6. 
 
 1837. Epeira venusta, Walckenaer . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 90; Abbot, G. S., No. 11 3. 2 
 1847. Epeira hortorum, Hentz .... J. B. S., v., p. 477 ; Sp. U. S., p. 18, xin., 19. 
 1863. Tetragnatha quinque-lineala, Key- 
 
 serling Beschr. n. Orbitel., p. 145, vii., 3-6. 
 
 1881. Meta argyra, Keyserling .... Neue Spinn. aus Amer., ii., 19. 
 1884. Argyroepeira hortorum, Emerton . N. E. Ep., p. 332. 
 
 1889. Argyroepeira hortorum, McCook . Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 1889. Argyroepeira hortorum, Marx . . Catalogue, p. 550. 
 Female: Total length, 7 mm.; cephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 2 mm. wide; abdomen 
 5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax: A long oval, truncated behind, flat upon the dorsum; median fosse a 
 deep circular pit; cephalic suture strongly marked; corselet grooves prominent; head slightly 
 depressed ; color yellow ; caput smooth and rounded, but little pubescent. Along the margin 
 of the corselet on either side in the adult is a row of short, stout bristles, sloping forward 
 like cogs in a wheel. The corselet is of almost equal thickness throughout. The sternum is 
 cordate or subtriangular, slightly longer than wide, with decided sternal cones; yellow, with 
 long, blackish, bristlelike hairs. The labium has parallel sides, and an obtusely triangular 
 tip; is dark brown, about half the length of the maxilla;, which are much longer than 
 wide, the greatest width being at the tip, where it is rounded. (See Fig. la.) 
 
 Eyes: The ocular quad has only the midfront eyes upon a prominence; is wider 
 behind than in front; sides longer than rear. MF are separated by about one diameter, 
 MR, which about equal MF in size, by a diameter and a half. The side eyes are pro- 
 pinquate, SR smaller than SF, and placed wgL behind them. MF are separated from SF 
 by 1.3 their area, SR from MR by about annual spacf. The front row is recurved, the 
 rear row slightly procurved. The clypeus has the width of about one diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: Rather long, sufficiently stout, particularly at the femora, with longitudinal rows 
 of short, fine hairs. A curious tuft of long, curved hairs marks the inside of the fourth 
 leg toward the front. (Fig. lc.) These are arranged in double rows of about ten to twelve 
 on each side. There are but few spines, and these long and feeble. The palps are marked 
 as the legs; mandibles long, strong, conical, arched at the base, separated at tips. 
 
 Abdomen: Cylindrical, somewhat thicker at the base, and but little wider; apical wall 
 high, spinnerets placed immediately beneath ; colors green, with beautiful silvery reticula- 
 tions, and black longitudinal lines on the dorsal field; skin without pubescence. The 
 epigynum is an open atriolum, without a scapus. 
 
 Male: Fig 4, side view. In general color and markings resembles the female, is 
 smaller, and not so stout; body length, 4 mm.; the abdomen, which slightly overhangs the 
 cephalothorax, 2.2 to 3 mm., the cephalothorax 2 mm. long. The legs are much longer than 
 with the female, and, relatively, not so stout; order, 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows: 16, 13, 10, 8 mm.; 
 tibia-II has no clasping spines or other special developments, and the double row of hairs 
 
 1 I have adopted substantially Cambridge's description of this genus, Emerton having made none. 
 • No. 475 of the Abbot M8S. may also refer to this species, which the drawing closely resembles. It 
 is, however, somewhat uncertain ; but I have no doubt at all as to No. 113. 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 243 
 
 upon the inside of femora-III, female, appears to be wanting. The palpus (Fig. 4a) has the 
 radial joint at least three times longer than the cubital, and nearly twice as long as the 
 digital. 
 
 Distribution : This beautiful species is one of the most abundant in the neighborhood 
 of Philadelphia, and is widely distributed throughout the United States. My collections 
 show that it inhabits the Atlantic Coast throughout, and the Mississippi Valley. I have 
 collected it as far to the southwest as Texas. I have no collections from the Pacific Coast, 
 but it will probably be found thereon. If we accept the examples placed in the synonyma 
 as quite identical with A. venusta, the species is distributed throughout Central America 
 and the northern States of South America. 
 
 No. 95. Argyroepeira argyra (Walckenaer). Plate XXIV, Figs. 2, 3. 
 
 1842. Tetragnafha argyra, Walckbnaer, Ins. Apt., ii., p. 219, pi. 19, Fig. 1. 
 
 1873. Linyphia ornata, Taczanowski . Horse Soc. Ent. Ross., p. 11. 
 
 1880. Meta argyra, Keyserling .... Neue Spinnen a. Amer., i., p. 543. 
 
 1893. Argyroepeira argyra, Keyserling, Sinnen Amerikas, p. 343, xviii., 253. 
 
 Female : Total length, 7.5 to 8 mm. ; cephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 2.5 mm. wide ; abdo- 
 men, 6 mm. long, 3 mm. wide. The specimens in my possession are much changed by 
 alcohol, but the living colors appear to be greenish yellow, brown, and metallic white, 
 resembling those of A. venusta. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Oval, somewhat flattened; a deep triangular fosse; corselet grooves 
 not distinct ; cephalic suture pronounced ; caput elevated, lowly arched ; yellowish brown 
 (in alcohol), scarcely pubescent. Sternum cordate (Fig. 2a), as wide as long; cones distinct; 
 raised in the middle, especially opposite the labium; brown, covered with long, black, 
 curved bristles. Labium compressed at the shank, widened at the subtriangular tip; half as 
 long (or less) as the maxilla;, which are compressed below, and widened at the tip, and 
 decidedly longer than wide. 
 
 Eyes: Fig. 26. Ocular quad longer than wide, wider behind, eyes about equal; MF 
 separated about pne diameter, MR 1.5. MF separated from SF about 1.5 the alignment of 
 MF; SF propinquate, about equal in size, but smaller than those of the quad, and on slight 
 tubercles; clypeus nearly the alignment of MF high; front row recurved, rear row very 
 slightly procurved. 
 
 Legs : Order, 1, 2, 4, 3, as follows : 23.1, 17.9, 14.5, 8.9 mm. ; they are not stout, gradu- 
 ally diminish to the tarsus, the joints long, except the patellae, which are relatively short; 
 they have few spines, but are freely clothed with long bristles, almost plumose beneath; 
 color in alcohol yellowish, with slight tinge of green ; in life the latter color probably pre- 
 dominates. 
 
 Abdomen : Cylindrical, thicker at the base, which overhangs the cephalothorax. The 
 dorsal folium is margined by a broad band of silver, which covers the base and extends in 
 wedge shaped bands along the sides ; indeed, the ground color might be described as silver, 
 and the pattern (see Fig. 2) said to be outlined by interrupted longitudinal fillets of 
 brown. The venter is blackish brown, with silvery marginal bands; the epigynum (2c) is 
 large, conical, projecting forward, thickly clothed with hair. 
 
 Male: Fig. 3. In general form and colors closely resembles the female, which it 
 almost equals in length, the largest specimens being 7 mm. long. The digital bulb (3a, 3b) 
 is large, globose, longer than the radial and cubital joints together, the latter being about 
 one-half longer than the former. 
 
 Distribution: Southern California, from which numerous specimens have been obtained 
 from Dr. Blaisdell. Outside the United States the species inhabits Mexico, the Antilles, 
 Central America, and probably South America, in the northern provinces. It is one of the 
 most beautiful of our indigenous spider fauna. I have no account of its spinning and 
 cocooning habits, but these will probably be found to resemble closely those of its con- 
 gener A. venusta, which 1 have fully described. 
 
244 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Genus HENTZIA, new. 
 
 I have felt it necessary to establish a new genus to receive the following interesting 
 species, whose spinningwork, as described in a previous volume, sets it apart as widely 
 different in its industry from all other spiders. It is impossible to follow Dr. Marx in 
 relegating it to Argiope, as the character of the eyes is entirely different, those of Argiope 
 being procurved in both rows, the front row slightly and the rear row very much. On the 
 contrary, the eyes of this species are so arranged as to form an oval figure, the front row 
 being decidedly recurved, the rear row procurved. The midfront eyes are separated from 
 the sidefront by a space almost equaling, but a little less than, the space which divides the 
 latter. The cephalothorax is of medium height, the caput not specially depressed. 
 The Sternum is somewhat, but not decidedly, longer than wide. The labium is short, 
 and the maxillae wide, almost as wide as long. The legs are long, rather thin, sparsely 
 covered with pubescence, and the spines, instead of being stout and short, are long and 
 thin. The abdomen is cylindrical, decidedly longer than wide. In its general appearance 
 the species is more closely allied to certain Theridioids than to the typical Epeira, and 
 approaches Argyroepeira, from which, however, it differs, among other points, by the fact 
 that in the latter genus the space between the midfront and sidefront eyes is more than 
 twice as great as the interval between the midfront eyes, in this respect resembling Epeira. 
 In Hentzia basilica the ocular quad is much longer than wide; the width in front only 
 slightly, if any, greater than the rear width ; in a typical Epeira the front width is usually 
 decidedly greater than the rear, and the quad is not so manifestly longer than wide. The 
 space between MF and SF in Hentzia is less than the intervening space of MF; in Epeira, 
 on the contrary, that space is 1.5 to 2.5 times greater, usually nearer the latter than the 
 former. The difference in this respect is enormous. In Hentzia basilica the space between 
 SR and MR is but little, if any, greater than that between MR; in the typical Epeira, on 
 the contrary, the intervening space between SR and MR is 3.5 to 4 times that of MR. The 
 difference in this respect is even greater than in the former. The shape of the abdomen, 
 again, separates the two genera, the typical Epeira being triangular ovate ; this, on the 
 contrary, being cylindrical, inclined to rectangular, and decidedly longer than wide, with 
 the abdomen formed into a sort of caudal projection. The spinous armature of the legs 
 also shows a decided difference, Hentzia having rather scant pubescence, and spines not 
 numerous, long and slender, instead of being abundant, stout, and rather short, as in 
 Epeira. The terminal joints of the legs also differ, Epeira being marked by a moderately 
 long metatarsus, not disproportionate to the other joints, whereas Hentzia has a metatarsus 
 at least one-third longer than the tibia, and the tarsus is much longer than the patella. In 
 Hentzia basilica the three legs are almost nearly equal in length, the first and second pairs 
 scarcely differing, and the fourth but a fraction of a millimeter shorter. The snare is a 
 horizontal orbicular web, raised at the centre into an umbrella shape, like that of certain 
 species of Linyphia. 
 
 No. 96. Hentzia basilica McCook. Plate XIV, Fig. 2 ; PI. XXIII, Fig. 8. 
 
 1878. Epeira basilica, McCook .... Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 124. 
 1889. Epeira basilica, McCook .... Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vol. I. 
 1889. Argiope basilica, Marx Catalogue, p. 541. 
 
 Female: Total length, 0.5 mm.; cephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 2 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 5.5 mm. long, 2 mm. wide. 
 
 Cbph AXOTHORAI : Oval, truncated at the base; fosse a low circular pit; corselet medium 
 height, somewhat flattened on top; color yellow or olive, with a blackish brown ring on 
 the margins of the corselet, and a similarly colored band passing the entire length of the 
 corselet and caput on the median line; pubescent, especially on the margins; the caput not 
 depressed, and scarcely elevated above the summit of the corselet; the sternum cordate, 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 245 
 
 bluntly pointed at the apex, longer than wide, blackish brown margins, with a yellow 
 median band, with short yellowish hairs, particularly along the margins ; sternal cones 
 prominent; the labium wide at the base, but rather low, subtriangular; the maxilla; gibbous, 
 somewhat, but little longer than wide. 
 
 Evks : Ocular quad somewhat wider in front than behind, and decidedly longer than 
 wide; the eyes differ little in size, are upon black bases; MF separated by about 1.5 
 diameter, MR by about one diameter; the side eyes contiguous, SR placed well behind, 
 though somewhat to the side of, SF ; equal in size; smaller than the middle group, and, 
 like them, upon black bases. The space between SF and MF is slightly less than the space 
 between MF ; the distance between MR and SR is slightly greater than the intervening 
 space of MR; the clypcus has the height of about 1.5 diameter MF; the front row is 
 recurved, the rear row procurved ; and the eyes are so arranged that they form a nearly 
 continuous oval. 
 
 Legs : 1=2, 4, 3, the fourth pair nearly as long as first and second ; long, strong, with- 
 out being stout ; yellow or olive, with slight touches of darker color at the extreme apical 
 points of the joints; provided with long, yellowish brown, thin spines. 1 
 
 Abdomen : Cylindrical, much longer than wide, thickest at the base, which is rounded 
 and somewhat overhangs the cephalothorax, and has slight conical shoulder humps ; dorsum 
 slightly arched ; the apex rounded and projected at the dorsum somewhat beyond the base 
 of the apical wall, thus overhanging the spinnerets, which project from the distal part back- 
 ward; the color is yellow, with a shade of olive, the folium a wide band, with compressed 
 edges, passing the entire length, a silvery white line marking the margins, which are bor- 
 dered with a narrow ribbon of rosy hue; the sides are marked with longitudinal stripes of 
 yellow and blackish brown; the venter has a broad, rectangular belt of black, with yellowish 
 brown borders, passing around the yellowish brown spinnerets ; the epigynum is without a 
 scapus, the atriolum showing as a horseshoe shaped arch, widely opening downward, with 
 convolutions within on either side marking the portulre. 
 
 Distribution: Texas; District of Columbia; probably the Southern States. A single 
 female specimen was found by me in Texas, distinguished by the peculiar and beautiful 
 web, fully described in Vol. I. The correctness of my observation was long questioned, 
 until Dr. Marx discovered specimens in the Government grounds in Washington, and was 
 fortunate enough to observe the method of spinning the web and the character of the 
 cocoon. 
 
 Genus META, C. Koch, 1836. 
 
 The species of Meta are characterized by an oval cephalothorax, whose corselet is 
 rounded at the sides, truncate at the base, high, with deeply indented summit, distinct 
 corselet grooves and cephalic suture; the caput is arched and elevated above the corselet, 
 and is wide at the face. The sternum is somewhat longer than wide. The labium, is 
 long, rectangular at the base, rounded at the tip, and less than half the height of the 
 maxillae, which are decidedly longer than wide, and present a marked characteristic. 
 The eyes are arranged in three groups, but the side eyes are more nearly approximated 
 to the middle group than in Epeira, the space between the sidefront and midfront not 
 exceeding the area of the latter. The intervening space between the sidereal and midrear 
 eyes is somewhat greater. The front row of eyes is recurved, the rear row aligned, or 
 nearly so, and the clypeus is of good height. The legs are long, the metatarsus propor- 
 tionately much longer than the tarsus ; the pubescence is abundant, long, thin, aculeate 
 bristles covering the surface, together with long, thin spines. The abdomen is a short, 
 even ovate, the dorsum arched, the base and apex rounded, the latter slightly over- 
 hanging the distal spinnerets. The male resembles the female in form, color, and size. 
 The palpal joints, however, are not proportionately as long as the legs, but, on the con- 
 trary, are relatively rather short. 
 
 1 Fig. 2, Plate XIV., is defective in the shape of the legs. 
 
246 AMERICAN SriDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 No. 97. Meta Menardi (Latreille). Plate XXII, Figs. 4, 5. 
 
 1804. Aranea Menardi, Latreille . . . Nat. Hist. Crust., vii., p. 266. 
 
 1804. Aranea novem-macidata, Panzer . Syst. Nom., p. 244. 
 
 1805. Epeira fusca, AValckenaer . . . Tabl. d. Aran., p. 63. 
 
 1806. Epeira Menardi, Latreille . . . Gen. Crust, et Ins., i., 108. 
 
 1836. Mela fiuea, Koch, C In Herr.-Schaeff. Deutachl. Ins, cxxxiv, 12, 13. 
 
 1837. Epeira fusca, Walckknakr . . . Ins. Apt., ii, p. 84. 
 
 1841. Meta fusca, Koch Die Arach., viii, p. 118, tab. 285, Figs. 685-687. 
 
 1856. Meta Menardi, Thorell Recensio Critica, p. 98. 
 
 1861. Meta Menardi, Westring .... Aranese Svecicse, p. 77. 
 
 1864. Epeira fusca, Blacicwall .... Spid. G. B. & I, ii, 349, pi. xxvi, 252. 
 
 1870. Meta Menardi, Thorell European Synonyms, p. 38. 
 
 1884. Meta Menardi, Emerton N. E. Ep, p. 328, pi. xxxiv, 18. 
 
 1889. Meta Menardi, McCook Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork, Vol. I. 
 
 1889. Meta Menardi, Marx Catalogue, p. 541. 
 
 Female: Total length, 8 mm.; cephalothorax, 3.5 mm. long, 2.75 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 6 mm. long, 4 mm. wide. 
 
 Cemialothorax : A long oval, squarely truncate at the base ; the fosse a deep semi- 
 lunar indentation, the cavity directed backward ; corselet grooves distinct ; cephalic suture 
 well marked; caput slightly arched, not lower than the corselet, slightly depressed at the 
 face, which is but little narrower than the base ; the color yellow, flecked with brown. 
 The sternum cordate, somewhat longer than wide, yellowish brown in color ; sternal cones 
 especially marked in middle of the apical part, and middle of the base opposite the lip; 
 covered with yellowish, long bristles ; the labium half the length of the maxillae, rounded 
 at the tips and thickened at the base ; the maxilla; decidedly longer than wide, somewhat 
 narrowed at the shank, gibbous at the apex, color yellowish brown. 
 
 Eyes: The entire eye space is black, the quad longer than wide, wider in the rear 
 than in front ; MF smaller than MR, separated by about 1.3 diameter, MR by one diameter ; 
 the side eyes not upon tubercles; MF the larger, separated by about a radius of MR; the 
 space between MF and MR is about equal to, or slightly greater than, the space between 
 MF; the distance between MR and SR is somewhat, and but little, greater; clypeus width 
 about 1.5 diameter MF; the front eye row recurved, the longer rear row procurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; very long, and sufficiently stout, especially at the femora; yellow, 
 with brown median annuli ; clothed freely with yellowish hair and bristles, and brown, 
 acute spines ; the palps are colored as the legs, but a lighter shade ; mandibles long, conical, 
 somewhat divergent at the tips, color yellow, merging into orange or brown. 
 
 Abdomen : An evenly rounded oval, thickest across the shoulders, rounded at the base, 
 narrowing somewhat at the apex to the distal spinnerets ; the dorsal folium is a herring 
 bone pattern, yellow along the median, bordered by blackish brown interrupted bands on 
 either side ; streaks of yellow and black alternate upon the sides to the venter, which is 
 black or blackish brown, bordered by yellow, with two yellow spots in the centre; the 
 spinnerets are stout, short, orange yellow ; the epigynum (Figs. 4c, 4d) has no scapus, but 
 shows simply a semicircular flap, yellow, and covered with hair, that overhangs the genital 
 cleft. 
 
 Male: Fig. 3. Closely resembles the female in size, color, and markings. The legs 
 are without any special clasping apparatus. For a view of the palpal digit see Fig. 5a. 
 
 Distribution : I captured a number of this species in Sinking Spring Cave, Blair 
 County, Pennsylvania, and in the neighborhood. It has been taken in Massachusetts, 
 Kentucky, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. It is a European species, and may have 
 been introduced by migration and commercial intercommunication, but is more probably 
 indigenous. It dwells in caves, or in dark, moist places, and has in America precisely the 
 same habits as the European representative. Blackwall speaks of the species in Great 
 Britain as also inhabiting cellars and overhanging banks. 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 247 
 
 Genus LARINIA, Simon, 1874. 
 
 In Larinia 1 the cephalothorax is oval, with decided corselet grooves and longitu- 
 dinal fosse. The midrear eyes are closely approximated, almost contingent; the interval 
 which separates them from the siderear eyes is much greater than that which divides the 
 midfront pair. The midfront eyes form a straight, or almost straight, row, arranged at 
 almost equal distances from one another ; the distance between the midfront and sidefront 
 being slightly the greater. The mandibles are perpendicular ; the sternum is longer than 
 wide ; the labium and maxilla; are as in Epeira. The abdomen is much longer than 
 wide, oval in shape, attenuated at the two extremities, marked by longitudinal bands. The 
 palps are as in Epeira. The legs in order of length are I, 2, 4, 3 ; more or less robust; 
 provided with four pairs of spines on the femora, tibiie, and metatarsi ; the tibiae of the 
 iirst and second pairs are equally slender ; the thighs are without hairs. The superior 
 tarsal claws have nine or ten denticulations, of which the first are much longer than the 
 others, which are about equal. The skin is almost always smooth, although covered with 
 colored hairs and pubescence, as in Epeira. 
 
 No. 98. Larinia borealis Banks. Plate XXII, Figs, l, 2. 
 
 1894. iMrinia borealis, Banks Entomological News, p. 8. 
 
 Female: Total length, 7 mm.; cephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 2 mm. wide; width at face, 
 1 mm. ; abdomen, 5 mm. long, 3 mm. wide, less than 1 mm. at base. 
 
 Cephalothokax : A long oval, high and somewhat peaked at the fosse, which is a 
 longitudinal slit ; squarely truncate behind ; the corselet grooves distinct ; cephalic suture 
 pronounced ; the caput slightly depressed and gently arched from fosse to ocular space ; 
 face sufficiently wide, about, or a little more than, one half the greatest width of the 
 cephalothorax ; color dull yellow ; slightly pubescent, except at the face, where there are 
 tufts of strong, whitish, gray bristles. 
 
 Sternum: Cordate, longer than wide, in the proportion of five to four; elevated and 
 arched in the middle ; with sternal cones ; the apex triangular, the anterior and middle 
 part indented, and of about equal width ; color blackish brown, with an irregular median 
 band of yellowish ; scantily provided with bristlelike hairs on the margin. Labium with 
 a short compressed shank ; tip at base wider than high ; subtriangular ; of a light yellow 
 brown color. Maxillse somewhat longer than wide; the shank slightly compressed; the 
 apex rounded and thickened, and obtusely triangular at the tip; a few short, curved, 
 stubby bristles. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad elevated in front, the rear eyes seated upon the base of the eleva- 
 tion ; the quad decidedly wider in front than rear ; MF somewhat larger than MR, which 
 are separated by less than a radius, indeed are almost contingent ; distance between MF 
 and SF about 1.3 the interval of MF, or less than the area thereof. Side eyes on slight 
 tubercles, with blackish bases; barely contingent; subequal, but SF apparently slightly 
 larger ; the space between MR and SR decidedly greater than between MF and SF, and 
 equal to about 1.5 the area of MR; the front eye row slightly recurved, rear row pro- 
 curved, in this respect resembling Epeira ; clypeus height equal to about one diameter MF. 
 
 Lecs: 1, 2, 4, 3. Color uniform yellow; short, rather stout, well provided with hairs 
 and bristles, and rather sparsely with thin, yellowish spines; tibia and metatarsus of leg-I 
 about equal in length ; palps colored as the legs ; mandibles conical, not receding, yellow. 
 
 Abdomen: Ovate, compressed at the base to an obtuse point, which overhangs the 
 cephalothorax; rounded at the apex, where it diminishes in width, but is not compressed 
 to a point, as at the apex ; dorsum evenly arched to the apex, which slightly overhangs 
 the spinnerets; color dull yellow; rather thickly coated with yellowish white hairs; a 
 median band of lighter yellow, and of almost equal width throughout, passes from base to 
 
 1 I give substantially Simon's diagnosis of this genus. 
 
248 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 apex, quite around to the spinnerets ; on either side is an indistinct folium of yellowish 
 brown, the margins of which are slightly indented; the dorsal surface is reticulated. The 
 ventral pattern is a long hand of yellowish brown, with two longitudinal stripes of creta- 
 ceous or yellowish along the middle. The epigynum of the specimen in hand is scarcely 
 matured, but shows an atriolum with a broad base and a slightly projecting scapus, or 
 simple flap. 
 
 Male: In general form resembles the female. The cephalothorax is relatively some- 
 what wider; grouping of the eyes substantially the same. The legs and mouth parts are of 
 like color, although the sternum, in the specimen in hand, is of lighter hue. The legs are 
 relatively longer, stronger, and more decidedly armed with yellowish brown spines than 
 the female ; tibia-II is without special clasping spines. The abdomen differs decidedly in 
 color, being a beautiful lake red, the central band undulated, and with longitudinal stripes 
 of yellow intervening; the general color of the sides is a warm pink, mottled with 
 occasional black dots, and covered densely with yellowish hairs. The sternum in form 
 differs little from that of Hie female ; but the maxilla; are scarcely longer than wide, and 
 the tips are squarely truncated. 
 
 Distribution : Both male and female were received from Mr. Nathan Banks, and col- 
 lected at Olympia, Washington, by Mr. Trevor Kincaid. Mr. Banks has received several 
 specimens from the same gentleman, and has two from Franconia, New Hampshire, collected 
 by Mis. A. Trumbull Slosson. This would indicate a wide distribution across the northern 
 belt of States, or, possibly, ii)troduction by commerce. 
 
 Genus DREXELIA, McCook, 1892. 
 
 In the Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia for 1888 I gave 
 the diagnosis of a new genus of spiders, Drexelia, to receive Hentz's species, Kpeira directa, 
 and Cambridge's Epeira tetragnathoides, which appeared to me to be the same, or a closely 
 related, species. Identical with the latter is a third species, which Dr. George Marx, in his 
 catalogue of "Described North American Aranese," has published as Epeira deludens Key- 
 serling in UUerh, and which had been examined by Count Keyserling. All these specimens 
 appeared to me to be identical, although I had only the description of Cambridge from 
 w r hich to judge, not having seen a typical specimen of his species. Under the circumstances 
 it seemed necessary not only to restore the specific name of Hentz, but to make his species 
 the type of a new genus. 
 
 Drexelia is separated sharply from Epeira by the peculiar elongated shape of the ster- 
 num, which is at least, or nearly, twice as long as wide. Further, by the character of the 
 maxilla-, which are longer than wide; and, still further, by the shape of the abdomen, 
 Which is long, narrow, straight, and, especially in the female, bluntly pointed at the base, 
 and somewhat compressed at the apex. The legs are less stout than those of the typical 
 Epeira, and the spinous armature thereon feebler and less abundant; the metatarsus of 
 leg-I about equals the femur in length. In the form of the maxilla? Drexelia approaches 
 both Nephila and Meta, but differs from them, and, in a more marked degree, from Epeira, 
 in the relatively greater length of the sternum. It differs also from these genera in the 
 form of the abdomen, that of Nephila being as long as in Drexelia, but subcylindrical in 
 form, that of Meta being a rounded oval, approaching thus the typical Epeira. In the 
 shape of the abdomen Drexelia somewhat resembles Tetragnatha, and also approaches it in 
 the more feebly armed character of the legs; but the mouth parts and sternum, to say 
 nothing of other characteristics, widely divide these two genera. Drexelia approaches 
 Epeira in the contour of the face and head, hut lacks the strong tubercles on which the 
 eyes are placed in the more typical species of Epeira. It resembles examples of the same 
 genus in the general grouping of the eyes, although the two midrear eyes of the central 
 group are more closely approximated than in Epeira. 
 
 Mr. Nathan Banks (Entomological News, Philadelphia, January, 1894) has expressed the 
 opinion that Drexelia directa properly belongs to Simon's genus Larinia (1874). Certainly 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 249 
 
 there are resemblances between the two genera which may possibly be found sufficient to 
 justify that opinion, and remand Drexelia to the synonyma. But Simon, in his diagnosis 
 of Larinia, expressly describes the maxillae "as in Epeira;" on the contrary, one of the 
 most striking characteristics of the typical Drexelia is that the maxillse, as in Meta, are 
 much longer than wide, while in Kpeira they are as wide as long. Moreover, in Drexelia 
 the sternum is quite, or nearly, twice as long as wide. (See Plate XXII., Fig. 3d), while in 
 Larinia the sternum is diagnosed by Simon as simply " wider than long." For the present, 
 therefore, and in the absence of an example of the type species Larinia Defouri, upon 
 which Simon founded his genus, I retain Drexelia, as above. 
 
 Mr. Banks has been good enough to send me specimens of his Larinia borealis, which 
 I have figured and described elsewhere. He has also sent me what he regards as a true 
 example of Hentz's Epeira directa. I have presented in the drawings (Plate XXIL, Figs, 
 lb, 3e) what seem to be the most striking differences between Larinia as represented by 
 Banks' L. borealis and Drexelia as represented by D. directa. It will be observed that 
 the most marked characteristics, as above noted, are in the greater relative length of the 
 sternum and maxillse, and metatarsi of leg-I ; in Drexelia, also, the abdomen appears to 
 have a greater relative length to its width than in Larinia borealis. Araneologists, doubtless, 
 will differ as to the importance of these characteristics, and it may well be doubted whether 
 they are sufficient to justify the maintenance of separate genera. At all events, Drexelia, 
 as here defined, appears to me to be a connecting link in a chain of genera which may be 
 cited in the following series: Epeira, Meta, Larinia, Drexelia, Nephila, Tetragnatha. 
 
 No. 99. Drexelia directa (Hentz). Plate XXII, Fig. 3; PI. VI, 10, 11. 
 
 1847. Epeira directa, Hentz J. B. S., v., pi. 31, 21 ; Sp. U. S., p. 110, xiii., 21. 
 
 1847. Epeira rubella, Hentz Ibid., Fig. 22; lb., p. 120, xiii., 22 (in part). 
 
 1889. Epeira tetragnalhoides, CAMBRirxiE, Biolog. Cent. Amer., Aran., p. 16, viii., 9, 10. 
 
 1890. Epeira deludens, Marx in lilt. . . Catalogue, p. 544. 
 
 1892. Drexelia directa, McCook .... Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 127. 
 
 1894. Larinia directa, Banks Entomological News (Philada.), vol. v., No. 1, p. 8. 
 
 Female: Fig. 5. Total length, 8+ mm.; abdomen, 6.5 mm. long, 2+ mm. wide. The 
 cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long ; abdomen projecting about 1 mm. 
 
 Cepiialotiiokax : A long oval, narrowed in front ; the cephalic suture well marked ; 
 corselet grooves distinct; fosse long and deep; head not depressed; face wide; color 
 yellowish brown or rufous. Mandibles conical, and receding somewhat inward ; colored as 
 the cephalothorax. Sternum uniform yellow, slightly pubescent ; about a half longer than 
 wide (Fig. 3d); of nearly equal width throughout, except at the triangular apex; with 
 decided sternal cones, especially before coxaj-III. Labium slightly compressed at base, sub- 
 triangular at tip ; height about equal to width ; not half as high as the maxilla:. Maxilla} 
 decidedly longer than wide; the shank slightly compressed, and somewhat truncate or 
 obtusely triangular at the tip; the sides but little rounded, and the width nearly equal 
 throughout. 
 
 Eves : The ocular quad much wider in front than behind, and the height about equal 
 to the width of the front pair ; MF larger than MR, separated by about 1.5 diameter ; MR 
 separated by about a radius. Side eyes on low tubercles; SF somewhat (but little) larger 
 than SR; barely contingent. The front row slightly recurved, rear row procurved ; MF 
 removed from SF by about 1.5 their interval; SR from MR 2 to 2.5 times their area; 
 clypeus height about one diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; color uniform yellow in alcoholic specimens, rather long, and not 
 stout; sufficiently armored with long, thin spines, which are much worn off in the speci- 
 mens in hand; metatarsus of leg-I about one-fifth longer than tibia. Palps similarly 
 colored and armed. 
 
 Abdomen: Fig. a, side view. Elongated; cylindrical; more than three times as long as 
 wide; narrowing to the apex, which projects beyond the yellow spinnerets; narrowing also, 
 
250 AMERICAN SriDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 and to an obtuse point, at the base, which overhangs the cephalothorax. A broad, creta- 
 ceous or yellowish reticulated median band extends the whole length of the dorsum, 
 somewhat narrowed at the ends; brownish, branching, longitudinal lines mark the middle 
 of the dorsum towards the apex. The dorsal surface is covered with stout, short, curved 
 bristles distributed symmetrically thereon; the basal point is tufted with bristles. The 
 venter shows a yellow, median longitudinal band, with brownish margins between the 
 gills and the spinnerets, which are yellowish brown. The epigynum in the example 
 before me is apparently not quite mature, but presents the appearance of a low atriolum, 
 double notched on the edge (Fig. 3f), the scapus wanting, or expressed by a simple short 
 fold at the base. 
 
 I think it probable that Epeira directa and E. rubella of Hentz are identical, and that 
 the drawings have become somewhat mixed on the plate; Hentz himself expresses the 
 opinion (page 120), though with doubt, that his E. rubella may prove to be the young of 
 E. directa. According to this author the spider is found generally near water, where it 
 makes a perpendicular web upon low bushes. When approached it drops and remains 
 motionless where it falls. He found in Alabama a specimen with four minute blackish 
 spots upon the abdomen, which may indicate the variety drawn. (Fig. 3c.) The male was 
 found by Hentz with black dots all over the legs, except the thighs, and also with black 
 dots on each side of the abdomen, but evidently the same species, of which he adds that 
 it is nocturnal in its habits. According to Cambridge (E. tetragnathoides) the male palps 
 have short cubital joints, somewhat angular in front, with two very long, strong, tapering, 
 divergent bristles. The radial joint is obtusely produced on its outer edge ; the palpal bulb 
 small. 
 
 Distribution : North Carolina (Plate XXII., Fig. 3); Indian River, Florida. Hentz col- 
 lected in Alabama and South Carolina. The specimens described by Mr. Cambridge are 
 from Guatemala and Panama, and although they show some variations in color and markings 
 from those found in the Southern United States, appear to be the same. The distribution 
 is therefore throughout the Southern United States and North America, and probably in 
 the Northern States of South America. I believe that it lives at least as far north as New 
 Jersey. 
 
 Genus NEPHILA, Leach, 1815. 
 
 The genus Nephila, of which we have several known species, is confined to the 
 southern and southwestern belt of the United States. It is distinguished by an oval 
 cephalothorax, of nearly equal width throughout, whose base is flat and low. The 
 caput is elevated and arched, quadrate, and wide at the face ; in some species, on the base 
 thereof, near the fosse, is a pair of corneous tubercles. The skin is hard, and usually 
 covered, except on the smooth marginal walls, with a close coating of lustrous white hair, 
 which gives the organ a metallic brightness. The length of the sternum differs little 
 from its width, is marked by decided sternal cones, with a glossy and hard skin, covered 
 with metallic hairs. The labium is longer than wide, thick at the base, and the maxillae 
 especially are decidedly longer than wide, compressed at the shank and rounded at the 
 tips. The eyes are arranged in three groups, ordinarily placed upon decided tubercles; 
 the ocular quad is usually longer than wide; the side eyes well separated; the front row 
 procurved and the rear row recurved, or nearly aligned. The legs are long, rather 
 attenuated, the thighs not stout, the metatarsus relatively much longer than the tarsus, and 
 the apical part of one or more of the joints usually provided with a brushlike appendage 
 on one or both sides. The abdomen is much longer than wide, cylindrical, brilliantly 
 colored, and provided with numerous hairs, of a metallic, silvery lustre, which give the 
 animal an unusually beautiful and brilliant appearance. The epigynum has commonly a 
 hard, vaulted atriolum, and is without a scapus. The males of this genus are very much 
 smaller than the females, and do not closely resemble them. The snare is an immense 
 orb, woven in forests and woods, whose spirals are composed of successive, nearly circular, 
 loops. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 251 
 
 No. 100. Nephila Wilderi, McCook. Plate VII, Figs. 1, 2; PI. XXIII, 6, 7. 
 
 1839. Nephila plumipes, Kocn, C. L. . . Die Arach., vi., p. 128, pi. 213, Fig. 529. 
 
 1873. Nephila plumipes, Wilder .... Trans. Araer. Assocn. Adv. Sci., p. 263. 
 
 1889. Nephila Wilderi, McCook .... Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vol. I., p. 146. 
 
 1889. Nephila plumipes, Maux Catalogue, p. 551. 
 
 Female : Total length, 23 mm. ; cephalothorax, 9 mm. long, 7 mm. wide, 6 mm. across 
 the face; abdomen, 20 mm. long, 7 mm. wide at the base, tapering to 5 mm. at the apex. 
 The spider described as Nephila plumipes, and figured by Koch as above, is undoubtedly 
 the species which abounds upon our Gulf Coast. But the specific name has already been 
 appropriated for another species of the genus, the Epeira plumipes of Latreille. 1 That 
 species resembles N. plumipes of Koch, but differs from it in having two tubercles, or 
 horny processes, upon the base of the caput, near the corselet fosse. For this reason a new 
 name becomes necessary, and already I had suggested the name of N. Wilderi, in honor of 
 Professor Wilder, of Cornell University, whose interesting observations and experiments 
 have made the life history of the species so well known. 
 
 Cephalothorax: A long oval, squarely truncated at the base; thin, much depressed in 
 the centre, at the fosse, which is a lateral pit; corselet grooves abbreviated, or represented 
 by circular hollows ; cephalic suture distinct near the base ; caput elevated above the 
 corselet ; subtriangular at the apex, where it is cut straight across by the fosse ; enlarging 
 to the face, which is wide, strong, and but little depressed; summit of caput arched, the 
 base without horns ; color uniform dark brown, in older specimens particularly, but con- 
 cealed largely by a thick coat of silvery white hairs. Sternum shield shape, somewhat 
 longer than wide, dark brownish or brownish yellow color, rather heavily covered with 
 yellowish pubescence; sternal cones strong, particularly before coxte-I, and in front of 
 labium, where the cone is unusually high, and its base fully half that part of the organ. 
 Labium elongated and rounded at the point; a little humped in the middle; silvery white 
 pubescence on the edges and base. Maxillae about one-third longer (3 mm.) than labium 
 (2 mm.), narrow at base, widening at tips, which are subtriangular, and inclined toward 
 one another; ruddy brown, but at the tips glossy black brown, and covered sparingly with 
 bristles ; the inner edges concave. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on an eminence, highest and most projecting in front, longer than 
 wide, narrower in front than behind ; eyes not greatly differing in size, but MF apparently 
 somewhat larger; these are separated by about two diameters; MR by three diameters; 
 side eyes on the outer edges of strong corneous tubercles, which project much in front ; 
 nearly equal in size, but SF slightly larger, and separated by 1.5 to 2 diameters. SF 
 removed from MF by 1.5 the area of the latter, or by about 2.3 the dividing space; the 
 distance of Sll from MR is greater ; front eye row well recurved, rear row procurved ; the 
 clypeus has the height of 3 to 3.5 diameters MF ; clusters of hair come up to the bases of 
 the tubercles upon the sides, and surround the base of the ocular quad. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3 ; the third leg being relatively quite short; not stout, the joints long 
 and narrowing much towards the tips ; they are dark yellow or yellowish brown, with 
 brown annuli at the tips of joints ; the patella short, dark brown ; the tips of the femora 
 and tibiae of legs-I and II are provided with brushes of bristles arranged upon the outside 
 and inside thereof, the hairs standing quite thickly, and curved forward ; leg-IV has a 
 similar brush upon the extremity of the tip; leg-Ill is without a brush, but has a slight 
 thickening of bristles, both above and below, on the tibia, which is relatively short; color 
 of legs a ruddy yellow, except the tarsus and extremity of the metatarsus, which are black 
 or blackish ; joints quite abundantly provided with short, black spines. Palps dark yellow, 
 or lighter brown at the humeral and axillary joints, darkening much on the other joints. 
 The digital joint is nearly twice the length of the radial, and the latter is at least 1.5 
 times the length of the cubital joint, which is short ; the humeral joint has, underneath 
 the entire length, a thick row of bristles, and these are abundant on the other joints. The 
 
 •Latreille: Nat. Hist, des Insectes, Vol. VII., page 275, No. 86. Walckenacr (Apt. Ins. II., page 93) 
 regards this species as identical with his E. antipodiana. 
 
252 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 mandibles are strong, conical, and dark brown, glossy, and provided with numerous yellow- 
 ish bristles on the inside; the tips and fangs are shining black. This species is distin- 
 guished from N. clavipes by the brushlike appendages on the legs, which are strongly 
 marked and placed on the femora and tibia of legs-I, II ; but in Clavipes are shorter and 
 feebler, and are wanting on femora-I, II. Further, the strong sternal cone opposite the 
 labium is but faintly developed in Clavipes. 
 
 Abdomen : Cylindrical, thickest at the base, and tapering towards the apex ; general 
 color bright yellow, with a dark patch on the base, which extends upward to the dorsum. 
 A double row of round silver white spots, about eight in number, extends on either side 
 to the apex. Between these and along the sides are a number of roundish ovals and 
 crescent shaped markings, of light color, covering the entire dorsum and upper portion of 
 the sides, giving a remarkably beautiful appearance to the female. Similar marks extend 
 along the sides to the venter, the coloring on the sides being brown. The venter is golden 
 yellow, with a rectangular figure, composed of silvery white hairs, dividing the basal 
 portion. Within this rectangle are two rows of three or more silvery circles. The apex is 
 rounded, and descends with little anterior slope to the spinnerets. The white spots above 
 mentioned consist chiefly of hairs, which have a silvery white gloss. These hairs, placed 
 upon the bright yellow and brown colorings of the dorsum and sides, make this species 
 the most remarkable for beautiful coloring among all its race. The epigynum is a simple 
 arch above the genital cleft, whose rim is black, glossy, with short, yellow hairs. 
 
 Male: Plate VII., Fig. 2. 1 Length of body, 6 mm., the cephalothorax being nearly 
 the same length as the abdomen. In general shape it resembles the female, but is ridicu- 
 lously small in contrast with its mate. The head and cephalothorax resemble that of the 
 female in general shape, the head being well erect, the cephalothorax rounded at the base 
 and flatfish. Both the cephalic and thoracic parts are covered with short white pubescence, 
 but not so as to form the silver coating characteristic of the female. The eyes arc arranged 
 as in the female. The cymbium of the digital bulb is covered quite densely with hairs. 
 The embolus is prolonged into a long curved blade, nearly as long as the palp itself, 
 the most remarkable and characteristic feature of the animal next to its small size. The 
 two next joints are short, almost equal in size; the cubital joint has several bristles of 
 medium length, and the radial has one very long bristle. The femoral joint is longest, 
 tapering gradually towards the axillary. The sternum, labium, and maxilla; substantially 
 resemble those of the female, but the sternum is of much lighter color, and appears to be 
 destitute of the strong sternal cones that mark the female. The first leg is about 18 mm. 
 long, its color uniform yellow, slightly darker at the ends of the joints and towards the 
 feet. The tibial and femoral brushes are wanting. The abdomen is cylindrical, tapering 
 toward the apex, not wider than the cephalothorax ; a uniform yellowish color, with a dark 
 median band, running along the apical part ; the venter yellow, mottled. 
 
 Distribution : Along the Southern Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, and southwesterly to 
 Southern California. The species is also found in the West Indies, and probably inhabits 
 the Northern States of South America. 
 
 No. 101. Nephila "Wistariana, 2 new species. Plate XXIII, Figs. 2, 3. 
 
 1839. Nephila clavipes (?), Koch .... Die Arachniden, v., p. 30, pi. 152, Fig. 354. 
 1842. Nephila Vespucea{t), Waix^kenaer 3 Ins. Apt., ii., p. 98. 
 1890. Nephila clavipes, Marx Catalogue, p. 551. 
 
 1 This specimen is in the National Museum at Washington, and I am indebted to the Chief Ento- 
 mologist, Professor C. V. Riley, for the opportunity to study it. The specimen is mounted on a pin, and 
 is, therefore, dry and shriveled. Several of the legs are wanting, but otherwise it is sufficiently perfect to 
 permit description. A second and more perfect specimen is from Dr. Marx's collection. 
 
 * Proper name, General Isaac J. Wistar, President of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. 
 
 3 Walckenaer's N. Vespucea (Vespucci ?) is regarded by that author as identical with Koch's No. 364, 
 and his description fairly corresponds thereto. But the confusion is here so great that I give a new name, 
 as on the whole more satisfactory, and content myself with pointing out a probability which can only be 
 resolved by access to a good collection of this group. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 253 
 
 Female: Total length, 25 mm.; abdomen, 17 mm. long, 7 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 
 8 mm. long, G mm. wide. Koch's Nephila clavipes (plate No. 34) appears to me to be iden- 
 tical with a species found along our Gulf Coast, of which I have received several examples 
 from Mr. C. H. Townsend, collected at Swan's Island, Carribean Sea. There is, however, 
 some discrepancy between the description and illustration of Koch, as Walckenaer has 
 pointed out, Ins. Apt., II., page 99. No. 354, Koch describes as N. fasciculate De Geer, and 
 with head horns, which are certainly not represented in the figure marked for that species 
 on the plate. On the contrary, No. 355 is drawn with bead horns (apparently), although 
 " N. clavipes," which is the title of that number, is described in the text as without such 
 appendages. A specimen in Dr. Marx's collection from Key West, Florida, resembles Koch's 
 Fig. 355, Plate CLIL, and corresponds well to the description placed under " Fig. 354," 
 pages 30, 31. Has there been here a transposition of the figures? In any case a new name 
 must be given for the species numbered 354 (Plate CLIL), since both the names N. clavipes 
 and N. fasciculata are appropriated. The latter, indeed, may be a synonym of the former, 
 but this is in doubt, and, in the absence of material for study, it is not possible for the writer, 
 at least, to determine that point. The species has a close general likeness to N. Wilder!, 
 from which it may commonly be distinguished by the presence of brushes or plumes on 
 the tibia; alone, instead of on both tibiae and femora, as in Wilderi; by the absence of the 
 strong sternal cone directly opposite the labium, which marks Wilderi ; and by the venter 
 having a rather broader band of yellow instead of the brighter marginal triclinium on the 
 venter of Wilderi. 
 
 Cephalothorax: A rounded oval, sharply truncated at the base, the fosse deep, the 
 corselet grooves and cephalic suture strongly marked. The dorsum is somewhat flattened 
 at the top, covered with silvery white pubescence, the ground color orange brown, with a 
 yellow band at the margin and a broadened triangular patch upon the caput. The sternum 
 is shield shaped, pointed at the apex, almost as wide as long, slightly elevated in the 
 centre, and with rounded tubercles before the first coxce and the lip; scarcely marked 
 tubercles or lumpy elevations are opposite the second and third coxje ; color yellow, with 
 streakings of brown ; covered with pubescence. The labium is long, thickened from the 
 base to the middle, and the tip a rounded triangle ; maxillte longer than wide, pyriform, 
 and, like the lip, yellow in color, and covered, but not excessively, with bristles and hairs. 
 
 Legs: 1,2,4,3; not stout, but comparatively thin for such a large species. The spinal 
 armature is scant and rather feeble, the terminal joints particularly, and heavily coated 
 with yellow bristles. The apices of the tibial joints have clusters of bristles, forming a 
 faintly developed brush, but not so prominent as in N. plumipes. The color is yellow, 
 with orange tips at the joints, and the feet and metatarsi black or blackish brown. Palps 
 colored as the legs; mandibles conical; a slight conical projection marks the outer edge of 
 the base near the reticulation. Color dark brown and blackish. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a well rounded prominence, wider behind than in front, and 
 longest at the sides. The eyes do not greatly differ in size, but MF are the larger; are 
 separated by about two diameters; MR by 3 to 3.5 diameters; side eyes on well elevated 
 tubercles, almost equal in size, SF slightly the larger, and not differing much from the size 
 of MF. The distance between MF and SF is about 1.5 to 1.3 the alignment of MF; the 
 clypeus is high, about the alignment of MF. The front row is recurved, the rear row 
 procurved. 
 
 Abdomen: Cylindrical, somewhat thicker at the base, which overhangs the cephalo- 
 thorax, than at the apex, which slightly overhangs the spinnerets; color yellow; skin 
 reticulated ; dorsum thickly covered witli whitish spots, the largest symmetrically arranged 
 on either side of the median line; the others scattered over the dorsal fiefd, which is 
 limited at the margin on the sides by an interrupted line and on the base by a band of 
 like color. A yellow band broken in the middle passes around the anterior part of 
 the base; the sides are colored as the dorsum, and similarly marked by whitish spots. 
 These and other portions of the abdomen are provided with silvery bristles, whose metallic 
 lustre adds much to the beauty of the species. The venter is a yellow band with longitu- 
 dinal stripes of lighter color, and whitish bands, with silvery pubescence at the sides, and 
 
254 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 irregular spots in the middle. Spinnerets and gills dark brown ; epigynum is dark brown, 
 chitinous, with a cluster of yellowish hair on the atriolum, which is orange yellow; it is 
 without a scapus, but has four platelike cells, two in front and two others at the sides. 
 
 Distribution : I have specimens from islands of the Carribean Sea, received from Mr. 
 C. H. Townsend; Dr. Marx has examples from Louisiana and Texas; Koch described from 
 a Brazilian specimen. The species is therefore probably limited in the United States to our 
 Gulf Coast, and does not appear to be abundantly distributed therein. It no doubt abounds 
 throughout the Northern States of South America. 
 
 No. 102. Nephila maculata (Fabricius). Plate XXIII, Fig. 4. 
 
 1793. Aranea maculata, Fabricius . . . Entomologia Systematica, ii., p. 425, No. 66. 
 1817. Aranea maculata, Leach .... Zoological Miscellany, ii., p. 134, pi. 110. 
 1890. NepMa maculata, Marx .... Catalogue, p. 551. 
 
 Female : Total length, 27 mm. ; abdomen, 19 mm. long, 6 mm. wide at the base, 3.5 
 to 4 mm. at the apex, 4 mm. in the middle ; ccphalothorax, 8 mm. long, 6 mm. wide across 
 the corselet, 4 mm. at the face. Baron Walckenaer (Ins. Apt., II., page 98), in his descrip- 
 tion of Nephila (Epeira) fuscipes Koch, makes that species identical with Nephila maculata 
 of Leach and Fabricius. In this he errs, for the two species are very different, as one may 
 easily see by comparing "Walckenaer's descriptions and the figure of Koch with Leach's 
 excellent figure. The drawings of N. maculata on Plate XXIII. were fr6m an adult female ; 
 but after it had been completed I received from Dr. Marx several much larger specimens, 
 one of which has a body length of an inch and three-quarters, and measures 7.5 inches 
 (nearly two decimetres) from the tip of leg-I to the tip of leg-IV; leg-I is four inches 
 long. These creatures strongly suggest the vigorous African and other tropical species of 
 this beautiful genus. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Cordate; corselet rounded at the edges, depressed in the centre at 
 the fosse, which is a deep lateral slit; rather flattened upon the top; the corselet grooves 
 indistinct or obliterated; the cephalic suture sufficiently distinct; the body color brown to 
 brownish yellow, covered thickly with golden yellow pubescence. The caput is narrowed at 
 the base, on which, a little in front of the fosse, are two low conical processes on either 
 side of the median line; beyond them are two depressions in the surface of the caput, 
 which is brown, glossy, and provided less abundantly than the corselet with pubescence. 
 The head is raised above the corselet, well arched to the face; sternum shield shape, about 
 as wide as long; with sternal cones, one especially prominent in front of the labium, giving 
 the centre of the sternum an elevated appearance ; glossy brown ; indented at the edges ; 
 sparsely pubescent (though the hairs may be obliterated by the alcohol) ; the apex some- 
 what blunted or T-shaped, and bearing upon either side a slight conical eminence ; the 
 labium is long, two-thirds the length of the maxillae, rectangular at the base, which is 
 thicker than the obtusely triangular tip ; the maxilla; are longer than wide, narrowed at 
 the base, curved upon the inner edges next the labium ; ovate at the tips, where the width 
 is about three-fifths the length ; the color of maxillae and labium dark brown. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded eminence more decided in front, leaving the rear 
 eyes situated at the base thereof; the quad is decidedly narrower in front than behind, but 
 the posterior width is equal to the length ; MF slightly larger than MR, separated by about 
 1.5 to 2 diameters; MR separated 2 to 2.5; side eyes upon prominent tubercles; SF but 
 little larger than SR, separated by something more than a radius; all the eyes of the group 
 amber yell6w; SF separated from MF by 1.5 the area of the latter, or at least two times 
 or more the intervening space of the same; the clypeus is rather high, from the margin to 
 MF being about three diameters of the latter; the front row very slightly recurved, almost 
 aligned ; the longer rear row is procurved. 
 
 Legs: In the specimen in hand the legs are much broken and the color greatly 
 modified by the alcohol. So far as reconstruction permits, the order shows 1, 2, 4, 3; the 
 color brown, and, judging by the pits, apparently well armed with strong spines and thickly 
 
DESCRIPTION OP GENERA AND SPECIES. 255 
 
 pubescent; the mandibles are conical, thick at the bases, arched to the tips; dark glossy 
 brown, pubescent on the inner faces; on either side of the base they are raised into a 
 process or cog which fits against a corresponding notched projection in the dewlap of the 
 face ; palps armed and colored as legs. 
 
 Abdomen : Cylindrical, widest at the base, compressed in the middle, again widening 
 towards the apex, where it is one-half the width of the base; the front overhangs the 
 cephalothorax, and the apex projects but little beyond the spinnerets, which are at the base 
 of the high apical wall; the. color, as far as can be noted from the imperfect specimen, is 
 light brown, with a simple yellow folium extending the entire length of the dorsum, widest 
 at the base and divided on the median line by a ribbon of brown ; it thus presents the 
 appearance of two yellow bands traversing the dorsum, and uniting in front like a tuning 
 fork. A band of yellow crosses the base above the cephalothorax, and directly in front arc 
 curved markings, which extend along the sides in an interrupted band of yellow rounded 
 and elongated spots. The venter is velvety brown, with bright yellow spots arranged five 
 on either side, and two directly on the median next the epigynum, which is simply a 
 semicircular flap projecting over the genital cleft. 
 
 Distribution: One specimen, collected at Fort Buchanan, Arizona. Dr. Marx, in his 
 Catalogue, also locates it at Mariposa, California. It will probably be found well dispersed 
 along the Pacific Coast, in the more tropical parts thereof. (Marx Collection.) The speci- 
 mens described by Leach and Fabricius are from China, and there is little doubt that the 
 species is widely distributed along the coasts of Asia, whence, it may be, it was transplanted 
 to America, unless one may choose to suppose a reverse direction of movement. 
 
 No. 103. Nephila clavipes (Linnjsus). Plate XXIV, Fig. 1. 
 
 1758. Aranea clavipes, Linn^us .... Systema Natura, i., ii., p. 1034, n. 27. 
 1775. Aranea clavipes, Fabricius. . . . Systema Entomologiee, ii., p. 420, n. 50. 
 1778. Aranea fasciculata, De Geer . . Mem. l'Hist. Nat. des. Ins., vii., p. 316, No. 2, 
 
 pi. xxxix., 1—1. 
 1806. Epeira clavipes, Walckenaer . . Hist. Nat. des Araneides, fasic. i., F, 1, 2. 
 1839. Nephila fasciculata, Koch .... Die Arachniden, v., p. 30, pi. 152, Fig. 355. l 
 1842. Epeira clavipes, Walckenaer . . Hist. Nat. Insect. Apt., p. 95. 
 1890. Nephila fasciculata, Marx .... Catalogue Described Araneae, p. 551. 
 
 Female: Total length, 22 mm.; cephalothorax, 9 mm. long, 6.5 mm. wide, face width, 
 5 mm.; abdomen, 14 mm. long, 6 mm. wide at the base, and of nearly equal width 
 throughout, but somewhat diminished at the apex, which is rounded and projects over the 
 spinnerets. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A long oval ; slightly compressed at the truncated apex, flattened on 
 the summit of the corselet by the deep circular fosse; color blackish brown, covered 
 (apparently) with silvery white hairs, especially long on the sides. The head is slightly 
 elevated, wide at the face, and upon the base of the caput are two strong conical spurs. 
 The sternum shield shaped, the basal width about equal to the length; sternal cones dis- 
 tinct, and one especially prominent in front of the labium, as in Nephila Wilderi ; the 
 margins are thickly covered with yellowish, bristlelike hairs ; the labium and maxilla; 
 normal, and covered with long, curved, blackish bristles. 
 
 Eyes: The ocular quad upon a prominence, much elevated in front; sides longer than 
 width, and rear wider than front; MF larger than MR, and separated by about 1.5 diameter; 
 MR separated by 2.5 to 3 diameters; the side eyes on strong tubercles, about equal in size, 
 separated by 1.5 diameter ; SF removed from MF about 1.3 the area of the latter, or 2.5 to 
 3 times the intervening space. The clypcus height is about 2.5 diameters of MF. The front 
 eyerow is slightly recurved, the rear slightly procurved. 
 
 1 Walckenaer has pointed out what appears to me to be a fact, that, in some way, the plate numbers 
 of Koch have become confused. Figure 355 is undoubtedly intended for the above species, not for the one 
 bearing the plate name of " Nephila clavipes," as stated in the plate. 
 
25G AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINQWORK. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; the color yellowish brown, without annuli, but darker shadings at 
 the tips of joints. The tibiae of legs-I, II, IV are provided with brushes, which in the 
 specimen in hand are so much worn off in the alcohol that their form cannot be deter- 
 mined with accuracy. The palps are not long, the trochanter and humerus yellow, the tips 
 dark brown. The mandibles are conical, not receding, blackish brown in color. 
 
 Abdomen : Subcylindrical, the base somewhat projecting over the cephalothorax, and 
 the apex projecting beyond the spinnerets ; the width throughout is almost equal, except 
 at the apex, where it narrows somewhat into a rounded projection. The sides are yellowish 
 brown, marked with silvery pubescence ; the dorsum golden yellow, with the black muscular 
 pits prominent, and veined lines passing from the middle point longitudinally to tbe apex ; 
 silvery pubescence appears to be scattered over the dorsal surface. The ventral pattern is 
 a broad, yellow band, dappled with silvery spots. The epigynum is without scapus; the 
 margin of the atriolum is black, corneous, and provided on either side with tufts of 
 bristles that curve downward to the cleft. 
 
 Distribution : Key West, Florida. (The Marx Collection.) In America the species is 
 doubtless limited to the Gulf Coast; but, on the supposition that, as above described, it is 
 quite identical with l)e Geer's species, it has a wide distribution throughout the subtropical 
 parts of America. 
 
 No. 104. Nephila concolor, 1 new species. Plate XXIII, Fig. 1. 
 
 Female: Total length, 28 mm.; cephalothorax, 12 mm. long, 8 mm. wide, 6 mm. at the 
 face ; abdomen, 20 mm. long, 9 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A long oval, the corselet flat and roughened upon the surface, sunken 
 at the fosse, which is a deep lateral indentation ; corselet grooves distinct, but abbreviated ; 
 cephalic suture deep and well marked; the caput rises from the fosse, sloping gradually to 
 the face, the anterior portion of the corselet being raised therewith. Close to the fosse on 
 each side of the base is a strong, conical, blackish brown, corneous tubercle, directed for- 
 ward. The colors of the specimen are much faded out by alcohol, but the corselet appears 
 to be yellowish brown, the caput blackish brown, covered rather freely with blackish hairs. 
 The sternum is shield shaped (Fig. lc), bluntly pointed at the apex, widest m front, glossy 
 blackish brown color, provided rather sparingly with stiff brown bristles; the sternal cones 
 prominent above coxaj-I, II, III, those in front of coxse-III largest, and a cone much larger 
 than all in front of the labium. The labium is subtriangular, the length equal to the width 
 at the base, on each corner of which is a low wart; the middle part is lowly humped. 
 The maxilla? are normal. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a conical eminence, rounded to a blunted point in the forepart 
 between the middle eyes ; the quad narrower in front than rear, which equals the length ; 
 MF somewhat larger than MR, separated by about 2 to 2.5 diameters, MR by 2.5 to 3 
 diameters. Side eyes on tubercles, nearly equal in size, widely separated by the distance of 
 nearly two diameters; clypeus height about 2 to 2.5 diameters MF; front eyerow slightly 
 recurved, rear row somewhat procurved. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; ruddy brown, with dark glossy brown apical annuli ; tarsus and meta- 
 tarsus black; not stout, as compared with the size of the species; provided with short 
 yellowish gray hairs, thickly placed in certain parts, particularly at bases of thighs, and 
 with short dark spines ; the apices of tibiee-I, II, and the whole of tibia IV, show brushes 
 of short curved bristles; the coxaj strongly pubescent, especially on the sides, dark brown 
 at the bases, reddish brown at the apex, presenting a lumpy appearance, caused by two 
 protuberances on coxai-III and IV and one upon coxa-II, coxa-I being smooth. The 
 palps are colored and armed as the legs ; the humeral joint underneath is thickly covered 
 with whitish gray hair; mandibles rather short, arched at the base, conical, glossy black 
 in color. 
 
 1 1 adopt the cabinet name of Dr. Marx. The species closely resembles the preceding one (N. clavipes 
 Lin), and may be the same. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 257 
 
 Abdomen: Subcylindrical, widest toward the base, rounded and somewhat narrow in 
 front, where it overhangs the cephalothorax ; somewhat narrowed at the apex, which slightly 
 overhangs the spinnerets; dorsum but little arched, yellow, with veined branching lines 
 from the middle to apex and scalloped marginal lines; the surface thickly covered with 
 short silvery hair, which gives the organ a metallic white color; the skin color is yellow. 
 The cpigynum (Plate XXII., Fig. la) shows simply a thickened flap, obtusely triangular, 
 without a scapus, and set opposite a conical process upon the posterior side of the genital 
 cleft, which is thus inclosed between two liplike elevations. 
 
 Distribution: Southern California. The habitat of this species is somewhat in doubt. 
 Dr. Marx received it from Professor Ulysses Brown, Edinburgh, Scotland, and it was con- 
 tained in .a broken box, the label of which was mutilated; but in the same box were 
 several bottles, labeled "Group of southern islands, Santa Barbara, California." 
 
 Genus THERIDIOSOMA, Cambridge, 1879. 
 
 This genus forms a connecting link between the Orbweavers and Theridioid spiders. It 
 was created by Cambridge for the kindred, and perhaps identical, species Th. gemmosum, 
 and assigned to the Retitelariae, but was transferred by the writer to the Orbitelarise, both 
 on accoant of its habits and structure. 1 The individuals are very small, of delicate colors, 
 and in general form resemble the species of Theridium. The cephalothorax is cordate, 
 truncate at the base, the head much elevated, the face wide and projecting in front, the 
 corselet grooves and cephalic suture are distinct, the skin glossy. The sternum is cordate 
 or obtusely triangular; almost as wide as long. The labium is short, scarcely one-third the 
 height of the maxillae, which are as wide as, or wider, than long, in the female. The 
 eyes are divided into three groups, the central quad longer than wide, and the greatest 
 width behind ; the midrear eyes being much the larger, and placed close together, rela- 
 tively much closer than the midfront. The space between the sidefront and midfront eyes 
 is twice the intervening space of the latter, or about equal to the area thereof; the clypeus 
 is .high ; the front row of eyes is aligned, or a very little recurved ; the rear row decidedly 
 procurved. The legs are 1, 2, 4, 3; rather stout; scantily pubescent; provided with sharp, 
 bristlelike spines. The mandibles are long and conical. The abdomen is a rounded oval, 
 the dorsum high, arched to the distal spinnerets, and is carried by the spider in a nearly 
 vertical position. The epigynuin is a large vaulted atriolum, without a scapus, occupying 
 half the width of the venter. The male resembles in color and markings the female, 
 though somewhat smaller in size. The palpal bulb is globular, and the accessory organs 
 complex and much lengthened. This spider makes an orb web of the characteristic Epeiroid 
 type, but captures its prey by means of a trapline, which it uses somewhat in the fashion 
 of Hyptiotes, by alternate rapid tightening and releasing. 
 
 No. 105. Theridiosoma radiosum McCook. Plate XXVII, Figs. 8, 9. 
 
 1881. Epcira radiosa, McCook .... Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 163. 
 1884. Microepeira radiosa, Emehton . . N. E. Ep., p. 320, pi. xxxiv., Fig. 7. 
 1889. Theridiosoma gemmosum, McCook, Airier. Spiders and their Spinningwork, Vol. I., 
 
 eh. xii. 
 1889. Theridiosoma radiosum, Marx . . Catalogue, p. 551. 
 
 Female : Total length, 2.5 mm. ; cephalothorax, 1 mm. long, 9 lnin. wide ; abdomen, 
 1.5 mm. long, 1.3 mm. wide. These measurements vary somewhat according to the speci- 
 mens, some being larger, some smaller. Count Keyserling, who had thoroughly studied and 
 described Th. gemmosum Cambridge, also knew and described in manuscript the American 
 
 1 Volume I., chapter xii. 
 
258 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 species. He retained my name, deeming the two spiders distinct. Not having seen a 
 European specimen, I retain the name originally given, as above, although inclined to 
 think, from study of the drawings alone, Th. radiosum and Th. gemmosum identical, or 
 perhaps the former a variety of the latter. 
 
 Cepiialothorax : Cordate, truncate and indented at the base; the summit high; the 
 head much elevated, the face projecting in front, and wide; the fosse a slight semicircular 
 indentation ; sloping downward to the base and forward to the face ; the corselet grooves 
 distinct, as is the cephalic suture; the color dull yellow, glossy. The sternum is cordate, 
 obtusely triangular at the apex ; color dark brown, with a broad, yellow median band ; 
 pubescent ; rounded from the sides and flat in the middle ; the labium small, scarcely more 
 than one-third the height of the maxilla?, rounded at the tips ; the maxillw as wide as, or 
 wider, than long ; the tips squarely truncate, and inclined toward one another. 
 
 Eyes : (Fig. 8d.) Situated on a round, black conical projection, at the point of which 
 the midfront eyes of the ocular quad are placed ; the quad longer than wide, its greatest 
 width behind ; MF, which are considerably smaller than MR, are separated by about 1 to 
 1.8 diameter; MR separated by scarcely more than a radius; the side eyes are separated 
 by less than a radius; white, not greatly differing in size, but MR somewhat larger; SF 
 removed from MF by a space almost equal to the area of the latter, or twice the inter- 
 vening space or more ; the clypeus is high, the margin separated from MF by 1.3 at least 
 the area of the latter ; the front row is aligned, or a very little recurved ; the rear row 
 procurved. 
 
 Legs : 1 , 2, 4, 3 ; short, rather stout ; scantily pubescent ; provided with sharp, bristle- 
 like spines; the palps colored and armed as the legs; the mandibles long, conical, divergent 
 at the tips, glossy, yellow. 
 
 Abdomen: A rounded oval; the dorsum highly and e\enly arched, almost a semicircle, 
 to the distal spinnerets ; carried by the spider in a nearly vertical position, and, therefore, 
 the base, which is rounded, towering over the cephalothorax ; the color varies from blackish 
 to yellowish brown (Figs. 8, 8b) ; the skin soft, beautifully reticulated ; the folium a some- 
 what indistinct, broad, arrowhead pattern, marked out by silvery reticulations, which give 
 the spider a shining appearance. The epigynum (Fig. 8e) is large, occupying half the width 
 of the venter, with a high, subtriangular atriolum, showing the concavity beneath ; there is 
 no scapus, simply a swelling at the middle point of the atriolum. 
 
 Male : (Fig. 9.) Resembles the female in color and markings ; somewhat smaller in 
 size; the palps are distinguished as shown at Figs. 9b, 9c, 9d. 
 
 Distribution : I have collected this species in New England (Massachusetts, Connecti- 
 cut) ; in New York, quite abundantly in the neighborhood of Philadelphia, and as far west 
 as Ohio. Dr. Marx has it from Illinois. If we accept the identity of Theridiosoma 
 gemmosum with the American species, it is widely distributed throughout Europe. 
 
 Genus TETRAGNATHA, Walckenaer, 1806. 
 
 The species of this genus are distinguished by their elongated form, the abdomen 
 being several times as long as wide. This effect is increased by the habit of the species to 
 stretch their forelegs together and lie close to the surface of plants, so that the legs and 
 abdomen form one continuous line. The cephalothorax is an elongated oval, flattened 
 upon the dorsum of the corselet; the head usually erect, wide at the face, and quadrate. 
 The Sternum is longer than wide ; and the maxillae peculiar, in that they are decidedly 
 longer than wide, concave upon the outer margin, and widened at the tip. The eyes arc 
 placed in two rows, both of which are usually slightly recurved or aligned. The midfront 
 eyes are separated from one another by a space ordinarily equal to about one-half the 
 distance between the midfront and sidefront eyes; the side eyes are nearer one another than 
 or as near as MF to MR. The mandibles are elongated, oval, usually narrower at the 
 base than at the apex ; are marked by strong teeth, and in the male are even more 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 259 
 
 powerful than in the female. The abdomen is cylindrical, or subcylindrical, elongated, 
 decidedly longer than wide. The legs are long, attenuated, sparsely clothed with long, 
 aculeate spines, and more abundantly with bristles and hairs. The number of rows of spines 
 down the tibia is ordinarily about three ; upon the metatarsus from two to three ; upon the 
 femora, ordinarily from six to eight. The orbicular snare is commonly hung horizontally, 
 or at an angle more or less inclined. It is frequently found near or immediately over 
 water, as the species affect humid places and the banks of streams. While seated upon its 
 snare the four front legs are usually stretched- out straight before the face. 
 
 No. 106. Tetragnatha extensa (Linnjeus). Plate XXV, Figs. 3, 4, 5. 
 
 1758. Aranea extensa, 1 Linn;eus .... Syst. Nat., Ed. x., i., p. 621. 
 
 1763. Aranea Solandri, Scopoli .... Entomologia Carniolicse, p. 397. 
 
 1763. Aranea Mouffeti, Scopoli .... Ibid., p. 398. 
 
 1805. Tetragnatha extensa, Walckenaeb, Tabl. d. Aran., p. 68. 
 
 1837. Tetragnatha oblusa, C. Koch . . Uebers. d. Arachn. Syst., i., p. 5. 
 
 4 1842. Tetragnatha versicolor, Walck. . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 215; Abbot, G. S., No. 466. V' 
 
 1861. Tetragnatha extensa, Westring . . Aranese Svecicse, p. 84. 
 
 1864. Tetragnatha extensa, Blackwall . Sp. G. B. & I., ii. r p. 337, xxviii., 265. 
 
 1866. Tetragnatha extensa, Menge . . . Preuss. Spinn., i., p. 90, pi. 15, tab. 26. 
 
 1866. Tetragnatha oblusa, Menge . . . Ibid., p. 93, pi. 15, tab. 27. 
 
 1870. Tetragnatha extensa, Thorell . . Synonyms European Spiders. 
 
 1877. Tetragnatha extensa, Thobell . . Aranese Colorado, 2 Bull. U. S. Geol. Survey. 
 
 1884. Tetragnatha extensa, Emerton . . N. E. Ep., 333, pi. 39, Figs. 9, 10. 
 
 1889. Tetragnatha extensa, McCook . . Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 Female: Total length, 8.5 mm.; abdomen, 6.3 mm. long; across base, 3 mm. wide; 
 across apex, 1.5 mm. wide ; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long by 2 mm. wide. The general 
 colors of the fore part are yellow and yellowish brown, and of the abdomen various shades 
 of yellow and greenish. While young, often a uniform light green (Fig. 5b). 
 
 Cephalothorax : A long oval, truncated and indented behind, widest at the middle, 
 flattened at the top ; dorsal fosse deep ; corselet grooves sufficiently distinct ; cephalic suture 
 distinct ; the head elevated above the corselet level ; the caput wide, the projecting part or 
 head of nearly equal width to the face ; color, a warm yellow, with brown markings on 
 sides of caput and margins of corselet ; skin glossy, pubescence scant. Sternum (5d) a long 
 shield shape, tapering to a point, high in the middle, slightly pubescent; color, a broad, 
 yellow median band, with blackish or dark brown margins ; labium subtriangular, relatively 
 shorter than in T. grallator ; maxilla; concave on the outer edges, of nearly equal width 
 throughout, but widest at the tips. 
 
 Eyes : (3, 3b.) MF on a central prominence ; the MR not thus elevated ; ocular quad 
 narrowest in front, the rear wide as, or wider, than the sides. MF smaller than MR, 
 separated by 1.5 to 2 diameters, MR separated by 2 to 2.5 diameters. Of the side eyes 
 SR are the larger; they are separated from one another by about two-thirds the space 
 which divides MF from MR. MF are separated from SF by about 1.25 their area, and 
 from the margin of the clypeus by about 2.5 diameters. The front row slightly recurved, 
 the rear row slightly procurved, almost aligned. The distance between MR and SR is 
 about equal to the space between the two MR. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; first pair at least eight times length of cephalothorax; of uniform 
 yellow color, except slightly darker annuli at the joints, feebly armed with pubescence, 
 bristles, and a few blackish spines. The mandibles (3a, 3b) about seven-tenths the length 
 
 1 A complete synonymicon would fill several pages; I give but a few of the more important synonyms. 
 3 Professor Thorell appears to me in this report to have confounded variations of this species with 
 T. elongata (grallator). 
 
260 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 of the cephalothorax ; thickest at the apex, arched about the middle, and tapering some- 
 what to the base ; almost straight upon the exterior margin. Teeth numbering about eight, 
 of nearly equal length, but the two middle ones slightly longer. The fang with a slight 
 tooth on the exterior side near the base. 
 
 Abdomen: Cylindrical, longer than wide, in many species straight along the dorsum, 
 in others arched (3a) slightly, tapering at the apex, which slightly overhangs the spin- 
 nerets; the base overhangs the cephalothorax, is somewhat narrowed, and bifid. The dorsal 
 folium is yellowish brown, traversed by a broad, irregular median line of cretaceous yellow; 
 it occupies the whole of the dorsum, and is margined by an indented band of cretaceous 
 yellow, extending downward' along the side. This band is sometimes whitish, inclined to 
 silver, and sometimes shaded by a line of black. Beneath it, on the side, is a band of 
 brown, extending to the venter, whose pattern is a broad, brown median ribbon, margined 
 on either side by a strip of cretaceous yellow. In some individuals (Fig. 3) the folium is 
 not so strongly marked as in the above, Fig. 5. The epigynum (5c) is a simple cleft, with 
 an arched hood. 
 
 Male: (Figs. 4 and 5x.) 7 mm. long; colored and marked generally as the female. 
 Both rows of eyes are distinctly procurved, the head well elevated; the jaws (Fig. 4a) 
 longer, relatively, than those of the female, are strongly bent outward, cylindrical, somewhat 
 compressed at the base; on the upper and inner surface is a long spur (4b), slightly bifid; 
 one of the teeth, nearly midway of the furrow, is especially prominent (4a) ; the fang is 
 long and evenly curved, extending as far as the maxillae (5d) ; of the palps (Figs, y and 
 4c), the radial joint is about one-third longer than the cubital. 
 
 Distribution : This spider appears to be distributed throughout the United States. I 
 have it from California (Mr. Curtis, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Eigenmann), from British Columbia, 
 and have collected it from Canada and New England southward to Florida. Thorell 
 describes it from Labrador. It is one of our cosmopolitan species, being distributed widely 
 through Europe, and perhaps other continents. 
 
 No. 107. Tetragnatha elongata Walckenaer. Plate XXV, Figs. 1, 2. 
 
 1805. Tetragnatha elongata, Walckenaer . . . Tabl. des Araneides, p. 09, No. 2. 
 
 ' -1837. Tetragnatha grallator, Hentz J. B. S-., vi., p. 20. 
 
 1841. Tetragnatha elongata, Walckenaer . . . Ins. Apt., ii., p. 211 ; Abbot, G. S., No. 210. • 
 
 1804. Tetragnatha fluviatilis (?), Keyserling. . Orbitel., Verh. Ges. Wien, 852, xxi., 10. 
 
 1805. Tetragnatha grallator, Keyserling . . . Ibid., p. 850, xxi., 24-27. 
 1875. Tetragnatha grallator, Hentz Sp. U. S., p. 131, xv., 1, 2. 
 
 1877. Tetragnatha elongata, Thorell Aranese Collected in Colorado, p. 477. 
 
 1879. Tetragnatha Illinoisensis (?), Keyserling, N. Spinn. Amer., i., 318, iv., 18. 
 
 1884. Tetragnatha grallator, Emerton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 334, xxxix., 1-0. 
 
 1889. Tetragnatha elongata, McCook Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 1889. Tetragnatha elongata, Marx Catalogue, p. 552. 
 
 1893. Tetragnatha grallator, Banks Jour. N. Y. Entom. Soc, i., 131. 
 
 Female: Total length, 12 mm., including the outstretched mandibles, 14 mm.; abdo- 
 men, 9.5 to 10 mm. long at the base, 3 mm. wide, tapering to 1.5 mm. at the apex; 
 cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long by 1.7 mm. wide. This spider grows to even larger size in 
 some of the running waters and ponds of our country, near which it makes its home, 
 % frequently spinning its horizontal web above the surface of the water. Its general colors 
 
 for the fore part are brown, or yellowish brown, and for the abdomen yellow, with brown 
 markings, which (particularly in alcohol) assume a metallic golden lustre. 
 
 Cephalothorax : A long oval, truncated at the base ; fosse deep ; corselet grooves 
 indistinct; cephalic suture marked; the head wide, and but little tapering to the face; color 
 
 1 Abbot appears to have drawn, and Walckenaer to have described, this species under several names. 
 I consider as identical with T. elongata, not only the above (T. fulva), but T. flmbriata (page 213), Q. S., 
 Nos. 461, 481, and T. violacea (page 218), No. 446. 
 
 V 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 261 
 
 brown, with lighter patches of yellow, the caput and face yellowish brown. Sternum shield 
 shape, longer than wide, elevated in the centre, brown, with a yellow median band. The 
 labium is long, of nearly equal width throughout. The maxillae (Fig. Id) are extremely 
 long, rounded at the tip on the inside, and bluntly pointed on the outside, the width about 
 one-third the length. 
 
 Eyes: Eye space wide; the ocular quad (lb) on an elevation most prominent in front; 
 rear wider than front, and about equal to sides ; MF larger than MR, separated by less 
 than 1.3 diameter ; MR separated by nearly 2 diameters. The 6ide eyes on a slight 
 tubercle; SR greater than SF, from which they are separated by about their diameter; the 
 space between side eyes is less than that between MF and MR; SF are separated from MF 
 by about twice the distance between MF. The clypeus in height about 1.5 diameter MF. 
 All the eyes are black, or upon black basal spots. The front row is slightly recurved, the 
 rear row about aligned. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; long, thin, armed with light, yellowish bristles, and rather sparingly 
 with long, thin spines, set upon dark pits; first pair eleven times as long as the cephalo- 
 thorax ; color, warm yellow, with slight brown annuli at tips of joints, and the feet some- 
 what darker or blackish. The palps resemble the legs in form, color, and armature. The 
 mandibles are long, subcylindrical, the outer margin concave, bent sharply outward toward 
 the tips, where they are widely separated ; their length is about that of the cephalothorax ; 
 the fang (le) is long, curved, sinuated, not quite touching the maxilla?, black, or blackish 
 brown ; the base marked with a tooth on the upper surface. The mandibles are a light 
 shade of brown or dark yellow. The tips are armed around the apical margin with strong 
 black teeth ; one large tooth is placed upon the apex of the exterior furrow ; after a wide 
 interval there follow six smaller teeth. The interior row consists of nine to ten teeth, 
 diminishing in size toward the base. 
 
 Abdomen : Much longer than wide, cylindrical, thickest at the base. The dorsum is 
 highly arched on the base, about the middle slopes downward, and the apical half contracts 
 into a width of about one-half that at the base, where it is somewhat rounded or trun- 
 cated ; the spinnerets are distal. The surface is clothed with delicate pubescence ; the color 
 varies from yellow to light brown, with, especially in alcoholic specimens, metallic, golden 
 reticulations. The dorsal folium is bounded by two longitudinal, waving lines, having about 
 three indentations from the base to the apex. In the middle is a darker longitudinal band, 
 separated more or less distinctly by a median line. The ventral pattern is a brown or dark 
 yellow band, passing from the gills to the spinnerets, with marginal bands of lighter color, 
 the whole reticulated like the dorsum and sides. The epigynum (lc) is simply a small 
 semicircular hood, without any scapus. 
 
 Male: Length, 8 mm.; from the tips of the outstretched mandibles, 11 mm. The legs, 
 cephalothorax, and mandibles are colored as in the female, and the abdomen has the same 
 general colors and form. The dorsal folium, however, is not so complicated. The abdomen 
 is not so thick at the base, relatively, but is more equal in length throughout, cylindrical, 
 and covered with pubescence apparently stronger than in the female. The palps are 
 extremely long (2a, 2b), the digital joint swollen into a semiglobular bulb, beyond which 
 the cymbium and alveolus much project ; the cubital joint is about one-half the length of 
 the radial. The mandibles (2a) are relatively longer than those of the female, more uni- 
 formly concave outwardly, thickened towards the tips, with long, sinuated fangs; of the 
 teeth on the front margin of the claw furrow one is much longer and stronger than the 
 other, and one strong, curved tooth, next in size to the above, is set upon the inside, at 
 the tip. A long spur, with bifid tip, marks the upper and exterior part of the apex. The 
 labium is long, somewhat narrower at the rounded tip ; the maxillae, as in the female, 
 extremely long, cut rather more squarely at the tip, where they are widest, and thence 
 curving along the outer margin to the base, where they are even thicker than at the tip. 
 
 Distribution : This species is widely distributed throughout the United States, my 
 specimens locating it from New England, along the Atlantic Coast, southward and west- 
 ward through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Wisconsin, and again along the Pacific Coast from 
 Oregon to California. Hentz found it in North and South Carolina and Alabama ; Abbot in 
 
262 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Georgia, It is probably found in all parts of the United States and Canada. It loves the 
 neighborhood of streams, and stretches its horizontal snare above the water. I have found 
 them covering the plants around the base of a roaring waterfall. 
 
 No. 108. Tetragnatha Banksi, new species. Plate XXIV, Fig. 6 ; PI. XXVIII, 4. 
 
 Male: Total length, C mm., including the mandibles, 7.5 mm.; abdomen, 4 mm. long, 
 1 mm. wide; cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1 mm. wide; general colors for the fore part, uni- 
 form yellow, on the abdomen mottled with black. 
 
 Cephalothorax: A long oval, widest in front; the fosse a deep indentation upon the 
 summit of the corselet; corselet grooves indistinct; cephalothorax suture sufficiently marked. 
 Color yellow, tipped with brown, and sparsely covered with gray pubescence; caput ele- 
 vated above the corselet and of like color; face wide, with pubescence in the ocular area. 
 
 Sternum: Arrow shaped, longer than wide, receding from the apex, raised in the 
 middle where it is flattened ; color dull yellow, with scant pubescence. Labium long, wide 
 at the base, subtriangular at the tip; less than half the width of the maxillre, which are 
 long, club shaped, of nearly equal width throughout, roundly truncate at tips, which point 
 outwards. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad widest behind, the length about equal to the width ; MF on a 
 rounded elevation and separated by about 1.3 diameter, and smaller than MR, which are 
 separated by about two diameters. SF decidedly smaller than SR, and the two more 
 closely approximated than the middle group ; the space between SF and MF is about twice 
 the distance between MF; between MR and SR a little greater than between MR. Front 
 row slightly recurved, rear row aligned or nearly so; clypeus wide, equal at least to twice 
 the diameter MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; leg-II being but slightly longer than leg-Ill; thin, sparsely provided 
 with dark brown spines and feeble bristles; color yellow. Leg-I measures from 20.5 to 
 22 mm. The mandibles arc about 2 mm. long, concave externally, slightly increased in 
 width towards the apex ; the fang evenly curved externally, but underneath slightly undu- 
 late, and extending below the tips of the maxillre when folded ; about six to eight teeth of 
 nearly equal length ; on the inner and upper surface a strong, long, slightly bifid spur. The 
 radial joint of the palp is about 1.5 times the length of the cubital joint, and is provided 
 with a slight curved projection, which distinguishes it from the males of other indigenous 
 species of Tetragnatha. 
 
 Abdomen : The abdomen is cylindrical, about four times longer than wide, somewhat 
 narrowing towards the distal spinners. An indistinct folium marks the dorsal surface, 
 which is reticulated and flanked on either side by a band of brownish color. I have what 
 I regard as the female of this species, but am not certain as to the identity, and therefore 
 give no detailed description. In general form and color it resembles the male. 
 
 Distribution : I have several specimens of this species, which I have dedicated to Mr. 
 Nathan Banks, from Florida, and one from Wisconsin. This would indicate a general dis- 
 tribution throughout the United States. 
 
 No. 109. Tetragnatha laboriosa Hentz. Plate XXV, Figs. 7, 8. 
 
 1850. Tetragnatha laboriosa, Hentz . . . J. B. S., vi., 27; Sp. U. S., 131, xv., 3. 
 
 1865. Tetragnatha laboriosa, Keyserling Orbitel., Verh. Ges. Wien., 841, xx., 16, 17. 
 
 1884. Tetragnatha laboriosa, Emerton . N. E. Ep., p. 334, xxxix., 7, 8, 11, 19; xl., 17. 
 
 1889. Tetragnatha laboriosa, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 552. 
 
 1893. Tetragnatha laboriosa, Banks . . Jour. N. Y. Entom. Soc, i., 131. 
 
 Female: Total length, 7.5 mm.; abdomen, 5 mm. long, 2 mm. wide, receding to 1 mm.; 
 cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1.3 mm. wide. The size varies a good deal; the colors are 
 yellowish brown, with silvery abdomen. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 2G3 
 
 CEriiALOTHORAx : A long oval, truncated at the base, the fosse deep, and corselet 
 grooves rather indistinct; dorsum flat; head slightly elevated, and but lightly depressed in 
 front ; color brown, with lighter shades of yellow, particularly at the face. Sternum (7c) 
 longer than wide, widest at intersection of second coxae, and much tapering towards the 
 apex, rounded in the centre ; color yellow or yellowish brown, slightly pubescent. The 
 labium rounded at the tip, about one-third length of maxillae, which are normal. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated in front, MR scarcely elevated above the facial surface. 
 The front narrower than the rear, the latter about the length of the sides; MF smaller, 
 separated from one another by about 1.5 diameter; MR separated by at least two. The 
 side eyes, of which SR are larger, are separated from each other as widely as, or more 
 widely, than MF from MR, but the distance not so decided as in Eugnatha. The front row 
 is nearly as long as the rear row. The front row is slightly recurved, the rear row also 
 recurved. MF are separated from SF by about 1.3 their area, or 2.5 times their intervening 
 space. The clypeus is about the height of 1.5 to 2 diameters of MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; long, thin, armed with slight bristles of yellowish gray color, and a 
 few long, feeble, dark brown spines. Color yellow, with a slightly darker annulus at tips of 
 joints. The first leg is from six to seven times the length of cephalothorax. The palps 
 are light yellow, the mandibles (7b) wide towards the middle, thence slightly convex 
 on the inside, straight upon the outside ; the skin glossy and a warm yellow ; the fangs 
 dark brown or blackish ; the mandibular teeth not greatly differing in size. The fang is 
 without a basal tooth, is as long as the maxilla; (6b) ; not undulate. 
 
 Abdomen: Cylindrical, about four times as long as wide; somewhat thicker in the 
 basal than the apical half, the difference being more decided in some specimens than 
 others. Many individuals show the abdomen almost straight, others slightly arched in the 
 basal half. The spinnerets are placed beneath the apical wall, which slightly overhangs. 
 The skin is reticulated, covered quite closely witli short grayish hairs; the color silvery, 
 with streakings of yellow. The dorsal folium consists simply of a median line of brownish 
 hue with various radiating veins. The venter shows a dark brown band extending from 
 the gills to the spinnerets, flecked on either side by bands of yellow and lighter shade in 
 the middle. The epigynum (7d) is an arched hood without scapus. 
 
 Male: Fig. 8 in color closely resembles the female; the eyes show little or no differ- 
 ence. The radial joint of the palpus (8b) is about half as long as the digital and nearly 
 equals in length the cubital joint. 
 
 T. laboriosa may be distinguished from T. extensa, T. elongata, and T. Banksi by the 
 side eyes, which are further removed from one another than midfront from midrear, instead 
 of being placed nearer to one another than, or as near as, MF from MR. Moreover, I>abori- 
 osa's abdomen has a silvery sheen, and as a rule is of more even thickness throughout ; but 
 in the latter respect one observes differences, for some examples of T. extensa especially 
 approach T. laboriosa in the form of the abdomen, and the latter, on the contrary, some- 
 times is thickened towards the base. Most species, except T. laboriosa, when in alcohol, 
 have the reticulations on their sides a metallic golden hue. 
 
 It is more difficult to distinguish between T. elongata and T. extensa. This, however, 
 may be done as follows: The eyes, substantially, are alike in their arrangement; but the 
 mandibles of Elongata are relatively somewhat longer than the cephalothorax, being .8 as 
 long at least, while the mandibles of Extensa are at most .7 as long. Again, the first pair 
 of legs of Elongata are eleven times as long as the cephalothorax, while the first leg 
 of Extensa is only about six or seven times as long as the cephalothorax. The female of 
 each species has a tooth which points forward placed upon the upper part of the mandi- 
 bular fang near the point of articulation, but in T. elongata this is relatively larger than in 
 T. extensa. It is wanting in the male of both these species. A similar tooth, but apparently 
 less decided, is found upon the fang of the female T. laboriosa. Elongata male may be 
 further distinguished from Extensa by the fact that the margins of the mandibular shield 
 or furrow have at least ten to twelve teeth, while Extensa numbers but six to eight. 
 Elongata also appears to grow to a much larger size, and the tendency in the adult species 
 is to have the abdomen much thicker relatively at the basal half than the apical half, and 
 
264 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 also to be decidedly curved ; that is to say, arched upon the basal half and curving down- 
 ward to an equal thickness of the apical half. 
 
 Distribution: T. laboriosa has been collected from New England southward to Florida 
 and Texas, and on the Pacific Coast as far north as the British possessions. It doubtless 
 dwells in the entire United States. 
 
 Genus EUGNATHA, Savigny and Audouin, 1825. 
 
 The genus Eugnatha in its general characteristics resembles Tetragnatha. It is distin- 
 guished therefrom especially by the position of the side eyes, which in Tetragnatha are 
 rather closely approximated, being at least nearer to one another than are the midrear and 
 midfront eyes. In Eugnatha the side eyes are widely separated, much more so than the 
 eye rows of the middle group. The genus is distinguished from Eucta by the fact that the 
 abdomen does not extend beyond the spinnerets into a caudal apex. 
 
 No. 110. Eugnatha vermiformis (Emerton). Plate XXV, Fig. 9. 
 
 1884. Tetragnatha vermiformis, Emerton, N. E. Ep., 333, xxxix., Figs. 12-14. 
 
 1889. Tetragnatha vermiformis, McCook . Amer. Spid. and their Spinningwork, Vol. I., p. 160. 
 
 1889. Eugnatha vermiformis, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 552. 
 
 1893. Eugnatha vermiformis, Banks . . Jour. N. Y. Entom. Soc, i., p. 131. 
 
 Female : Total length, 11 mm. ; cephalothorax, 3 mm, long, 2 mm. wide ; abdomen, 
 8.7 mm. long, 2.6 mm. wide, diminishing to 1.3 mm. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Elongated oval, truncated at the base; the fosse a low circular depres- 
 sion ; cephalic suture distinct ; corselet grooves indistinct ; color brown, with yellow bands 
 along the sides, sparsely covered with yellowish pubescence. Sternum yellowish brown, 
 with a lighter median band ; the centre raised and flattened ; sternal cones not prominent. 
 
 Eves: Ocular quad elevated in front alone, MF being upon a rounded elevation; longer 
 than wide, the rear wider than the front; MF somewhat smaller than MR, separated by a 
 little more than one diameter; MR by 1.5 or more. The side eyes about equal in size to 
 MF, separated more widely than MF, but not relatively so much as in Eucta; SF from MF 
 by about twice the interspace of the latter; the distance between SR and MR relatively 
 somewhat less than the above. Clypeus height equal to about twice the diameter MF; the 
 front eye row aligned, the rear row recurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; rather strong, armed with long aculeate bristles and short yellowish 
 hairs, with a few thin spines. Color uniform yellow. Palps colored and armed as the legs. 
 The mandibles project from the face at an angle of about forty-five degrees; are almost 
 straight on the exterior edge; 1.7 mm. long; widest about the middle, concave on the 
 interior margin, color yellow ; fangs dark, glossy brown ; scarcely or barely extending to the 
 maxillae; a slight tooth marks the outer surface near the base. The interior furrow has two 
 teeth on the apex near the insertion of the fang, and about eight farther along the furrow, 
 of which the third and sixth are the longest. 
 
 Abdomen: Thickened at the base, bifid in front, cylindrical, four to five times as long 
 as wide, color yellow, with golden reticulations. (Figs. 9-9a.) The spinnerets are just below 
 the apical wall, which projects a very little. The epigynum is a small arched hood, without 
 scapus. The form of the abdomen differs from the above at times (9b), the width being 
 almost equal throughout and curved, giving a decided vermiform appearance. 
 
 Male: Closely resembles the female. The radial joint of the palps is not longer than 
 the cubital ; the mandibles are shorter than the cephalothorax. 
 
 Distribution : This species has been collected in New England, in New York (Banks), 
 and as far west as Utah (Marx), and my specimens are from Wisconsin (Professor Peck- 
 ham). It is thus probably distributed throughout the entire United States, at least east of 
 the Rocky Mountains. The young of this species were discovered by me navigating the 
 waters of Deal Lake, New Jersey, by means of filiform sails, as described in Vol. I., page 160. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 265 
 
 No. 111. Eugnatha pallida (Banks). Plate XXV, Figs. 10, 11. 
 
 1892. Telragnatha pallida, Banks . . . Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 51. 
 
 1893. Eugnatha, pallida, Banks .... Jour. N. Y. Entom. Soc, i., p. 132. 
 
 Female: Total length, 11.5 mm.; abdomen, 9 mm. long, 2.3 mm. at the base, dimin- 
 ishing in some specimens to 1 mm. at the apex ; eephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 1 .5 mm. wide ; 
 mandibles, 2.3 mm. long. 
 
 Cephai.otiiorax : Oval, squarely truncated at the base; fosse a triangular depression; 
 corselet grooves and cephalic suture distinct; caput elevated above level of corselet; color 
 brown, with yellow markings upon the caput, face, and sides, and slight grayish pubescence. 
 Sternum yellowish brown, raised in the middle, a depression between coxai-1 and II, 
 scantily pubescent, with a line of long curved bristles along the concavely truncated base, 
 extending towards the labium; the latter is roundly triangular, wide at the base, which is 
 of a brownish color, the tip being yellow ; maxillre more than twice the Jength of the 
 labium ; widest at the tips, which arc roundly truncated, pointed outward, slightly concave 
 on the margin; the fangs when folded do not touch the maxillae. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad on a rounded eminence most prominent in front; the rear width 
 greatest and about equal to the length; MF somewhat larger than MR, separated by about 
 or a little more than one diameter, MR separated by about two diameters. Side eyes upon 
 small tubercles about equal in size, smaller than MF, separated by a space about one quarter 
 greater than that which divides the middle group ; space between MR and MF about twice 
 the interspace of MF; the space between MR and SR somewhat less than that between MR. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; uniform yellow in color, abundantly armed with small aculeate 
 bristles, and well provided with long blackish spines. The palps are colored and armed as 
 the legs. The mandibles are long, strong, extended forward nearly horizontally from the 
 face, almost straight or but slightly concave upon the exterior; about ten teeth on the 
 superior claw furrow, of which two are on the apex of the mandible ; color yellow, with 
 long bristles, particularly upon the inner surface; fang dark brown, glossy, evenly curved 
 on the exterior surface. 
 
 Abdomen : About four times as long as wide ; the dorsum slightly arched ; in some 
 specimens thickened, in others of almost uniform width throughout, and with but little 
 curvature; dorsal surface beautifully reticulated, the skin in alcoholic specimens having a 
 metallic golden lustre; the dorsal pattern is a central median line, with a cruciform figure 
 near the base, and two curved longitudinal branches further down. The spinnerets are just 
 under the apical wall. The ventral pattern is a lighter band of reticulated yellow. The 
 epigynum is situated close up to the base, and is a simple arch without scapus. 
 
 Male: 10.3 mm. long, somewhat shorter and slighter in general form than the female, 
 but in color and pattern closely resembling her. The corselet grooves and cephalic suture 
 are less distinct; the midfront eyes are decidedly larger than the midrear; SF somewhat 
 smaller than SR. The legs are long, the first leg much longer relatively than the second ; 
 it is about eleven times the length of the eephalothorax. The mandibles are three to four 
 mm. long, straight upon the exterior surface, and but little curved on the interior, which is 
 marked by strong rows of long bristles; the teeth are small, those upon the interior furrow 
 numbering about nine, with two additional and larger ones on the apex ; a long spur curved 
 and widely bifid, or with a short tooth below the point, mark the upper and inner surface 
 near the apex. The fang is long and somewhat undulate towards the apex. The radial 
 joint, of the palp is nearly twice as long as the cubital. The jaws are slightly inclined to 
 the face instead of being extended almost horizontally, as with the female. Banks says 
 that the outer tooth (spur) is not bifid. This characteristic should, I think, be modified as 
 above by speaking of the spur as "widely bifid," or at least with a toothlike projection 
 upon the side near the apex. 
 
 Distribution: My specimens are from New York, New Jersey, and Florida; Dr. Marx 
 has a specimen from Texas, thus indicating a distribution along the entire Atlantic and 
 Gulf Coasts. 
 
266 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Genus EUCTA, Simon, 1881. 
 
 The general characteristics of this genus are those of Eugnatha, the side eyes being 
 widely separate, much more so than the middle eyes. The genus is especially distinguished 
 from Eugnatha by the prolongation of the abdomen into a caudal like apex, which extends 
 some distance beyond the spinnerets. 
 
 No. 112. Eucta lacerta (Walckenaer). Plate XXIV, Figs. 5, 6; PI. XXVIII, 5. 
 
 \ 1842. Tetragnatha lacerta, Walckenaer. 1 Ins. Apt., ii., p. 224 ; Abbot, G. S., No. 496. V 
 1884. Tetragnatha caudata, Emerton . . N. E. Ep., 335, xxxix., 16-22. 
 1889. Eucta caudata, Marx Catalogue, p. 552. 
 
 Female: Total length, 8 mm.; cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1.3 mm. wide; abdomen, 7 
 mm. long, 1.3 mm. wide at the base, diminishing almost to a point. The general color in 
 alcohol is yellow, the abdomen covered with metallic golden reticulations. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Rectangular— ovate, truncated at the base, where it is somewhat 
 higher than in front; color yellow, with brownish bands on either side of the fosse, 
 extending along the edges of the caput; face yellow, as are the mandibles. Sternum an 
 elongated shield, rounded in the centre; yellowish brown, with a lighter median band. 
 The fangs, when folded, extend to the maxillse. The latter organs are widest at the tips, 
 and about three times the length of the labium, which is obtusely triangular at the tip. 
 
 Eyes: (Fig. 5d.) Ocular quad slightly elevated in front, widest behind, eyes not 
 greatly differing in size ; MF separated by about 1.5 diameter, MR by about 2 diameters. 
 Side eyes about one-fourth further removed from one another than are the middle eyes; 
 somewhat smaller in size. Front eye row is procurved (5b), the rear row decidedly 
 recurved. MF are separated from one another by about one-half less than the space 
 between SF and MF. The clypeus is about the height of two diameters MF. The space 
 between MR is greater than that between MR and SR. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; uniform yellow, thin almost to feebleness, covered with slight pubes- 
 cence. The mandibles are yellow, long, narrowed, and slightly widened at the tip ; about 
 one mm. long. 
 
 Abdomen : At least seven times as long as wide, diminishing almost to a point ; 
 spinnerets elongated, from one-fourth to one-third the distance from the apex; color 
 yellow, with golden reticulations, and median lines of brownish hue drawn along the 
 dorsum, marking out an imperfect folium ; venter a long band of yellow, bordered by 
 sinuated lines of yellowish brown. The epigynum an arched atriolum, without scapus. 
 
 Male : (Fig. 6.) Is smaller and slighter than the female ; resembles it in color and 
 marking. The abdomen is squarely truncate at the base, and terminates in a caudal exten- 
 sion, as with the female. The mandibles are relatively longer than the female, but little 
 curved, almost straight upon the exterior margin. The fangs are feeble as compared with 
 Tetragnatha; an elongated spur upon the upper surface, about one quarter the distance 
 from the apex. One long tooth marks the superior claw furrow about one-third the dis- 
 tance from the apex. Palp is longer, the radial joint scarcely longer than the cubital. 
 
 Distribution : This species has been collected as far north as Canada, in New York 
 (Banks), New England, New Jersey, District of Columbia (Marx), and as far south as 
 Florida and Alabama, and to the southwest as far as Arizona and Texas. It is probably 
 distributed throughout the entire United States, at least east of the Rocky Mountains. 
 
 1 From Walckenaer's description and Abbot's drawing I have no doubt that this is identical with 
 Emerton's Tetragnatha caudata. Walckenaer expresses the opinion that the species should probably be 
 placed in a new genus, but, not having more than the drawing to guide him, left it provisionally with 
 Tetragnatha. Abbot calls it the "Lizard Spider," and adds the note: "This singular spider resembles a 
 lizard in the abdomen. It commonly carries the end crooked, like the tail of some animals." 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 267 
 
 Genus PACHYGNATHA, Sundevall, 1823. 
 
 Pachygnatha, like Tetragnatha, is distinguished by its strong, elongate, curved jaws, 
 widely separated at the apex, and armed with formidable teeth. It is distinguished from 
 Tetragnatha, on the other hand, by an ovate abdomen, but little longer than wide. The 
 cephalothorax is oval, its skin hard and glossy ; the caput rounded and elevated above 
 the corselet, the grooves and cephalic suture distinct. The sternum is longer than wide, 
 decidedly aculeate at the apex, with distinct sternal cones ; wide at the base. The labium 
 is long, wide at the base, more than half as long as the maxillae, which are decidedly 
 longer than wide, a little compressed at the shank, convex on the outer margin, and 
 inclined toward each other. The legs are in order of length 1, 2, 4, 3, nearly all without 
 ordinary spines, but freely clothed with soft, long, aculeate bristles. The palps are long, 
 and armored as the legs. The mandibles are formidable, elongate, resembling those of 
 Tetragnatha. The eyes are in three groups, the central quad upon a high eminence ; the 
 side eyes upon tubercles less elevated ; the space between the midfront and sidefront eyes 
 is somewhat greater than the area of MF, twice and more the intervening space thereof, 
 as in Epeira. The clypeus is extremely high, being more than 1.5 times the area of MF, 
 as in Theridioid genera. The front eye row is slightly recurved, the rear row more or less 
 procurved. 
 
 No. 113. Pachygnatha brevis Keyserling. Plate XXVI, Figs. 9, 10 ; XXVIII, 2. 
 
 1882. Pachygnatha tristriata, 1 Keyserling . Neue Spinn. Amerik., iv., 209, Zool. Bot. Ges. 
 
 Wien., p. 17. 
 
 1883. Pachygnatha brevis, Keyserling . . . Ibid., v., p. 658. 
 
 1884. Pachygnatha brevis, Emerton . . . . N. E. Ep., p. 366, xxxiv., 21 ; xl., 8-10. 
 1889. Pachygnatha brevis, Marx Catalogue, p; 553. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5.5 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide; abdo- 
 men, 3.5 mm. long, 2.5 mm. wide; mandible, 1.3 mm. long. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Glossy, with scant pubescence, the skin punctured ; a dark band of 
 brown along the margin, a median ribbon of light color extending from the forehead to 
 the base of the corselet, on either side of which is a wide band of yellow ; head well 
 elevated, quadrate, somewhat depressed in the middle of the vertex, with a lumpy appear- 
 ance on either side ; corselet grooves and cephalic suture distinct. Sternum almost an 
 equilateral triangle, elevated in the middle, and punctured. Labium blackish ; maxilla} 
 glossy brown. 
 
 Eyks : Ocular quad (9a) almost square, but slightly wider behind ; eyes not greatly 
 differing in size. MF slightly larger; side eyes propinquate, smaller than the middle 
 group, of about equal size, separated from MF by a space about equal to the area of the 
 latter, or one and a half to two times the intervening space. Front eye row slightly 
 recurved, rear row procurved. The space between SR and MR is wider than that between 
 SF and MF, the arrangement of the eyes resembling Epeira. Clypeus height about twice 
 area MF; on one sido a ridgedlike elevation extending from the margin to the midfront 
 eyes. 
 
 Legs : Uniform glossy yellow, with slight dark annuli at the tips of the joints ; palps 
 uniform yellow ; mandibles with four large teeth on the exterior furrow ; long, soft bristles 
 on the apex ; color glossy yellow ; fang dark brown, and slightly waved upon the under 
 surface. 
 
 Abdomen : Ovate, dorsum evenly arched ; skin yellowish brown, covered with bright 
 yellow reticulations ; dorsal folium wide, with three marginal indentations ; color yellowish 
 
 1 Count Keyserling originally described the species under this name of Koch's, but a year later pro- 
 posed the name " brevis." 
 
268 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 brown, with blackish margin and lighter median band, and at the apex blackish, trans- 
 verse, interrupted lines. The venter shows a brownish, yellow band, extending from the 
 spinnerets to the epigynum ; the latter organ is placed about the middle of the abdomen, 
 and is a simple arch. 
 
 Male : (Fig. 10.) In size, color, and markings almost precisely resembles the female. 
 The lumpy appearance on the forehead and margin of the clypeus is a little more pro- 
 nounced. The middle group of eyes is almost a perfect square, instead of having the rear 
 a little wider, as in the female. One very long, strong tooth marks the angle of the 
 mandibles upon the inner furrow row, and at its base are three shorter, blackish teeth ; on 
 the same furrow there is a short, strong tooth near the base of the fang. The fang is 
 glossy brown, somewhat uneven on the exterior surface, and the middle point on the 
 interior is prolonged into a ■ blunt angle. The fangs, when folded, extend almost to the 
 maxilla?. The palps (10a) are long, the radial joint somewhat longer than the cubital ; the 
 digital bulb globular, the cymbium contracted in the middle, extending far beyond the 
 bulb, heavily covered with stiff bristles. From the base of the alveolus, on the upper side, 
 is a long, yellow projection, and from the apex of the bulb a blackish brown curved pro- 
 jection extends almost as far as the point of the cymbium. 
 
 Distribution : This species has been collected from Canada southward through New 
 England, New York, and Pennsylvania, as far as the District of Columbia. It will probably 
 be found throughout the entire Middle States and Atlantic Coast. 
 
 No. 114. Pachygnatha autumnalis Keyserling. Plate XXVI, Figs. 1, 2. 
 
 1883. Pachygnatha autumnalis, Keyserling, Neue Spinn. Amerik., v., 660; xxi., 10. 
 
 1884. Pachygnatha autumnalis, Emerton . . N. E. Ep., 337, xxxiv., 22 ; xl., 9. 
 1889. Pachygnatha autumnalis, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 553. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4.3 mm. ; cephalothorax, 2.3 mm. long, 1.1 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 2 mm. long, 1.3 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Oval, squarely truncate behind ; fosse an oval pit ; corselet elevated, 
 skin glossy, slightly pubescent, color blackish brown, with brownish yellow stripes on 
 either side of the median band and on the margin ; caput of like color, elevated ; the head 
 at the eye space prominently raised into a quadrate elevation, upon which the middle 
 group of eyes is placed. Sternum (lc) subtriangular in form, slightly longer than wide, 
 uniform yellowish brown color, scantily pubescent. Labium triangular, very wide at the 
 base, more than half the height of the maxilla;, which are longer than wide, convex on 
 the exterior, somewhat narrow at the rounded tip, and inclined toward each other. The 
 fangs, when folded, extend as far as the maxilla?. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad decidedly wider behind than in front, and the width as great as, 
 or even greater, than the front; MF somewhat smaller than MR, separated by about one 
 diameter; MF separated by 2 to 2.5 diameters. Side eyes contingent, upon tubercles, and 
 about equal in size ; space between MF and SF but little greater than that between MF. 
 The space between MR is greater than that between MR and SF. Front eye row almost 
 aligned, or slightly recurved, the longer rear row decidedly procurved. The appearance of 
 the eye space from the front shows MR elevated above SR, which stands out upon a lower 
 notch from the forehead. The clypeus is extremely high, at least three times the space 
 between MF. The side view of the cephalothorax (la) shows the quadrate elevation of the 
 eye space. 
 
 Legs : Legs and palps a uniform yellow. The mandibles glossy, dark brown ; about 
 1 mm. long. 
 
 Abdomen : Ovate ; dorsum evenly arched ; the folium a wide, glossy, brown belt, with 
 marginal indentations, about three in number ; in the middle an indented line of cretaceous 
 yellow ; a broad, interrupted band of yellowish white extends along the sides ; dorsal 
 surface reticulated. The ventral pattern is blackish brown, with marginal stripes of reticu- 
 lated, cretaceous yellow. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 2G9 
 
 Male: About the size of the female, which it closely resembles in form, color, and 
 markings. The eyes (2a) are arranged substantially as in the female, though the rear eyes 
 appear to be relatively somewhat larger. The front row is almost straight. The radial 
 joint of the palp (2b) is short, scarcely equaling in length the cubital. The digital joint is 
 rounded at the base, and very long. 
 
 Distribution : District of Columbia (Marx Collection). Keyserling's original description 
 was made from a specimen found by Dr. Marx in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The species 
 probably inhabits the Atlantic and Middle States. 
 
 No. 115. Pachygnatha xanthostoma C. Koch. Plate XXVI, Figs. 7, 8. 
 
 1845. Pachygnatha xanthostoma, C. Koch . . Die Arach., xii., p. 148, Figs. 1068, 1069. 
 1883. Pachygnatha xantfiostoma, Kbyseuling, N. Spinn. Amer., v., p. 659, pi. 21, Fig. 9. 
 1889. Pachygnatha xanthostoma, Marx . . . Catalogue, p. 553. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4.5 mm.; cephalothorax, 1.5 mm. long; abdomen, 3 mm. long, 
 1.8 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Cordate, rounded at the edges, well elevated in the centre ; corselet 
 grooves distinct ; cephalic suture well marked ; head elevated about corselet level, arched 
 upon the summit to the eye space; color brown, with lighter streakings upon the sides. 
 Sternum widest near the base, pointed like an arrow head towards the apex ; raised in the 
 middle. Color dark brown, with lighter median shade ; covered with short, rather stiff 
 hairs. Labium subtriangular, wide at the base, more than half the height of the maxilla?, 
 blackish brown color ; maxilla; elongate, longer than wide, convex externally, pointed 
 toward one another, the tips roundly truncate. Color yellowish brown. 
 
 Eyes : Ocular quad (7a) slightly elevated, the length somewhat greater than the rear 
 width ; wider behind than in front. MF somewhat smaller than MR, separated by 1.5 
 diameter; MR by 1.7 to 2 diameters. Side eyes upon low tubercles, nearly contingent; SF 
 larger than SR. Space between SF and MF about equal to the area of the latter, or 1.5 to 
 2 times the interspace of MF. The distance between SF and SR is slightly greater than 
 the interspace of SR. Front eye row recurved, rear row slightly recurved, and somewhat 
 longer ; the clypeus height about equals area MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; color uniform yellow to yellowish brown, without annuli ; palps 
 colored and armed as the legs ; mandibles brown, widest at the tips, which are cut with 
 an incline inwardly toward one another (7a) ; fang not reaching the maxillse ; teeth 3-4, 
 nearly uniform in size. 
 
 Abdomen : Oval ; the dorsum evenly arched. The dorsal folium with three to four 
 indentations; dark brown to yellow in color, outlined by black, and with a median blackish 
 band. The sides have an interrupted band of yellow, beautifully reticulated, followed lower 
 down by a dark brown belt, which touches the venter, which is a blackish band extending 
 between spinnerets and epigynum (7b), which is a simple atriolum. 
 
 Male : (Fig. 8.) From 3 to 3.5 mm. long, 1 closely resembling the female in' color, 
 form, and markings. The radial joint of palp (8b) is scarcely longer than the cubital, and 
 is less than half the length of the digital. A slight spur marks the dorsal apex of the 
 mandibles ; the teeth number 3-4, and are of nearly uniform size ; the fang has no decided 
 angular projection on the inferior surface. 
 
 Distribution : The examples from which the above description was made were found 
 in the neighborhood of Philadelphia. Dr. Marx has collected the species in Pennsylvania 
 and in the District of Columbia. It is probably common throughout the Eastern and 
 Middle United States. Mr. C. L. Koch described both male and female from specimens 
 collected in Pennsylvania. 
 
 1 The male of Koch's original description is, on the contrary, somewhat larger than the female, 
 instead of smaller, as here. 
 
270 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 No. 116. Pachygnatha Dorothea, new species. Plate XXVI, Figs. 3, 4. 
 
 Female: Total length, 4.3 mm.; cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 2 mm. long, 1.3 mm. wide. The single specimen in hand is much dried up, and the pro- 
 portion and markings of the abdomen are indistinct. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Ovate, truncated behind ; skin glossy, color brown ; fosse a low 
 circular pit ; grooves sufficiently distinct ; suture well marked ; caput somewhat elevated 
 above the corselet level ; the eye space not elevated. Sternum uniform reddish brown, 
 though somewhat lighter in the middle. The surface punctured. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad (3a), somewhat wider behind; the rear width about equal to the 
 length; eyes of the group nearly equal in size; MF divided by about 1.3 diameter; MR by 
 2 diameters. MF separated from SF by about twice the intervening space of MF. The 
 front eye row slightly recurved ; the longer rear row procurved. 
 
 Legs : Uniform yellow color, thickly covered with long, delicate bristles. The man- 
 dibles are yellowish brown, heavily clothed with long bristles at the edges. The mandibles, 
 viewed from in front, show on the upper exterior surface about one-third the distance 
 from the apex, a decided hump, so that the outline presents an obtuse angle (3a). This 
 feature distinguishes the species from others of the genus. The mandibles are widely 
 separated at the apex ; the superior furrow row has about four teeth. 
 
 Abdomen : The abdomen is ovate, the specimen too much shriveled to give the dorsal 
 folium with accuracy. The epigynum is located near the middle of the venter, and is a 
 decided arch, without scapus. The surface is extremely hairy. 
 
 Male: (Fig. 4.) 4 mm. long; the cephalothorax glossy brown, but showing a lighter 
 or yellowish shade on either side of the median line. The eyes are substantially as in the 
 female ; but those of the ocular quad somewhat more widely separated. The mandibles 
 (4a) are yellowish brown; widely separated at the tips; nearly straight, or with but a slight 
 concavity on the outer margin. The fang (4a) has a slight tooth on the interior, at about 
 the middle point. The digital joint of the palp (4b) is long; the radial joint slightly 
 longer than the cubital. 
 
 Distribution : The only two specimens of this genus which I possess were found in 
 the neighborhood of Philadelphia. I have named it in honor of Mrs. Dorothea Marx, the 
 devoted and helpful wife of Dr. George Marx, of Washington. 
 
 No. 117. Pachygnatha tristriata C. Koch. Plate XXVI, Fig. 6; Plate XXVIII, 1. 
 
 1845. Pachygnatha tristriata, C. Koch . Die Arach., xii., p. 145, Fig. 1046, male. 
 1883. Pachygnatha <n««r?'ata, Keyserlinq. Neue Spinn. Amer., v., p. 656; xxi., 8. 
 1889. Pachygnatha tristriata, Marx . . Catalogue, p. 553. 
 
 Female : Total length, 7 mm. ; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long, 1.5 mm. wide ; the abdomen, 
 3.5 mm. long, 2.3 mm. wide, narrowing at the apex to 1 mm.; length of mandible, 1.2 mm. 
 
 Cei'halothorax : Oval ; dark brown, with a glossy, leathery appearance ; corselet 
 groove distinct ; cephalic suture well marked ; fosse a narrow circular pit ; color, a warm 
 yellow to dark brown, with a median longitudinal band of brown, and lighter shade on 
 either side thereof. Sternum squarely truncate at the base, raised in the middle ; color 
 brown, with a lighter median band ; covered with short, soft pubescence. The labium is 
 yellowish, large, and wide at the base, obtusely triangular, dark brown in color ; the 
 maxillae yellowish brown, subcylindrical, much longer than wide. 
 
 Eyes : The ocular quad upon a high, squarish eminence, projecting forward and upward 
 from the face ; narrowest in front ; the rear width being greater than the length ; the eyes 
 on black bases, not greatly differing in size, but MF somewhat greater ; the side eyes are 
 upon tubercles, and propinquate ; SR smaller; SF separated from MF by a space about 1.4 
 to 1.3 greater than the area, or at least twice the intervening space of MF ; the distance 
 between SR and MR is somewhat greater than the above. The clypeus is extremely high, 
 the margin thereof being removed from MF by twice or more the area of MF. The front 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 271 
 
 row is recurved, the rear row procurved. The margin is swollen on either side of the 
 median line, just above the insertion of the mandibles. 
 
 Legs : 1, 2, 4, 3 ; uniform yellow, without spines, but with abundant, long, aculeate 
 bristles ; the palps are colored and clothed as the legs ; the mandibles are long, decidedly 
 curved, a warm yellow brown color, with three to four strong teeth, wide at the tips, which 
 are tufted with long bristles, the fang long, narrow, and slim. 
 
 Abdomen : An elongated oval, rounded at the base, narrowing to the spinnerets, which 
 are distal. The dorsal field is yellowish brown in color, with longitudinal, reticulated bands 
 of yellow along the margins, and a divided band of similar color along the median line. 
 The skin is soft, reticulated, and covered with soft, short pubescence. The venter has a 
 long, attenuated, yellowish band extending between the spinnerets, with blackish margins, 
 and the epigynum presents an arched atriolum, without a scapus, but somewhat swollen in 
 the centre. 
 
 Male: (PI. XXVIII., Fig. 1.) In size, form, and color the male resembles the female. 
 The abdomen is the same elongated oval, the length at least twice the width, relatively 
 longer than with the female. The folium, as with the female, is marked by broad mar- 
 ginal stripes of yellow on the side, bordered on either flank with interrupted lines of 
 blackish, and in the centre a broken band of yellowish, reticulated color ; the surface is 
 strongly pubescent. The fosse is a longitudinal oval slit. The eyes (la) are upon a strongly 
 elevated quad, the rear side of which is, relatively to the front, wider than with the 
 female. On the clypeus is a diagonal ridge, extending about half way from the margin to 
 the midfront eyes. The mandibles (lb) are long, convex on the apical half; the fang 
 somewhat curved, uneven on the exterior surface, and a strong, black, triangular projection 
 or tooth on the interior surface ; close to the base of the fang is a very long, blunt, curved 
 tooth. For palp see Fig. lc. 
 
 Distribution: Philadelphia, New York, Texas (Marx). Doubtless widely distributed 
 throughout the United States. 
 
 No. 118. Pachygnatha furcillata Kevserling. Plate XXVIII, Fig. 3. 
 
 1884. Pachygnatha furcillata, Kevserling . Neue Spinn. aus Amer., v., 662; xxi., 11. 
 1889. Pachygnatha furcillata, Marx .... Catalogue, p. 552. 
 
 Female: In the Marx collection there is one female specimen, identified by Keyser- 
 ling as of this species. Keyserling has distinguished it chiefly by the side outline of the 
 mandibles (Plate XXVIII., Fig. 3). The specimen is 5 mm. long, and resembles P. brevis 
 closely. The ocular quad appears a trifle wider in front than behind, instead of the 
 reverse, as in brevis; but I am inclined to think the two identical. 
 
 Distribution: The species (or variety) has been collected in Philadelphia and the 
 District of Columbia. 
 
 No. 119. Pachygnatha Curtisi, new species. Plate XXVI, Figs. 5, 5a-b. 
 
 Male: Total length, 5 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.5 mm. long by 1.5 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 3.5 mm. long by 1.3 mm. wide. General colors, dull yellow, mottled with black. The 
 spinous armature of this species shows a marked difference from its congeners; but the 
 characteristics are otherwise so distinctly of this genus that it is placed here. 
 
 Cepiialotiiorax : Cordate ; the fosse a conical pit ; corselet grooves distinct ; cephalic 
 suture well marked ; color yellow, with streakings of blackish brown along the grooves, 
 the suture, and on the base. The head is wide, quadrate, colored as the corselet, with 
 lighter yellow in front. Sternum nearly as wide as long, covered with gray bristles, black 
 along the margins, and muddy yellow in the centre. Labium subtriangular ; less than one- 
 half the height of the maxilla;, which are somewhat longer than wide ; subrectangular in 
 form, the tips roundly truncated, and wider than the rest of the organ. 
 
272 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad (5b) with little elevation; length greater than width, the front 
 slightly narrower than the rear. The eyes of the group subequal ; side eyes upon a low, 
 blockish tubercle; SF larger than SR, and nearly equal to MF, from which they are separated 
 by a space about twice that of the distance between MF. MF are separated by about 
 1 diameter, MR by 1.5. The front eye row is recurved, the rear row almost aligned. The 
 clypeus height about 1.5 diameter of MF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3; yellow, the joints with black median and apical annuli. Numerous 
 long, black spines, with black bases, which give the legs a mottled appearance, and long, 
 thin, aculeate bristles. The tibia of leg-II without any special clasping organs ; but on the 
 inside of the femur there is a more numerous row of spines. The mandibles are conical, 
 brownish, strong, widely separated at the tips. The fang (5c) strong, smoothly curved, 
 scarcely reaching to the maxillse when folded; the interior row of teeth numbers about 
 four. The palps are rather long; the digital joint (5d) but little longer than the radial; 
 the cubital still shorter. A strong spur issues from the base of the digital joint. 
 
 Abdomen : Rectangular ovate ; color cretaceous yellow, mottled with black ; strongly 
 pubescent; an irregular folium, formed principally by black hairs, marks the dorsum. 
 
 Distribution : Pacific Coast. I have three examples of the male of this species, 
 received from and dedicated to the late Mr. John Curtis, of Oakland, California. This 
 species, when first received, was placed by me with Pachygnatha, and as such figured here. 
 It now appears to me, especially from the legs, and narrow clypeus and maxilla?, to be 
 wrongly so placed. 
 
 The species of Pachygnatha are not easy to separate by striking characteristics. P. 
 brevis, which I have made the type, may be noted as the largest, by its bright colors, by 
 the lumpy and punctured appearance of the head. The male mandible has at the lower 
 interior angle (Plate XXVIII., 2) a long tooth, with three small teeth around its base. P. 
 Dorothea resembles brevis, but the female is distinguished by a blunt cone or hump on 
 the exterior of the mandible (Plate XXVI., 3a), and the male mandible has no such tooth 
 as in brevis. P. xanthostoma, female, is a rather smaller species, and the male may be 
 at once noted by a short, projecting, toothlike spur on the outer margin of the apex (Plate 
 XXVI., 8a). P. tristriata is at once separated by the abdominal markings of longitudinal 
 stripes ; by the longer oval of the abdomen, and the epigynum placed near the ventral 
 base, close to the gills, instead of near the middle, as with the above species. P. autum- 
 nalis is the smallest, has rather darker colors, and in both sexes a head much elevated, 
 and the side outline of mandible is nearly straight, instead of rounded. The central quad 
 of eyes is raised well up, the midrear pair above the vertex. The hump upon the man- 
 dibles of P. Dorothea is a good distinguishing mark. 
 
 Genus ULOBORUS, Latreille, 1806. 
 
 The species of this genus are distinguished by an oval cephalothorax, nearly as 
 wide in the anterior as the posterior part, whose sides round with nearly equal width to the 
 face. The corselet is high, well arched, but somewhat flattened upon the top ; the corselet 
 grooves distinct, the cephalic suture well marked. The head is wide, somewhat quadrate, 
 slightly elevated above the corselet. The sternum is much longer than wide, of about 
 equal width throughout, except at the apex. The labium is about half the length of the 
 maxillae, which are somewhat longer than wide. The genus is particularly distinguished 
 by its eyes, which can hardly be divided into the three groups characteristic of the 
 Orbitelarise, and appear to be arranged simply in two rows. The ocular quad has the mid- 
 front eyes upoji a rounded eminence, is much wider behind than in front ; the intervening 
 space between the sidefront and midfront eyes corresponds with that of Epeira ; the side 
 eyes present the most distinctive peculiarity, being widely separated, the intervening space 
 greater than that between the midfront and sidefront eyes. The front row of eyes is some- 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 
 
 273 
 
 what procurved, almost aligned ; the rear row decidedly recurved. The clypeus is compara- 
 tively low. The abdomen is a long ovate, in the typical species U. plumipes marked by 
 shoulder humps ; the dorsum arched, (he spinnerets distal, with an additional spinning 
 organ known as a cribellum. The legs are in length, 1,4,2,3, the first leg especially stout, 
 and, in all but the two final joints, relatively much more so than the other legs; the apex 
 of the tibia is marked in some species by a slight scopula or brushlike cluster of bristles. 
 The tibia of leg-IV is provided with a calamistrum in the female. Only one species 
 appears to be common in the United States ; but one other, U. geniculatus (zosis), has at 
 least a lodging place upon the Gulf Coast. The snare of the species is an orbweb, without 
 the ordinary viscid armature, for which is substituted the curled threads characteristic of 
 Hyptiotes and certain Clubionidae. 
 
 No. 120. Uloborus geniculatus (Oliver). 
 
 Plate XXVII, Figs. 1, 2. 
 
 1789. 
 1842. 
 1858. 
 1858. 
 1859. 
 1864. 
 1872. 
 1873., 
 1889. 
 1889. 
 1889. 
 
 Araneus geniculatus, Oliver . 
 Uloborus zosis, Walckenaer 
 Uloborus Latreillei, Thorell 
 Orithyia Williami, Blackwall 
 Uloborus domeslicus, Dolescha 
 Uloborus borbonicus, Vinson 
 Uloborus zosis, Koch, L. . . 
 Uloborus zosis, Thorell . . 
 Uloborus zosis, Marx .... 
 Uloborus geniculatus, Simon . 
 Uloborus zosis, Marx .... 
 
 Encycl. Method., ii., p. 214. 
 Apt. Ins., ii., p. 231, pi. xx., Figs. 1, 2. 
 Vet. Akad. Forh., xv., p. 197. 
 Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist, 3d ser., iii., p. 331. 
 ■j . Act. Soc. Sc. Ind. Neerl., v., p. 46, vii., 2. 
 Aran. Reunion, etc., p. 258, i., 3. 
 Arach. Austral., p. 221, pi. xix., 3. 
 Rag. Mai., etc., ii., p. 130. 
 Catalogue, p. 554. 
 Ann. Soc. Entom. France, p. 131. 
 Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., p. 99. 
 
 Female: Total length, 7 mm.; cephalothorax, 3 mm. long, 2 mm. wide ; abdomen 
 5 mm. long, 3.5 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax: Cordate, truncated, deeply indented at the base, rounded at the 
 margins of the corselet, and nearly as wide in the anterior as in the posterior part; 
 corselet well arched, but somewhat flattened on top ; fosse a conical pit ; corselet grooves 
 distinct; cephalic suture well marked; color yellow, with patches of brown on either side 
 of the face, and at base of caput ; head wide, somewhat quadrate, slightly elevated above 
 corselet. Sternum (lb) much longer than wide, of about equal width throughout, except at 
 the apex ; rounded in the middle ; dull yellow, covered with yellowish gray hairs ; labium 
 about half the length of the maxillae, narrow, subtriangular ; maxilla; somewhat longer than 
 wide, the tips compressed into an elongated triangle, and directed toward each other ; color 
 brown at the base, with yellowish tips. 
 
 Eyes : (la.) Ocular quad much wider behind than in front, and the length somewhat 
 greater than the rear width ; a slight longitudinal cleft separates the midfront eyes, which 
 are removed from one another by about a diameter or less ; MR somewhat less than MF, 
 separated by 1.5 to 2 diameters ; side eyes widely separated, the space between them as 
 great as that between MR and MF, which is equal to 1.3 the area of MF, or more than 
 twice the intervening space ; the distance between SR and MR about equals that between 
 MR; clypeus somewhat higher than area MF; front eye row procurved, the longer rear row 
 slightly recurved. The face is wide in front. 
 
 Legs: 1, 2, 4, 3 ; femora and tibia stout, but the two apical joints greatly diminished 
 in size ; color yellow, with broad apical annuli ; abundantly covered with gray and brown 
 bristles and hairs, and with short, dark spines ; the metatarsus of leg-IV is curved, and 
 provided on the inner and upper side with a calamistrum (Id). . 
 
 Abdomen : Ovate, wide and rounded at the base, much narrowed towards the spin- 
 nerets, which are distal ; color ashen brown or yellow, without any decided folium ; the 
 epigynum (lc) is without a scapus, and the thick, low atriolum lias two short subtriangular 
 projections, which are bowl shape or hollowed underneath. 
 
274 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 Male: 5 mm. long; in color and form resembling the female. The cephalothorax 
 is roundly oval, the summit of the corselet has two dark, brown bands, which run along 
 the cephalic suture ; on the sides are irregular bands of yellow, bordered beneath by brown, 
 and the margin of the corselet is yellow ; skin with gray pubescence. The ocular quad is 
 longer than wide, the rear wider than the front; MF are slightly larger than MR, the latter 
 about equal in size to SR. The eyes of the rear row are nearly equally divided one from 
 another, MR being slightly further apart. Of the front row the space between SF and MF 
 is about one-half greater than the distance between MF. SF are quite small, the smallest 
 eyes of the entire group. The first row of eyes is procurved ; the rear row is slightly 
 recurved. The palps are short; the digital bulb large, globular; the cymbium covered 
 thickly with strong, yellowish hairs. The legs are yellow, with dark brown apical and 
 median annuli ; length, 1, 4, 3, 2, the first pair much longer and stouter. The tibia: of 
 leg-I are slightly curved, thickened towards the apex, upon the summit and sides of which 
 are rows of strong, black spines; the other legs are armed with short, black spines; as in 
 the female, the two terminal joints are decidedly thinner than the others. 
 
 Distribution : The Gulf Coast of the United States and the AVest Indies. 
 
 No. 121. Uloborus plumipes (?) Lucas. Plate XXVII, Figs. 4, 5 ; XXVIII, Fig. 6. 
 
 \ 1842. Uloborus Americanus, Walcken'r* Ins. Apt., ii., p. 229; Abbot, G. S., No. 44, 45. 
 1845. Uloborus plumipes, Lucas .... Explor. de l'Algerie, Anim. Artie., i., 252; pi. 15, 
 
 Fig. 8. 
 1850. Phillyra mammeatu, Hentz* . . . B. J. S., vi., 25 ; Sp. U. S., 129, pi. 14, Fig. 16. 
 
 1850. Phillyra riparia, Hentz Ibid., v., Fig. 17. 
 
 1869. Uloborus plumipes, Canestrini & 
 
 Pavesi Archiv. p. la Zool. l'Anat. e la Fisiol., ser. ii., vol. ii. 
 
 1881. U loborus vitlosus, Keyherlinu* . N. Spinn. a. Amer., iii., Verb. Ges. Wien, 278, xi.,(>. 
 
 1888. Uloborus plumipes, Emerton . . N. E. Ep., Ciniflon., Trans. Conn. Acad., pi. xi., 1. 
 
 1889. Uloborus plumipes, McCook . . . Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork, I., II. 
 
 Dr. Marx, in his Catalogue, considers Uloborus Americanus as a good species and identical 
 with U. mammcata (Ilentz). The figure in Abbot's MSS. drawings, from which Walckenaer 
 described his species, certainly resembles in outline Hentz's drawing of U. (Phillyra) 
 mammeata rather than his figure of U. riparia (plumipes) ; but the front row of eyes is 
 more decidedly procurved. I am inclined to think that the two species are the same, and 
 are identical with U. plumipes Lucas. If so, Walckenaer's name should have priority. 
 Not having sufficient material to determine the point positively, I leave the name as above, 
 and place in the synonyma marked (*) the series corresponding most closely with U. 
 Americanus, as distinguished by Marx and Hentz. I believe, however, that it will prove 
 that we have but one species under the various names as above, and that the confusion in 
 names has been caused Tby the striking difference in appearance between the black forms 
 and the yellow ones, as fairly represented upon the figures in my plates. Perhaps it may 
 be concluded that these differences justify at least varietal names. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1.3 mm. wide; abdomen, 
 3.5 mm. long, 1.75 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : Oval, truncated at the base, the sides rounding with nearly equal 
 width to the face; corselet high behind, where it is raised into two low humps by the 
 parting of the median fosse, thence it slopes rather sharply to the base ; the head elevated ; 
 color blackish brown, covered with yellowish pubescence. Sternum (4a) cordate, inclined 
 to oval, longer than wide, of nearly equal width throughout except at the apex, elevated 
 in the centre; color blackish brown, with gray pubescence. Labium about half the height 
 of maxillae, width about equal to length, the tip triangular; maxilla; squarish, longer than 
 wide, truncate at the tips ; color of both labium and maxillaj yellow. 
 
 Eyes: Ocular quad elevated in front, much wider behind than in front, and length 
 greater than width ; MF smaller than MR, and divided by about one diameter, MR by two 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SrECIES. 275 
 
 diameters or more; side eyes widely separated, the space between them being at least half 
 greater than that which separates SF and MF (3b) ; the distance between SR and MR is 
 scarcely as great as that between MR; the front row distinctly procurved, the rear row 
 much recurved. 
 
 Legs: 1, 4, 2, 3; stout, especially at the femora of legs-I and IV; color yellow, with 
 brown and blackish brown median and apical annuli ; the femora almost completely dark- 
 ened ; the metatarsi long, and on the fourth leg (3d) curved and provided with a calamis- 
 trum. The legs have short pubescence and fine bristlelike spines; tibia-I is thickened and 
 has an apical brush, to which the species owes its name. The palps are colored and armed 
 as the legs. 
 
 Abdomen : An elongated oval, thickest at the base, which is bifid and overhangs the 
 cephalothorax ; it is there provided with two low shoulder humps ; the dorsum is arched 
 to the spinnerets, which are distal and provided with a cribellum (3e) ; the color is yellow 
 or cretaceous, reticulated and marked with blackish brown median stripes with divergent 
 branches to the sides, which are streaked with black and yellow. In some specimens 
 (Fig. 4) the colors appear to be reversed and the field black, while the folial markings are 
 yellow. The venter is a broad band of yellowish brown with an indented border of creta- 
 ceous, which surrounds in a broken line the spinnerets, which are yellow flecked with 
 brown; the epigynum (3c) shows two rounded conical projections from the atriolum of a 
 light yellow color, overhanging and projecting beyond the genital cleft. The male (Fig. 5) 
 is colored and marked like young females (Fig. 4). 
 
 Male: Total length, 2.5 to 3 mm. The cephalothorax is more roundly ovate than the 
 female. The eyes (PI. XXVIII, 6a) differ little in arrangement, but the front row rather 
 shorter relatively. The legs are yellow, femur-I being darker, and others with light 
 median and apical annuli underneath. The tibia of the first pair bearing upon the 
 upper surface a double row of spines on one side long and yellow, on the other shorter 
 and blackish, and eight to nine in number; other joints with a few yellow spines. The 
 two terminal joints are decidedly thinner than the others. The metatarsus is as long as 
 the tibia; the fourth pair of legs without calamistrum. The abdomen is without humps, 
 is an elongated oval, blackish in color, and the folium irregularly traced by long grayish 
 yellow hairs ; the entire surface is hairy. The color of the cephalothorax is dark brown, 
 with a median line of yellowish marked by long gray hairs. The palps are short, the 
 digital joint large, globular; the radial and cubital joints are of nearly equal length; a 
 short blunt spur projects outwardly from the humeral joint (PI. XXVIII, 6b) ; the cymbium 
 covered with reddish yellow hairs. (Marx Collection.) 
 
 Distribution: I have taken this spider in New England, Pennsylvania, and Ohio; 
 Hentz described it from Alabama, and I have various specimens received from the Pacific 
 Coast. It is probably distributed throughout the entire United States. 
 
 Genus HYPTIOTES, Walckenaer, 1833. 
 
 But one American species of this remarkable genus is known, whose characteristics are 
 so striking that it cannot be easily mistaken. The cephalothorax is an oval with steep 
 sides, truncated at the base, which shelves sharply downward from the fosse. The corselet 
 is overhung behind by the vaulted abdomen, and almost overshadowed in front by the 
 peculiar structure of the face. The sternum is cordate, decidedly longer than wide 
 widest at the base, with distinct sternal cones. The labium is small as compared with the 
 maxillae, compressed at the base and triangular at the tip, the length about half that of 
 the maxillae, which are somewhat longer than wide, compressed at tho stalk, and much 
 widened at the squarely truncate tips. The eyes are arranged in two rows, of which the 
 front is strongly procurved, and the rear row, at least 2.5 times as long as the front, is 
 slightly procurved. Tho two sidefront eyes are very small and placed close to the margin 
 
276 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 
 
 of the clypeus; the siderear eyes are much larger and are upon tubercles overhanging the 
 sides of the face, separated from the sidefront by a space greater than that which sepa- 
 rates them from the midrear. The other six eyes are placed far back upon the face. The 
 clypeus is wide. The legs are 1, 4, 2, 3; short, stout, I and II especially so; the fourth leg 
 is curved and provided with a calamistrum. The abdomen is oval, with highly arched 
 dorsum symmetrically covered with low conical humps on the margins, and rounded at 
 the base and apex, the latter overhanging the spinnerets which are provided with a cribel- 
 lum. The male resembles the female in general structure and color. The abdomen pre- 
 sents the same lumpy appearance, and is pubescent. The radial joint is stout, somewhat 
 curved ; the digital joint extremely long, canoe shaped, and complex. 
 
 No. 122. Hyptiotes cavatus (Hentz). Plate XXVII, Fig. 7. 
 
 1847. Cyllopodo, cavaia, Hentz J. B. S., v., 4GC; Sp. U. S., p. 104, xii., 3; xx., 21. 
 
 1875. Hyptiotes Americanus, AVilder . . Popular Science Monthly, Sept., p. 2 (The Tri- 
 angle Spider). 
 1884. Hyptiotes cavatus, Emerton . . . N. E. Ciniflonidse. Trans. Con. Acd. vii., 457 ; ii., 2. 
 1889. Hyptiotes cavatus, McCook . . . Amer. Spiders and their Spinningwork, Vol. I. 
 1889. Hyptiotes cavatus, Marx Catalogue, p. 553. 
 
 Female: Total length, 5 mm.; cephalothorax, 2 mm. long, 1 mm. wide; abdomen, 2.5 
 mm. long, 2 mm. wide. 
 
 Cephalothorax : An irregular oval, rounded at the margin, steep, truncated at the 
 base, which shelves sharply downward from the fosse, which is a semicircular indentation 
 upon the upper part of the incline; cephalic suture distinct, but the pecular structure of 
 this part of the body makes it somewhat difficult to distinguish between the head and the 
 corselet itself; color dark brown to blackish, with grayish yellowish pubescence. Sternum 
 (Fig. Cb) cordate, widest at the base; sternal cones distinct; color dull yellow, with grayish 
 white pubescence, especially at the edges; raised in the middle; the labium rounded at the 
 tip about half the height of the maxillae, which are obtusely triangular at the tips, as wide 
 as long; color dull yellow. 
 
 Eyes: Six of the eight placed far back upon the face; the ocular quad very wide in 
 the rear, narrow in front, and the sides little more than half the rear, presenting the 
 form of an isosceles triangle truncated at the apex ; MF separated by about one diameter, 
 SR by a space equal to about four times the area of MF ; side eyes as widely separated as 
 MR, SF extremely small and placed well to the front just over the outer edge of the 
 mandibles, about 2.5 diameters from the margins of the clypeus ; these eyes extremely 
 small, so much so that Hentz failed to observe them, and described the spider as having 
 only six eyes; SR much larger than SF, are indeed the largest of the entire group, located 
 at the extremities of the optical area upon the upper edge of the face, which they over- 
 hang. The clypeus is wide from the middle point to MF, being about three times the area 
 of the latter; the group of eyes thus described form two rows, of which the front row is 
 much procurved, the rear row slightly procurved; of the rear row the distance between 
 SR and MR is about one-third less than the space separating MR, and somewhat less than 
 the distance between SR and SF. 
 
 Legs: 1, 4, 2, 3; short, stout, especially I and II; abundantly clothed with bristles 
 and hairs, and with short spines; the tarsus with one Epeiroid claw; the metatarsus of 
 leg-I is curved, and provided along its exterior surface with a row of curved hairs known 
 as the calainistrum, which characterizes Uloborus and some species of Ciniflonida;, in this 
 respect uniting the Orbweavers with the Tubeweavers. The color is yellow or olive brown. 
 
 Abdomen: Oval; the dorsum highly but not evenly arched, curving downward to the 
 spinnerets, which are slightly overhung by the apex; on the base in front are two low 
 humps, and along the sides is a series of three low conical elevations, which give the 
 dorsum a roughened appearance; the color varies, is yellow or yellowish brown, streaked 
 
DESCRIPTION OF GENERA AND SPECIES. 277 
 
 with green or olive, and occasional patches of purple. The whole surface is reticulated, 
 and covered with yellowish hairs; the venter has a yellowish patch flanked with blackish 
 brown on either side, which encompasses the spinnerets and cribellum (fie), which are a 
 dull yellowish color ; the epigynum (Fig. Of) is a simple, wide, arched alriolum, without a 
 scapus, slightly projecting over the genital cleft. 
 
 Male: (Fig. 7.) Resembles the female in general structure and coloring, but is smaller, 
 being about 3 mm. in length. The abdomen presents the same lumpy appearance, and is 
 heavily covered with hairs. The palp (Fig. 7a) is peculiar in its conformation, the digital 
 bull) being very long, the cymbium canoe shaped, covered closely with hairs. 
 
 DISTRIBUTION: I have collected this species at various points from New England along 
 the Atlantic Coast southward ; in New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. I have specimens 
 as far to the northwest as Wisconsin (Professor Peckham), and Dr. Marx has specimens from 
 Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. It will probably be found to inhabit 
 the entire middle zone of the United States. It appears to prefer mountainous or hilly 
 regions, although not confined thereto. A favorite dwelling place is in or near pine woods. 
 
 By some oversight, which neither author nor printer can explain, the copy of the fol- 
 lowing species was lost, and omitted from its proper place. The error was not discovered 
 until the appropriate signature had been printed, and a description is inserted here. 
 
 No. 123. Cyclosa Caroli (Hentz). Plate XVII, Figs. 7, 8. 
 
 1850. Epeira Caroli, Hentz J. B. S., vi., p. 24; Sp. U. S., p. 138, xiv., 15. 
 
 1863. Epeira Caroli, Keyseri.ing . . . Orbitel., Sitz. D. Isis, Dresden, p. 137, vi., 17-18. 
 1889. Cyclosa Caroli, Marx Catalogue, p. 549. 
 
 Female: Total length, 7 mm.; cephalothorax, 2.2 mm. long, 1 mm. broad ; abdomen, 
 5 mm. long, 2.2 mm. broad, diminishing to about 1 mm. The cephalothorax is a rounded 
 oval; color dark brown. The legs and palps yellow, with brown median and apical annuli. 
 The abdomen has a grayish hue, with tinges of yellow ; is widest at the base, where it is 
 somewhat arched, and diminishes from about the middle into an extended caudal part, 
 which projects beyond the spinnerets nearly one-half the length of the abdomen. The 
 spinnerets are placed well beneath, at the apex of the subconical venter. 
 
 Male: (Fig. 8.) Total length, 4.5 mm. The cephalothorax is a rounded oval, almost 
 circular, slightly truncate at the base ; color reddish brown, with dark stripes passing from 
 the fosse to the margin; fosse a circular depression; caput slightly depressed, T>f darker 
 color than the cephalothorax ; face sufficiently wide. The ocular quad is somewhat longer 
 than broad, slightly narrower behind ; MP larger than SF, and separated by. about one 
 diameter; space between MF and SF but little larger than that between MF; side eyes on 
 tubercles; propinquate, about equal in size; front row recurved, rear slightly procurved. 
 
 The Legs are 1, 2, 4, 3 ; yellow, with broad brown annuli on the femora, which are 
 sufficiently stout, and apical and median annuli on the other joints. They are well pro- 
 vided with stout spines, especially on the tibia of leg-I and leg-II, the latter also slightly 
 curved inward. The abdomen, as in the female, is a grayish yellow, mottled with black. 
 The spinnerets are placed about the middle of the venter, and the apex of the abdomen 
 projecting beyond into a caudal part (8a). The palp (8b) is comparatively short, but the 
 digit large, subglobular, terminal bulb brown, cymbium yellow, covered with hairs. The 
 radial joint is short, compressed, scarcely more than half the length of the cubital joint, 
 which is yellow, and has projecting from it a long, brown spine, slightly curved towards 
 the point. The position from which Fig. 8b was drawn does not show the true relative 
 proportion of the radial and cubital joints. 
 
 Distribution: A female was taken by Hentz in Alabama; Dr. Marx collected a male 
 in the District of Columbia, and the description of Keyserling is from a female specimen 
 collected in New Granada, South America. This indicates distribution from the northern 
 belt of Southern United States to the northern belt of South American States. 
 
INDEX OF VOLUME III. 
 
 Abbot, Mr. John, 133, 178, 194, 199, 222, 242, 
 259, 260, 266; manuscript drawings, 134, 
 135, 173. 
 
 Abbotia, genus, 239. 
 
 Abbotia gibberosa, 240. 
 
 Abbotia maculata, 241. 
 
 Abbreviations, 124. 
 
 Abdomen, 126; cleansing of, 16. 
 
 Accidents to limbs, 116. 
 
 Acrosoma, genus, 212. 
 
 Acrosoma gracile, 212. 
 
 Acrosoma matronale (see Acrosoma rugosa), 
 212. 
 
 Acrosoma mitrata, 213. 
 
 Acrosoma reduviana, 213. 
 
 Acrosoma rugosa, 212. 
 
 Acrosoma sagittatum, 214. 
 
 Acrosoma spinea, 214. 
 
 Agalena labyrinthica, 128. 
 
 Agalena nsevia, 63, 65, 73. 
 
 Agricultural ant, 18. 
 
 Agrceca brunnea, 61 ; parasites on, 59. 
 
 Ainsley, Mr., 189. 
 
 Amphibious habits, 66. 
 
 Amputation of limbs, 116. 
 
 Anderson, Rev. W. F., 106. 
 
 Anelosimus social is, 39. 
 
 Angulata group, 175. 
 
 Angulata, the larger, 181. 
 
 Anthropomorphism, 49. 
 
 Ants, burrowing habits, 27. 
 
 Aranese, 132. 
 
 Aranei'dea, 132. 
 
 Architecture, comparative view of Tunnel- 
 weavers', 33 ; influenced by enemies, 75 ; 
 influenced by habit, 73; architectural 
 mimicry, 52. 
 
 Argiope argentata, parasite on, 56; described, 
 220. 
 
 Argiope argyraspis, 219. 
 
 Argiope avara, 222. 
 
 Argiope basilica, 244. 
 
 Argiope cophinaria, 60, 67, 68, 217, 243; mode 
 of cleansing, 17 ; parasites on, 58 ; moult- 
 ing, 96 ; weather habits, 79. 
 
 Argiope fasciata, 219. 
 Argiope fenestrinus, 220. 
 Argiope, genus, 216. 
 Argiope Marxii, 223. 
 Argiope riparia, 217. 
 Argiope transvera, 219. 
 Argyroepeira, genus, 81, 241. 
 Argyroepeira argyra, 243. 
 Argyroepeira hortorum, 242. 
 Argyroepeira venusta, 242. 
 Argyroneta, 24. 
 Argyroneta aquatica, 23. 
 Attoi'ds, 90. 
 Atriolum, 127. 
 Atrophy of old tissues, 120. 
 Attida;, 106. 
 Attus terrebratus, 103. 
 Atypus piceus, 27. 
 Ausserer, Professor, 128. 
 Australian spiders, 164. 
 
 Baby, young spiders, 68. 
 
 Banks, Mr. Nathan, 55, 153, 177, 247, 248, 
 
 249, 202. 
 Basilica spider, 38. 
 Bates, Mr., 27. 
 Becker, M., 198. 
 Bell, Mr. H. H. J., 51. 
 Bermuda spiders, 84. 
 Bertkau, 69, 70, 128. 
 Bignell, Mr. J. Carter, 52, 53. 
 Blackwall, John, 23, 94, 95, 101, 106, 117, 118, 
 
 128, 137, 246. 
 Blaisdell, Dr. Frank, 7, 152, 174, 183, 198, 
 
 225, 243. 
 Blood ducts, 131. 
 Blood, spider, 110. 
 Body parasites, 54. 
 Bon, M., 84. 
 
 Bonsall, Miss Elizabeth P., 7. 
 Bowker, Colonel, 43. 
 Brazilian spiders, 254. 
 Brown, Professor Ulysses, 257. 
 Burgess, Mr. Edward, 8, 182. 
 Burgessia, subgenus, 182. 
 
 (278) 
 
279 
 
 Burrowing habits of Lycosa, 25 ; 
 
 spider, 26. 
 Burrowing spiders, 102. 
 
 of Turret 
 
 California spiders, 74, 243. 
 
 Calvert, Mr. P. P., 23. 
 
 Cambridge, Rev. O. Pickard, 52, 133, 160, 190, 
 191, 192, 199, 202, 203, 205, 242, 249, 250, 
 257. 
 
 Campbell, Mr. F. M., 128. 
 
 Cannibalism, 90, 94. 
 
 Carepalxis, genus, described, 207. 
 
 Carepalxis tuberculifera, described, 207. 
 
 Carpenter ants, 27. 
 
 Carribean Sea spiders, 156. 
 
 Caruthers, Mr. William, 135. 
 
 Cave spiders, 246. 
 
 Central America spiders, 191, 243. 
 
 Cephalothorax, 125. 
 
 Ceroid ia funobris, 216. 
 
 China spiders, 255. 
 
 Chiraianthium nutrix, 69. 
 
 Church spiders, 83. 
 
 Classification of Orbweavcrs, 132. 
 
 Cleanliness of spiders, 15. 
 
 Clerck, Professor C, 137. 
 
 Clubionidse, 112, 273. 
 
 Clypeus, 125. 
 
 Cobwebs in houses, 83. 
 
 Cochlear, 127. 
 
 Cocoon life, 90. 
 
 Cocooning, 25, 36, 46, 60, 62, 102. 
 
 Cocooning of parasites, 54. 
 
 Cocoons, 38, 39, 41, 45, 76. 
 
 Cocoons, winding silk, 88. 
 
 Collett, General, 52. 
 
 Color in spiders, 50, 57, 105, 106, 109. 
 
 Color mimicry, 47. 
 
 Combing, 16. 
 
 Combs of spiders, 15. 
 
 Communities, spider, 35, 42. 
 
 Contrivance in snares, 49. 
 
 Cotton for lining nest, 44. 
 
 Counterpoise in web, 66. 
 
 Courtship of spiders, 70, 106. 
 
 Cresson, Mr. E. T., 54, 50, 02, (>:!. 
 
 Cteniza ealifornica, 29, 31, 33, 74, 76; Tube- 
 weavers, 102. 
 
 Curtis, Mr. John L., 54, 158, 174, 183, 260, 
 272. 
 
 Cyclosa, genus, 224. 
 
 Cyclosa bifurca, 227. 
 
 Cyclosa Caroli, 277. 
 
 Cyclosa caudata, 224. 
 
 Cyclosa conica, 225. 
 
 Cyclosa Thorelli, 228. 
 Cyclosa turbinata, 224. 
 Cyclosa Walckenaerii, 226. 
 Cyllopoda cavata, 175, 270. 
 Cymbium, 129. 
 Cyrtarachne bicurvata, 197. 
 Cyrtarachne cornigera, 197. 
 Cyrtophora, genus, 235. 
 Cyrtophora bifurca, 227. 
 Cyrtophora conica, 225. 
 Cyrtophora tuberculata, 236. 
 
 Dall, Professor, 134. 
 
 Dangers to spiders, 104. 
 
 Darwin, Charles, 35. 
 
 Davidson, Dr. A., 56, 152, 172, 183, 198. 
 
 De Azara, Don Felix, 83. 
 
 Deformation of limbs, 117. 
 
 De Geer, 253, 256. 
 
 Development, 107, 120; in architecture, 33; 
 
 of new limb, 123. 
 Dews brushed away, 10. 
 Dictyna philoteichous, 105. 
 Dictyna volupis, parasites on, 58. 
 Disjonval, Quatremer, 77. 
 Diurnal spiders, 71. 
 Dolichoscaptus Latastei, 34. 
 Dolomedes, 66, 94. 
 Dolomedes fimbriatus, 24. 
 Dolomedes sexpuntatus, 23. 
 Domicile spiders, 15. 
 Doors of nests, 45. 
 Dragon flies, 23. 
 Drassus lapidocolens, 52. 
 Drexel, Mr. Anthony, 249. 
 Drexelia, genus, 248. 
 Drexelia directa, 249. 
 Drinking habits, 22. 
 Duges, M., 128. 
 Dying of spiders, 107. 
 
 Eggs, spider, 90, 99, 127. 
 
 Eigenmann, Mrs. Rosa, 152, 172, 183, 198, 222, 
 
 260. 
 Emerton, J. H., 134, 206. 
 Enemies of spiders, 63, 75, 101. 
 Environment, influence of, 71. 
 Epeira, genus, described, 91 ; 112, 192. 
 Epeira americana, 223. 
 Epeira anastera, described, 172. 
 Epeira angulata, 58, 182, 186. 
 Epeira angulata, group of, 175. 
 Epeira arabesca, 00; described, 148. 
 Epeira arenata, described, 200. 
 Epeira argentata, 220. 
 
280 
 
 Epeira balaustina, described, 155. 
 
 Epeira baltimoriensis, 169. 
 
 Epeira Bandelieri, 3G. 
 
 Epeira basilica, described, 244. 
 
 Epeira beccarii, 64, 65. 
 
 Epeira Benjamina, 66; described, 147. 
 
 Epeira bicentenaria, 186. 
 
 Epeira bispinosa, described, 180. 
 
 Epeira bivariolata,, 156, 159. 
 
 Epeira bivittata, 178. 
 
 Epeira bombycinaria, 172. 
 
 Epeira Bonsallae, 175; described, 179. 
 
 Epeira bucardia, described, 183. 
 Epeira calopbylla, 237. 
 
 Epeira candicans, 146. 
 
 Epeira carbonaria, described, 157. 
 
 Epeira carbonarioides, described, 158. 
 
 Epeira Caroli, 277. 
 
 Epeira caudata, 224. 
 
 Epeira cavatica, parasites on, 58 ; described, 
 
 185. 
 Epeira cerasia?, 194. 
 Epeira cinerea, 185. 
 Epeira, cocoons of, sociable, 37. 
 Epeira conchlea, 174. 
 Epeira conspicellata, 143. 
 Epeira cophinaria, 217. 
 Epeira cornuta, described, 140. 
 Epeira cornuta-strix, 140. 
 Epeira corticaria, described, 176. 
 Epeira cucurbitina, 53; described, 149. 
 Epeira deludens, 249. 
 Epeira diademata, 60, 182; described, 188; 
 
 parasites on, 58. 
 Epeira directa, 249. 
 Epeira displicata, described, 150. 
 Epeira domiciliorum, 147. 
 Epeira eustala, described, 172. 
 Epeira eustalina, 174. 
 Epeira fasciata, 219. 
 Epeira foliata, described, 154, 173. 
 Epeira forata, described, 165, 182. 
 Epeira fusca, 246. 
 Epeira gemma, described, 182. 
 Epeira gibberosa, 240. 
 Epeira globosa, 71, 170. 
 Epeira hebes, 173. 
 Epeira Hentzii, 147. 
 Epeira hortorum, 242. 
 Epeira insularis, 143. 
 Epeira iris, 194. 
 Epeira Ithaca, described, 152. 
 Epeira juniperi, 175 ; described, 167. 
 Epeira labyrinthea, 42, 65, 71, 80, 127; de- 
 scribed, 171. 
 
 Epeira linteata, 175, 182; described, 176. 
 
 Epeira marmorea, 153 ; described, 143. 
 
 Epeira Mayo, 175; described, 179. 
 
 Epeira miniata, described, 177, 213. 
 
 Epeira mormon, described, 164. 
 
 Epeira nepliiloides, described, 190. 
 
 Epeira Nordmanni, described, 184. 
 
 Epeira Paciflcaj, described, 180. 
 
 Epeira Packardii, 157. 
 
 Epeira parvula, 172. 
 
 Epeira patagiata, described, 138. 
 
 Epeira Peckhamii, described, 189. 
 
 Epeira Pegnia, described, *70. 
 
 Epeira placida, described, 153. 
 
 Epeira pratensis, described, 142. 
 
 Epeira prompta, 173. 
 
 Epeira punctigera, described, 163. 
 
 Epeira radiosa, 257. 
 
 Epeira ravilla, 156; described, 161. 
 
 Epeira reptilis, described, 165. 
 
 Epeira reticulata, 175. 
 
 Epeira riparia, 217. 
 
 Epeira rubella, 249. 
 
 Epeira rugosa, 212. 
 
 Epeira sclopetaria, described, 137. 
 
 Epeira scutulata, 178. 
 
 Epeira silvatica, 188. 
 
 Epeira similis, 237. 
 
 Epeira spinea, 214. 
 
 Epeira spinigera, described, 191. 
 
 Epeira stellata, 193. 
 
 Epeira strix, 55, 71, 140. 
 
 Epeira tauricornis, 203. 
 
 Epeira tetragnathoides, 249. 
 
 Epeira Thaddeus, described, 169. 
 
 Epeira Theisii, described, 166. 
 
 Epeira tranquilla, described, 162. , 
 
 Epeira triaranea, 170. 
 
 Epeira trifolium, 46, 51, 72, 80, 145. 
 
 Epeira trivittata 80, 148. 
 
 Epeira vertebrata, 66, 79; described, 151. 
 
 Epeira verrucosa, 120, 199, 200. 
 
 Epeira volucripes, described, 162. 
 
 Epeira Wittfeldse, described, 168. 
 
 Epigynum, 125, 127. 
 
 Eucta, genus, 266. 
 
 Eucta caudata, 266. 
 
 Eucta lacerta, 266. 
 
 Eugnatha, genus, 264. 
 
 Eugnatha pallida, 265. 
 
 Eugnatha vermiformis, 264. 
 
 European spiders, 103. 
 
 Evolution, 35, 50, 61. 
 
 Excreta, retention of, 18 ; removed carefully, 18. 
 
 Eyes, 109, 124. 
 
281 
 
 Fabricius, 254, 255. 
 
 Fangs, used in toilet, Hi. 
 
 Feeding habits, 23, 71. 
 
 Feet, cleansing, 16. 
 
 Fertilization, 129. 
 
 Fish killed by spider, 66. 
 
 Flower mimicry, 51. 
 
 Food, 91, 105. 
 
 Food capturing, 48. 
 
 Forbes, Mr. Henry 0., 48, 49. 
 
 Foundation lines, mending, 73. 
 
 Fox, Dr. W. H., 55. 
 
 Fox, William J., 63. 
 
 Fraternity in spiders, 35. 
 
 Gabb, Professor William H., 156, 201, 222. 
 
 Gallapagos Islands, 152. 
 
 Ga8teracantha, genus, described, 209. 
 
 Gasteracantha cancriformis, described, 211. 
 
 Gasteracantba mama, described, 210. 
 
 Gasteracantha pallida, described, 209. 
 
 Gasteracantha preciosa, described, 211. 
 
 Gautier, M., 88. 
 
 Gea, genus, described, 208. 
 
 Gea heptagon, described, 208. 
 
 Gentry, Dr. Alan, 24. 
 
 Gentry, Mr. Thomas, 155, 194, 232. 
 
 Glandular cells, 130. 
 
 Gregarious habits, 43. 
 
 Habits, general harmony of, 17; influencing 
 
 spinningwork, 74. 
 Habrocestum splendens, 106. 
 Hsematodocha, 129, 130. 
 
 Hairs, 110, 111; dressing, 16; origin of, 123. 
 Harford, Mr., 171. 
 Hatching eggs, 30. 
 Hayti spiders, 180. 
 Heineken, Dr. C, 116. 
 Hentz, Professor, 134, 137, 155, 219, 244, 250, 
 
 261. See Frontispiece. 
 Hentzia, genus, 244. 
 Hentzia basilica, 244. 
 Heredity, 61. 
 
 Heteropota venatoria, 118. 
 Histology, 108. 
 Housekeeping, spider, 18. 
 House spiders, 83. 
 Howard, Professor Orson, 55, 56, 57, 58, 60, 
 
 146, 151, 226. 
 Huntsman spider, 118. 
 Hymenoptera, 42, 63. 
 Hymenopterous parasites, table of, 58. 
 Hyptiotes, genus, 275. 
 
 Hyptiotes Americanus, 276. 
 Hyptiotes cavatus, 276. 
 
 Ichneumonida:, 54, 101. 
 
 Immersion of spiders, 23. 
 
 rncubating chamber, 36. 
 
 India, spiders of, 52, 64. 
 
 Industrial insects, 44; mimicry, 50; uses of 
 
 spider silk, 83. 
 Insect memory, 47. 
 Intellect of spiders, 45. 
 Intelligence of spiders, 44, 52, 60, 74. 
 
 Java, spiders of, 49. 
 
 Jones, Mr. John Matthew, in Bermuda, 84. 
 
 Kaira, genus, described, 202. 
 
 Kaira alba, described, 202. 
 
 Key selling, Count, 133, 159, 162, 199, 227, 
 
 248, 257, 267, 268, 271. 
 Kincaid, Mr. Trevor, 248. 
 Koch, Dr. C, 208, 245, 251, 267, 269, 270. 
 Koch, Dr. Ludwig, 207, 219. 
 
 Labrador spiders, 260. 
 
 Labulla inconstans, 54. 
 
 Labyrinth spider, 64. 
 
 Larinia, genus, 247. 
 
 Larinia borealis, 247. 
 
 Larinia Defouri, 249. 
 
 Larinia directa, 249. 
 
 Larinia nigrifoliata, 165. 
 
 Laterigrades, 48, 106. 
 
 Latreille, 246, 251, 272. 
 
 Leach, Mr., 250, 254, 255. 
 
 Legs, armature of, 15, 95; deformation, 117; 
 
 loss of, 104; origin of, 122. 
 Leidy, Professor Joseph, 134. 
 Lewis, Professor H., 134. 
 Lineweavers, 102. 
 Linnajus, 255, 259. 
 Linyphia communis, 58, 97. 
 Lizard spider, 266. 
 Location, sense of, 46. 
 Lost limbs, 118. . 
 Lungs, 109. 
 
 Lycosids, 24, 98, 100, 112, 114. 
 Lycosa arenicola, 20, 25, 44, 92. 
 Lycosa making trapdoor nest, 31. 
 Lycosa rurestris, 129. 
 Lycosa scutulata, 46. 
 Lycosa tigrina, 20, 25, 69, 70, 103; burrowing 
 
 habits of, 24, pi. xxx. 
 
282 
 
 Mahadeva, 199. 
 
 Nocturnal habits, 71, 75. 
 
 Mahadeva verrucosa, 200. 
 
 Nomenclature, 124, 133. 
 
 Malaysian spiders, 64. 
 
 
 Male spiders, 39, 70, 105, 128, 131. 
 
 Oliver, M., 273. 
 
 Mandibles, used for cleaning, 15. 
 
 Orbitelarise, defined, 132. 
 
 Manufacture of spider silk, 86. 
 
 Orbweavers, 64, 95, 102, 117. 
 
 Marx, Dr. George, 54, 133, 134, 137, 151, 155, 
 
 Orcutt, Mr. S. R., 172, 183, 198, 222. 
 
 160, 185, 186, 188, 189, 198, 199, 210, 212, 
 
 Ordgarius, genus, described, 197. 
 
 222, 230, 231, 244, 245, 248, 256, 257, 269, 
 
 Ordgarius bisaccatus, described, 198. 
 
 277. 
 
 Ordgarius cornigerus, described, 197. 
 
 Marx, Mrs. Dorothea, 270. 
 
 Orithyia Williami, 273. 
 
 Marxia, genus, described, 192. 
 
 Ornithoscatoi'des decipiens, 48. 
 
 Marxia grisea, described, 195. 
 
 Oscillation of web, 67. 
 
 Marxia moesta, described, 196. 
 
 Oviduct, 127. 
 
 Marxia nobilis, described, 194. 
 
 Ovipositing, 37, 61 ; method of parasites, 52. 
 
 Marxia stellata, 193. 
 
 
 Maternal ingenuity, 25 ; instinct, 53. 
 
 Pachygnatha, genus, 267. 
 
 Maternity, 41, 90, 94 ; community in, 38. 
 
 Pachygnatha autumnalis, 268, 272. 
 
 Memory, 46, 47. 
 
 Pachygnatha brevis, 267, 272. 
 
 Mending snares, 71. 
 
 Pachygnatha Curtisi, 271. 
 
 Menge, Professor, 128, 224, 259. 
 
 Pachygnatha Dorothea, 270, 272. 
 
 Meta, genus, 245. 
 
 Pachygnatha furcillata, 271. 
 
 Meta argyra, 243. 
 
 Pachygnatha, species, how distinguished, 272. 
 
 Meta fusca, 246. 
 
 Pachygnatha tristriata, 270, 272, 267. 
 
 Meta Menardi, 246. 
 
 Pachygnatha xanthostoma, 269, 272. 
 
 Mexican spiders, 243. 
 
 Packard, Professor, 158. 
 
 Mimicry, 30, 48, 49, 76; of architecture, 52; 
 
 Palps, armature of, 15. 
 
 of color, 47 ; of flowers, 51 ; of site, 75. 
 
 Palps, male, 128. 
 
 Misumena vafla, 47, 50. 
 
 Panama spiders, 180. 
 
 Moggridge, Mr., 30, 34, 52. 
 
 Paraguay spiders, 83. 
 
 Money spinners, 82. 
 
 Parasite larva, 55. 
 
 Moulting habits, 90, 91. 
 
 Parasites of body, 54. 
 
 Moulting, methods of, summary, 107. 
 
 Parasites on spiders, habits summarized, 57. 
 
 Muscles, 113, 122. 
 
 Parasitism, 52. 
 
 Muybridge, Edward, 67. 
 
 Pardosa luteola, parasites on, 59. 
 
 Mygale, moulting, 99. 
 
 Patching webs, 73. 
 
 Mygalidae, 112; burrowing habits, 27; toilet 
 
 Peckham, Professor George W., and Eliza- 
 
 habits, 17. 
 
 beth G, 105, 106, 133, 141, 158, 171, 172, 
 
 
 174, 189, 194, 225, 241, 264, 277. 
 
 Nemesia, 33. 
 
 Pepsis formosa, 75. 
 
 Nephila, genus, 250. 
 
 Periodicity, of regeneration, 119 ; of moult- 
 
 Nephila clavipes, 83, 252, 255. 
 
 ing, 100. 
 
 Nephila concolor, 256. 
 
 Phidippus johnsonii, 106. 
 
 Nephila fasciculata, 253, 255. 
 
 Phidippus morsitans, parasites on, 59. 
 
 Nephila maculata, 254. 
 
 Phidippus opifex (McCook), 43. 
 
 Nephila plumipes, 87, 251. 
 
 Philadelphia, spiders of, 78. 
 
 Nephila Vespucea, 252. 
 
 Phillyra mammeata, 274. 
 
 Nephila Wilderi, 87, 251, 253. 
 
 Pholcus phalangioides, 67. 
 
 Nephila Wistariana, 252. 
 
 Physiology of moulting, 109, 114. 
 
 Neriena longipalpis, 23. 
 
 Pigment patches, 51. 
 
 Nesting habit, in common, 39; entering nest, 
 
 Pliny, on spider weather prophets, 77. 
 
 74. 
 
 Pococke, Mr. R. I., 135. 
 
 Nests of Trapdoor spider, 30, 31. 
 
 Poison, 68; effects of, 69; gland, 112; insect 
 
 New York Sun, 88. 
 
 effects of, 101. 
 
 Niantic, Conn., 72. 
 
 Pollock, Mr., 92. 
 
283 
 
 Polysphincta, 54. 
 
 Singa Listerii, 231. 
 
 Polysphincta dictynse, 55. 
 
 Singa maculata, 235. 
 
 Polysphincta tuberosa, larva of, 53. 
 
 Singa maura, 234. 
 
 Pompillidso, 63. 
 
 Singa Mollybyrnifi, 229. 
 
 Popular superstitions, 81. 
 
 Singa nigripes, 232. 
 
 Portulse, of epigynum, 127. 
 
 Singa rubella, 230. 
 
 Poteat, Mr. W. L., 21. 
 
 Singa variabilis, 233. 
 
 Predicting weather from spider habits, 77. 
 
 Skin, 104; forming anew, 109. 
 
 Prey, capturing, position in, 65 ; methods of 
 
 Slosson, Mrs. A. Trumbull, 248. 
 
 seeking, 49. 
 
 Smith, Mrs. L., 146, 171, 172, 198, 260. 
 
 Priority, law of, 134. 
 
 Snares, mending of, 71. 
 
 Prosthesima furcata, parasites on, 59. 
 
 Social habits, 35. 
 
 Protective habits, 67, 102. 
 
 Social Theridioids, 39. 
 
 Pugnacity in males, 37. 
 
 South America, spiders of, 36, 250. 
 
 Purseweb spider, cleanliness of, 21. 
 
 Sparassus smaragdalus, 106. 
 
 
 Species, perpetuation of, 90 ; use of, 95. 
 
 Rafting spider, 24. 
 
 Spermathecae, 127. 
 
 Rain, influence on spinningwork, 80; effects 
 
 Spiderlings, 91. 
 
 of, 91. 
 
 Spinning habits, relations to parasitism, 60 ; 
 
 Reasoning in spiders, 45. 
 
 spinning silk, 86. 
 
 Reaumur, M., on spider silk, 85. 
 
 Spinningwork, Orbweavers, 71. 
 
 Receptaculum seminis, 130. 
 
 Steatoda borealis, 55. 
 
 Recognition, methods of, 40. 
 
 Still bers, Mr., 89. 
 
 Reeling silk from spiders, 86, 87. 
 
 Stothis astuta, 34. 
 
 Regeneration of lost organs, 116, 120. 
 
 Submergence of spiders, 24. 
 
 Repairing webs, 72. 
 
 Sundcvall, Mr., 132, 267. 
 
 Reproduction of organs, 116. 
 
 Superstitions concerning spiders, 81; in the 
 
 Riley, Professor C. V., 252. 
 
 Netherlands, Connecticut, Ireland, Ger- 
 
 Russia, spiders of, 31. 
 
 many, 82. 
 
 
 Survival, struggles for, 61. 
 
 Sailing spiders, 264. 
 
 Swan's Island spiders, 253. 
 
 Saitis pulex, parasites on, 59. 
 
 Swaying the body, 67. 
 
 Saltigrades, 43, 46. 
 
 Swiss spider, 106. 
 
 San Domingo spiders, 201. 
 
 
 Savignia frontata, 23. 
 
 Tarantula, 98, 104, 107 ; toilet habits, 17 ; bur- 
 
 Savigny and Audouin, 264. 
 
 rowing and feeding habits, 28. 
 
 Scapus, 127. 
 
 Tarantula hawk, 75. 
 
 Schimkevitch, W., 110. 
 
 Tarentula opifex, 31. 
 
 Scotland, spiders of, 42. 
 
 Tegenaria medicinalis, 73, 98. 
 
 Secretiveness, 27. 
 
 Tegulum, 130. 
 
 Sedentary spiders, 102. 
 
 Tendon of foot, 114. 
 
 Segestria, 129. 
 
 Territelarioe, 33, 94. 
 
 Segestria canities, tubeweaving webs, 38. 
 
 Termeyer, Abbe, 85. 
 
 Self amputation, 117. 
 
 Tetragnatha, genus, 258. 
 
 Shamrock spiders, 18, 72 ; housekeeping hab- 
 
 Tetragnatha argyra, 243. 
 
 its, 19. 
 
 Tetragnatha Banksi, 262. 
 
 Sickness of spiders, 101. 
 
 Tetragnatha caudata, 266. 
 
 Silk, spider glands, 114 ; indu^ry, 83, 84 ; 
 
 Tetragnatha elongata, 260, 263. 
 
 lining burrows, 33; how prepared from 
 
 Tetragnatha extensa, 259, 263. 
 
 cocoons, 89; sources of, 84; spinning, 86. 
 
 Tetragnatha fimbriata, 260. 
 
 Simon, M. Eugene, 9, 27, 34, 36, 38, 39, 41, 42, 
 
 Tetragnatha fiuviatilis, 260. 
 
 76, 133, 235, 247, 248, 249. 
 
 Tetragnatha fulva, 260. 
 
 Singa, genus, 229. 
 
 Tetragnatha grallator, 260. See T. elongata. 
 
 Singa conica, 225. ' 
 
 Tetragnatha Illinoisensis, 260. 
 
 Singa Keyserlingi, 230. 
 
 Tetragnatha laboriosa, 262. 
 
284 
 
 Tetragnatha lacerta, 266. 
 
 Uloborus villosus, 274. 
 
 Tetragnatha obtusa, 259. 
 
 Uloborus zosis, 273. 
 
 Tetragnatha pallida, 265. 
 
 
 Tetragnatha versicolor, 250. 
 
 Venezuela spiders, 36. 
 
 Tetragnatha violacea, 260. 
 
 Verrucosa, genus, described, 199. 
 
 Theridioids, 94. 
 
 Verrucosa arenata, described, 200. 
 
 Theridioids social, 39. 
 
 Verrucosa unistriata, described, 201. 
 
 Theridioid spiders, 54. 
 
 Vinson, M., 273. 
 
 Theridiosoma, genus, 257. 
 
 Vital endurance, 23. 
 
 Theridiosoma gemmosum, 257. 
 
 Volitional color changes, 51. 
 
 Theridiosoma radiosum, 257. 
 
 
 Theridium serpentinum, cocoons, 38. 
 
 Wagner, Mr. Waldemar, i), 31, 33, 90, 94, 95, 
 
 Theridium spirale, parasites on, 58. 
 
 100, 103, 105, 109, 114, 117, 121, 130, 203. 
 
 Theridium tepidariorum, 81. 
 
 Wagneria, genus, described, 203. 
 
 Thirst, mode of quenching, 22. 
 
 Wagneria tauricornis, 204. 
 
 Thomisoi'ds, 48, 103. 
 
 Walckenaer, Baron, 133, 173, 178, 194, 252, 
 
 Thompson, Miss Estelle, 29, 74, 76. 
 
 253, 254, 258, 266, 275. 
 
 Thorell, Professor T., 9, 128, 129, 133, 134, 
 
 Wallace, A. R, 48. 
 
 184, 216, 222, 259, 260. 
 
 Walsingham, Lord, 43. 
 
 Tiger spiders, 45, 70; toilet manners, 20. 
 
 Wasp pursuing spider, 63. 
 
 Timber, preferences of spiders for, 83. 
 
 Wasps, memory of, 47. 
 
 Titus, Mr. Walter, 74, 76. 
 
 Water habits, 23. 
 
 Toilet habits, 15 ; implements, 15, 16. 
 
 Weather prognostications, 77. 
 
 Townsend, Mr. C. H., 9, 152, 156, 211, 212, 
 
 Weather, relation to spinningwork, 78. 
 
 222, 227, 253, 254. 
 
 Web, eaten, 20; mode of cleansing viscid 
 
 Transforming, insects, dangers, 23. 
 
 beads, 20. 
 
 Trapdoormaking Lycosid, 31. 
 
 Webster, Mr. F. M., 47, 49, 50. 
 
 Trapdoor spiders, building habits, 52 ; bur- 
 
 Welsh, Mr. Francis R., 63, 66, 69, 117. 
 
 rowing habits, 29, 74. 
 
 West India spiders, 274. 
 
 Treat, Mrs. Mary, 20, 25, 26, 45, 70, 92, 102, 
 
 Wilder, Professor B., 68, 86, 251, 276. 
 
 186. 
 
 Wistar, General Isaac J., 252. 
 
 Treviranus, 128. 
 
 Wittfeld, Miss Anna, 168. 
 
 Trochosa, 90, 100, 107, 112, 118. 
 
 Wixia, genus, described, 205. 
 
 Trochosa singoriensis, 31, 105. 
 
 Wixia eetypa, 205. 
 
 Tube weavers, 61. 
 
 Wood, Rev. J. G., 78. 
 
 Tubular nest, 64. 
 
 Workman, Messrs. Thomas and M. E., 9, 64, 
 
 Tunnelweavers, habits and architecture of, 
 
 65. 
 
 31, 33. 
 
 
 Turret spiders, 20, 26, 44, 92. 
 
 Young spiders, 30, 40, 76, 91, 94, 101, 103; 
 
 
 care of, 25; communities of, 35; drinking 
 
 Uloborus, habits, 141 ; genus, described, 272. 
 
 habits, 22 ; moulting habits, 90. 
 
 Uloborus Americanus, 274. 
 
 
 Uloborus borbonicus, 273. 
 
 Zilla, habits of young, 22 ; communities of, 
 
 Uloborus geniculatus, 273. 
 
 42; weather habits, 79; genus, described, 
 
 Uloborus Latreillei, 273. 
 
 236; x-notata, 100, 237. 
 
 Uloborus plumipes, 274. 
 
 Zilla atrica, 106, 238. 
 
 Uloborus republicanus, males, 41. 
 
 Zilla montana, 239. 
 
ADVERTISEMENT. 
 
 The original price of this work was placed at thirty dollars ($30) per set of three 
 volumes. In the announcement thereof in a prospectus of August 1st, 1889, special terms 
 were offered to subscribers who should send their names before the 1st of November of the 
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 twenty-five dollars. With the issue of the first volume this special offer ceased, and the 
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 At that date, by public notice, the price of the work was fixed at ($50) fifty dollars. 
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 control of the issue. No separate volume will be sold. 
 
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 The first two volumes are devoted to a description of the industry and habits of Orb- 
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 aranead tribes. The first volume treats particularly of Snares and Nests ; the second volume 
 considers the Cocooning Industry, Maternal Instincts, and General Habits. These volumes 
 are liberally illustrated by drawings from nature, containing in all 853 figures, drawn 
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 page illustrations. Besides these there are forty lithographic plates, colored by 
 hand from nature, upon which are engraved 913 figures. In addition, a full page portrait 
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 illustrating typical species of the other aranead groups. 
 
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 "American Spiders and their Spinningwork," 
 
 Academy of Natural Sciences, 
 
 Logan Square, Philadelphia, U. S. A. 
 
Paet Third. 
 American Spiders and their Spinningwork. 
 
 ATLAS OF PLATES. 
 
? 
 
PLATE I. 
 
 Fig. 1. Epeira insularis, female, ventral view, X 1.5 ; la, epigynum j 1 lb, the same, side 
 view ; lc, male palp. (Page 143.) 
 
 Fig. 2. E. marmorea, female, epigynum ; 2a, same, side view. (Page 143.) 
 
 Fig. 3. E. trifolium, female ; 3a, side view of same ; 3b, male palp. (Page 145.) 
 
 Fig. 4. E. trifolium, female, variety candicans, X 1.5 ; 4a, the same, epigynum. 
 
 Fig. 5. Argiope Marxii, female, x 1 ; 5a, epigynum. (Page 223.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Epeira pratensis, female, X2; 6a, epigynum; 6b, same, side view. (Page 142.) 
 
 Fig. 7. E. Benjamina, female, abdomen, X 2 ; 7a, 7b, epigynum ; 7c, male palp. (Page 147.) 
 
 Fig. 8. E. arabesca, female, abdomen, X 2 ; 8a, epigynum ; 8b, male palp. (Page 148.) 
 
 Fig. 9. E. sclopetaria, female, epigynum ; 9a, male palp. (Page 137.) 
 
 Fig. 10. E. cornuta-strix, female, epigynum; 10a, 10b, male palp. (Page 140.) 
 
 Fig. 11. E. patagiata, female, epigynum; 11a, same, from another specimen; lib, male 
 palp. (Page 138.) 
 
 1 In all plates this organ is represented as seen from beneath, that is, looking toward the head, with 
 the spider lying upon its back. 
 
 (290) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders, 
 
 PLATE I. 
 
 I.Epeira insularis. 2.E.marmorea. 3,4. E.tri folium. 
 
 5.Argiope Marxii. 6.Epeira pratensis. 7. E.Benjamina 8.E.arabesca. 
 
 9,E.Sclopetaria. 10. E.strix. II.E.patagiata. 
 

PLATE II. 
 
 Fig. 1. Epeira marmorea, female, X 1.5, variety, conspicellata. See Plate XXVIII., Fig. 12. 
 
 Fig. 2. E. marmorea, male, x 2. (Page 143.) 
 
 Fig. 3. E. trifolium, female, X 1.5. The figure of the male is given in Vol. II., Plate I., 
 
 Fig. 10. 
 Fig. 4. E. Benjamina, female, X2. The figure was drawn and colored from an old adult, 
 
 in which the colors were much darkened. See Plate I., Fig. 7, and Plate 
 
 XXVIII., Fig. 13. 
 Fig. 5. E. Benjamina, male, X 2. (Page 147.) 
 Fig. 6. E. arabesca, female, X 2. See Plate I., Fig. 8. (Page 148.) 
 Fig. 7. E. arabesca, male, x 2. 
 Fig. 8. E. cornuta-strix, female, x 1.5. (Page 140.) 
 Fig. 9. E. cornuta-strix, male, X 1.5. 
 Fig. 10. E. sclopetaria, female, X 2. (Page 137.) 
 Fig. 11. E. sclopetaria, male, X2. 
 
 (294) 
 
PLATE 1 1 
 
 Auth-Del. 
 
 
PLATE III. 
 
 Fig. 1. Epeira cucurbitina, female, X 2. (Page 149.) 
 
 Fig. 2. E. cucurbitina, male, x 2 ; 2a, palp. 
 
 Fig. 3. E. cucurbitina, male, color variation, California ; 3a, side view ; 3b, epigynum ; 3c, 
 side view. 
 
 Fig. 4. E. vertebrata, male. X3. See Plates IV., V. (Page 151.) 
 
 Fig. 5. E. vertebrata, female, X3. See Plate IV., Fig. 1. 
 
 Fig. 6. E. marmorea, female, X 2. (Page 143.) 
 
 Fig. 7. E. marmorea, male, X2. 
 
 Fig. 8. E. patagiata, female ; 8a-8f, varied markings on the dorsum of same, X 1J. 
 
 Fig. 9. E. patagiata, male, X \\. (Page 138.) 
 
 (298) 
 
Vo J. III. American Spiders 
 
 PLATE 
 
 1,2,3, Epeira displicata. 4,5,E.vertebrata. 6,7, E.marmorea. 
 8,9, E.patagiata. 
 

PLATE IV. 
 
 Fig. 1. Epeira vertebrate, female, dark variety, X2; la, ventral view; lb, face and jaws; 
 
 lc, Id, epigynum, viewed underneath, and reverse view; le, same, side view. 
 
 See Plates III., V. (Page 151.) 
 Fig. 2. E. balaustina, female, x 2 ; 2a, ventral view of abdomen ; 2b, face and jaws ; 2c, 
 
 epigynum. (Page 155.) 
 
 Fig. 3. E. Ithaca, female ; 3a, face and jaws ; 3b, ventral view ; 3c, epigynum, seen under- 
 neath the last moult ; 3d, male palp. (Page 152.) 
 
 Fig. 4. E. placida, female, X2. (Page 153.) 
 
 Fig. 5. E. placida, male, X 2 ; 5a, palp. 
 
 Fig. 6. E. cucurbitina, female, X 2. (Page 149.) 
 
 Fig. 7. E. foliata (folifera), female, X 3. The name E. folifera is erroneously inserted upon 
 the page title. 
 
 Fig. 8. E. foliata (folifera), male, x 3 ; side view. 
 
 (302) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE. IV. 
 
 l.Epeira vertebrata. 2. E. ba la ust'i na. 3,E. ithaca. 
 4-.5.E.placida. 6. E. d isp licata . 7.8.E.fol ifera. 
 
PLATE V. 
 
 Fig. 1. Epeira carbonaria, female, X3; la, lb, epigynum ; 1c, epigynum, side view. (Page 
 
 157.) 
 Fig. 2. E. carbonaria, male, X3; 2a, tibia-II, clasping spines; 2b, palp. 
 Fig. 3. Verrucosa unistriata, female, X2; 3a, side view; 3b, epigynum; 3c, eyes and face. 
 
 (Page 200.) 
 Fig. 4. Epeira vertebrata, male palp ; 4a, same, opposite side and colored ; 4b, 4c, coxal 
 
 spurs. See Plates III., IV. (Page 151.) 
 
 Fig. 5. E. bivariolata, female, X2; 5a, abdomen, to show apical blisters; 5b, epigynum. 
 (Page 159.) 
 
 Fig. 6. E. bivariolata, male; 6a, palp. (Page 160.) 
 
 Fig. 7. E. ravilla, female, X 2 ; 7a, epigynum, probably immature. 
 
 Fig. 8. E. ravilla, male, X2; 8a, palp. (Page 161.) 
 
 Fig. 9. E. carbonarioides, female, X 2. (Page 158.) 
 
 (306) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE V 
 
 1,2. Epeira carbonaria. 3. Verrucosa unistnata. 
 
 4-.Epeira vertebrata. 5,6. E.bivariolata 7. 8. E.ravi I la. 
 
 S.E.carbonarioides 
 

PLATE VI. 
 
 Fig. 1. Epeira volucripes, female, X 2 ; la, lb, epigynum, front and side view. (Page 162.) 
 
 Fig. 2. E. volucripes, male, X 2 ; 2a, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 3. E. tranquilla, female, X2; 3a, epigynum. (Page 162.) 
 
 Fig. 4. E. punctigera, female, X 2 ; 4a, epigynum ; 4b, male palp. (Page 163.) 
 
 Fig. 5. E. mormon, female, x 2 ; 5a, epigynum. (Page 164.) 
 
 Fig. 6. E. reptilis, male ; 6a, sternum, labium, and maxilla; ; 6b, palpus. (Page 165.) 
 
 Fig. 7. E. forata, female, dorsal view, X 3 ; 7a, side view ; 7b, eyes, face, and mandibles ; 
 7c, epigynum. See Fig. 12. (Page 165.) 
 
 Fig. 8. E. Theisii, female, X2; 8a, epigynum. (Page 166.) 
 
 Fig. 9. E. Theisii, X2; 9a, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 10. E. tetragnathoides (Drexelia directa), female, x 3 ; 10a, epigynum ; 10b, epigynum 
 of another specimen. See- Plate XXII. 
 
 Fig. 11. E. tetragnathoides (Drexelia directa), male, X 3 ; lla, palp. 
 
 Fig. 12. E. forata, male, X4; 12a, face and eyes; 12b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 13. E. juniperi, female, X 2 ; 13a, side view ; 13b, face ; 13c, epigynum. (Page 167.) 
 
 (310) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders 
 
 l.2,Epeira volucnpes. 3.E.tKanquilla. 4.E.punctigera. 
 
 5. E. mormon. 6.E.reptilis 7.l2.E.f orata 8.9,E.Theisii 
 
 10.11, Orexelia directa. 13. Epeira juniperi. 
 
Fig. 1. 
 
 Fig. 
 
 2. 
 
 Figs 
 
 3, 
 
 Fig. 
 
 5. 
 
 Fig. 
 
 6. 
 
 Fig. 
 
 7. 
 
 Fig. 
 
 8. 
 
 Fig. 
 
 9. 
 
 Fig. 
 
 10. 
 
 Fig. 
 
 11. 
 
 Fig. 
 
 12. 
 
 PLATE VII. 
 
 Nephila Wilderi, female, natural size ; la, side view in outline ; lb, epigynum. 
 
 See Plate XXIII. 
 Nephila Wilderi, male, natural size. 
 
 4. E. Thaddeus, female, X 2 ; 3a, 3b, epigynum, front view and side views ; 3c, same, 
 oblique view, to show the genital barrier; Fig. 4, highly colored specimen. 
 
 Epeira Thaddeus, male, X2; 5a, palpus. (Page 169.) 
 
 Epeira Wittfeldse, female, X 2 ; 6a, side view ; 6b, eyes and mandibles ; 6c, epigy- 
 num. 
 
 Epeira Wittfeldse, male, X 2 ; 7a, 7b, palpus. (Page 168.) 
 
 Epeira Pegnia (globosa, Keyserling), female, X 2 ; 8a, epigynum. 
 
 Epeira Pegnia, male ; 9a, palpus. (Page 170.) 
 
 Epeira labyrinthea, female, X2; 10a, epigynum of California variety. Fig. 12.; 
 
 Epeira labyrinthea, male; 11a, palpus. (Page 171.) 
 
 Epeira labyrinthea, California variety ; 12a, side outline of abdomen ; 10a, epigynum. 
 
 (314) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders 
 
 PLATE VI 
 
 ,2,Nephi!a wilderi. 3,4,5, Epeira thaddeus. 6,7, E.Wifffeldae. 
 8,9, E.globosa. 10,11, 12, E. labyrinthea. 
 

PLATE VIII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Epeira anastera, female, X2; dorsal view; la-lg, forms of dorsal pattern of abdo- 
 men; Ih, side outline, X2; 11, outline of another specimen, variety conchlea, 
 x 2, showing caudal extension of abdomen ; lm, In, epigynum ; lq, eyes. 
 
 Fig. 2. E. anastera, male, X 2 ; 2a, terminal joints of palp. (Page 172.) 
 
 Fig. 3. E. anastera, male ; showing variant form. 
 
 Fig. 4. E. anastera (E. mirabilis) ; abdomen, with peculiar dorsal folium, X 2. 
 
 Fig. 5. E. linteata, female, X 3 ; 5a, natural size of body ; 5b, ventral view, X 3 ; 5c, 5d, 
 
 posterior and anterior views of epigynum ; 5f, eyes. 
 Fig. 6. E. linteata, male, drawn from imperfect specimen; 6a, natural size; 6b, palpus. 
 
 (Page 176.) 
 Fig. 7. E. corticaria, X 3 ; 7a, side view, X 3 ; 7b, 7c, epigynum. (Page 176.) 
 
 Fig. 8. E. miniata (scutulata), female, x 5 ; 8a, side view, x 5 ; 8b, eyes ; 8c, epigynum. 
 (Page 177.) 
 
 Fig. 9. E. miniata, male, x 5 ; 9a, immature male, dorsal view, x 5 ; 9b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 10. E. Bonsallse, female, dorsal view, without legs, X 5 ; 10a, face and eyes ; 10b, epigy- 
 num. (Page 179.) 
 
 Fig. 11. E. Mayo, female, X4; 11a, epigynum. (Page 179.) 
 
 Fig. 12. E. eustalina, female, X 2 ; lp, eyes. 
 
 (318) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders 
 
 PLATE VIII. 
 
 l-4.Epeira anastera. 5,B.E.Imteata. 7, E.corHcaria. 
 8.3.E rniniata. I0.E. Bonsallas. II.E.Mayo. l2.E.eustalina. 
 
PLATE IX. 
 
 Fig. 1. Epeira gemma, female, X2; la, side view, X2; lb, ventral view, X2; lc, face and 
 jaws; Id, le, epigynum ; If, same, viewed from beneath. (Page 182.) 
 
 Fig. 2. E. gemma, male, X 2 ; 2a, palpus. See Plates X., XI. (Page 183.) 
 
 Fig. 3. E. bispinosa, female, X 2 ; 3a, abdomen, side outline, X2; 3b, epigynum. (Page 180.) 
 
 Fig. 4. E. bucardia, X4; 4a, ventral view; 4b, side view; 4c, eyes; 4d, epigynum. (Page 
 , 183.) 
 
 Figs. 5, 6. E. Nordmanni, female, X2; 6a, epigynum. See Plate XI. (Page 184.) 
 
 Fig. 7. E. Nordmanni, male, x 2 ; 7a, palpus. 
 
 (322) 
 
Vol .III. American Spiders 
 
 ,2,Epeira gemma. 3,E.bispi nosa. 4,E. buca rd ia. 
 5,6.7, E.nord ma n i. 
 

 \ 
 
PLATE X. 
 
 Fig. 1. E. cavatica, female, X 2. See Plate XI. (Page 185.) 
 
 Fig. 2. E. cavatica, male, x 2. 
 
 Fig. 3. E. angulata (bicentennaria), X 1. See Plate XI. (Page 186.) 
 
 Fig. 4. E. angulata (bicentennaria), X4, young specimen. 
 
 Fig. 5. E. angulata (bicentennaria), immature male. 
 
 Fig. 6. E. gemma, X 1. See Plates IX., XI. (Page 182.) 
 
 Fig. 7. E. reticulata, 1 female, x 2, new species. See Plate XL, Fig. 7. 
 
 Fig._ 8. E. reticulata, male, X2. See Plate XI., Fig. 8. 
 
 Fig. 9. E. silvatica, female, Xl.5. See Plate XI. (Page 188.) 
 
 Fig. 10. E. diademata, female, x J. See Plate XI. (Page 188.) 
 
 Fig. 11. E. gemma, female, x 1.5. (Page 182.) 
 
 1 When writing the descriptive text of this species I classified it with E. miniata (page 177), which 
 it closely resembles, having at that time concluded that I was "Wrong in treating it as a new species. Sub- 
 sequent study led me to think the specimen different from E. miniata, and I therefore retain my original 
 name of the species in the plates, although too late to make proper correction and description in the text 
 itself. 
 
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Vol. III. American Sr iders, 
 
 PLATE X. 
 
 I, 2, Epeira cavatica 3, 5, E. angulata. 6, II, E. gemma. 7, 8. I rel 
 
 9, E. silvatica. 10, E. di idi m 
 
 
 
PLATE XI. 
 
 Fig. 1, Epeira angulata-Columbia, female; natural size; la, face; lb, epigynum; lc, side 
 view ; Id, epigynum of European E. angulata, showing corneous cones along 
 the edge of the genital cleft, lacking in E. angulata-Columbia. See Plate X. 
 (Page 186.) 
 
 Fig. 2. E. angulata, male, xi, drawn from European specimen (Russia); 2a, palpus. 
 (Page 187.) 
 
 Fig. 3. E. angulata, male (New Hampshire), XI; 3a, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 4. E. angulata-bicentennaria (Pennsylvania) ; 4a, dorsal view of abdomen (specimen 
 from Adirondacks, N. Y.), X1.5; 4b, epigynum, front view; 4c, side view; 
 4d, 4e, enlarged views, front and side, of epigynum (Adirondack specimen). 
 
 Fig. 5. E. Nordmanni, female, ventral view of abdomen ; 5a, epigynum ; 5b, side view. 
 See Plate IX. (Page 184.) 
 
 Fig. 6. E. cavatica, female, epigynum ; 6a, male palp. (Page 185.) 
 
 Fig. 7. E. reticulata, face and eyes of male. See Plate X. 
 
 Fig. 8. E. reticulata; face and eyes of female; 8a, epigynum. 
 
 Fig. 9. E. silvatica, dorsal view; 9a, epigynum. (Page 188.) 
 
 Fig. 10. E. diademata, Xl.5; ]0a, ventral view, X1.5; 10b, face; 10c, epigynum; lOd, side 
 view. (Page 188.) 
 
 Fig. 11. E. diademata, male; 11a, lib, palpus. (After Blackwall.) 
 
 Figs. 12, 13, 14. E. gemma, female ; views from behind, from front, showing various colors 
 and markings. (Page 182.) 
 
 Fig. 15. E. Pacificse, female, X 3 ; 15a, epigynum. (Page 180.) 
 
 Fig. 16. E. Pacificse, male, X3; 16a, palpus. (Page 180.) 
 
 (330) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders 
 
 PLATE XI 
 
 3b | b 
 
 1.2.3. Epeira angulata. 4, Ep. bicenbenaria. 5. E. nordmanni. 6. E. cavatica. 
 7.8. E. reticulata. 9. silvatica.10. II. E. diademata. 12.13. I4.E. gemma 
 
 15. 16. Ep.paciFica. 
 

PLATE XII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Ordgarius cornigerus, female, X3; la, side view; lb, face, X6, to show the knobby 
 forehead; lc, gravid specimen, with dorsal cones and markings nearly oblit- 
 erated ; Id, epigynum. (Page 197.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Ordgarius bisaccatus, female, X 2 ; 2a, epigynum. (Page 198.) 
 
 Fig. 3. Ordgarius bisaccatus, male ; 3a, natural size ; 3b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 4. Marxia stellata, female, x 2 ; 4a, outline side view ; 4b, epigynum. (Page 193.) 
 
 Fig. 5. Marxia stellata, male, X2; 5a, palpus. (Page 194.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Verrucosa arenata, female, X3; Ga, side view; 6b, face; 6c, epigynum. (Page 200.) 
 
 Fig. 7. Verrucosa arenata, male ; 7a, palpus. (Page 201.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Gea heptagon, female, X4; 8a, side view; 8b, face; 8c, sternum and mouth parts. 
 (Page 208.) 
 
 (334) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XII. 
 
 Ordqarius corniqerus. 2.3.0. bisaccatus. 4.5. Marxia stellata. 
 6. 7. Verrucosa arenata. 8. Gea heptagon, 
 
PLATE XIII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Wagneria tauricornis, female, X4, side view ; la, epigynum ; lb, side view; lc, face; 
 Id, sternum ; le, dorsal view of body, X 4. (Page 204.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Wagneria tauricornis, male, side view, X 4 ; 2a, palpus. (Page 205.) 
 
 Fig. 3. Kaira alba, female, X2; 3a, side outline; 3b, eyes; 3c, epigynum. (Page 202.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Wixia ectypa, female, X2; 4a, side outline; 4b, face; 4c, sternum and mouth parts; 
 4d, epigynum. (Page 205.) 
 
 Fig. 5. Wixia ectypa, male, X2; 5a, palpus. (Page 206.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Carepalxis tuberculifera, female, side view, X4; 6a, epigynum; 6b, 6c, face; 6d, 
 epigynum. (Page 207.) 
 
 Fig. 7. Marxia nobilis (stellata-nobilis), female, X2; 7a, side view; 7b, face and eyes; 7c, 
 epigynum. (Pages 194-5.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Marxia nobilis, male, X 2 ; 8a, palpus. (Page 195.) 
 
 Fig. 9. Marxia nobilis, female, X2. (Page 195.) 
 
 Fig. 10. Marxia grisea, female, X 3 ; 10a, side view ; 10b, eyes ; 10c, epigynum. (Page 195.) 
 
 Fig. 11. Marxia msestaj female, X2; 11a, abdomen, side outlined; lib, epigynum; lie, side 
 view. (Page 196.) 
 
 Fig. 12. Gasteracantha maura, female, X 2 ; 12a, epigynum. (Page 210.) 
 
 (338) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XIII. 
 
 ,2 Wagneria tauricornis. 3. Kaira alba 4,5.Wixia Ectypa. 
 6. Carepalxis tuberculifera. 7.8.9. Marxia nobilis. 
 IQ.M.grisea. II.M. moesta. 12. Gasteracantha maura. 
 
PLATE XIV. 
 
 Fig. 1, Argiope avara (Eagle Pass, Texas), female, X1J; la, epigynum. (Page 222.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Hentzia basilica (Washington, D. C), female. See Plate XXIII. 
 
 Fig. 3. Epeira spinigera, female, X3 (Santa Rosa, California); 3a, side view of abdomen; 
 3b, epigynum; 3c, side view of same; 3d, epigynum (after Cambridge). (Page 
 191.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Epeira spinigera, male. 
 
 Fig. 5. Epeira nephiloides, female, X 2. See Plate XXII. (Page 190.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Epeira nephiloides, female (after Keyserling) ; 6a, side outline ; 6b, epigynum. 
 
 Fig. 7. Gasteracantha pallida (Tucson, Arizona), female, X3. (Page 209.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Gasteracantha preciosa (Buena Vista Lake, California), female, X3; 8a, epigynum. 
 (Page 211.) 
 
 Fig. 9. Gasteracantha cancriformis, female; 9a, epigynum. (Page 211.) 
 
 (342) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XIV. 
 
 Argiope. Epeira. Gasteracantha. 
 
PLATE XV. 
 
 Fig. 1. Argiope cophinaria, female, natural size. See Plate XVI. (Page 217.' 
 
 Fig. 2. A. cophinaria, female; side view of body. 
 
 Fig. 3. Dorsal view of young of A. cophinaria. 
 
 Fig. 4. Leg of immature A. cophinaria. 
 
 Fig. 5. A. cophinaria, male; Fig. C, natural size of the same. (Page 218.) 
 
 Fig. 7. A. argyraspis, female ; natural size. See Plate XVI. (Page 219.) 
 
 Fig. 8. A. argyraspis, female ; side view of body. 
 
 Fig. 9. A. argyraspis, immature female; side view of body. 
 
 Figs. 10, 11. A. argyraspis, male; natural size of same. 
 
 Fig. 12. A. argyraspis, male; side view of body. 
 
 (346) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 
 6, Argiope cophinaria. 7, 12, A. argyraspis. 
 
 lt- Del 
 
 Edw. SherjparcL, Lrth. 
 
PLATE XVI. 
 
 Fig. 1. Argiope argcntata, female, enlarged, 1.5; la, ventral view, X1J; lb, dorsal view of 
 another specimen, x 3 ; lc, epigynum ; Id, side view. (Page 220.) 
 
 Fig. 2. A. argentata, male, X 3 ; 2a, natural size ; 2b, another figure of same, giving dorsal 
 view, X 3 ; 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, views of palp, face, and eyes. 
 
 Fig. 3. A. argyraspis, enlarged view of face ; 3a, epigynum ; 3b, side view. See Plate XV. 
 (Page 219.) 
 
 Fig. 4. A. argyraspis, male ; terminal joints of palp. 
 
 Fig. 5. A. cophinaria, front view of face ; 5b, epigynum, X 9 ; 5c, side view. See Plate XV. 
 (Page 217.) 
 
 Fig. 6. A. cophinaria, male, face and mandibles ; 6a, terminal joints of palp. 
 
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Vol, III American Spielers 
 
 PLATE XVI 
 
 2 a 2 
 
 2.Argiope argentata. 3.4.A. argyraspis. 5.6.A. cophinaria. 
 
* 
 
PLATE XVII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Cyclosa Walckenaerii, female, x 4 ; la, ventral view, X 4 ; lb, side view, x 4 ; lc, 
 face and mandibles ; Id, epigynum. (Page 226.) This species was named and 
 described by me as 0. cervicula, and the plate made two years before the 
 publication of Keyserling's name. But not having been published, Keyserling's 
 name has priority. I have corrected in the text but could not correct the 
 plate name. 
 
 Fig. 2. Cyclosa Walckenaerii, male; 2a, face and eyes; 2b, sternum and mouth parts. 
 /Fig. 3. Cyclosa conica, female, X 3 ; 3a, natural size ; 3b, side view ; 3b, 3c, epigynum. 
 (Page 225.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Cyclosa conica, male, X3; 4a, side view; 4b, palpus. (Page 226.) 
 
 Fig. 5. Cyclosa turbinata, female, x 3 ; 5a, ventral view, X 3 ; 5b, natural size ; 5c, epigy- 
 num ; 5d, side view. (Page 224.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Cyclosa turbinata, male, X 3 ; 6a, side view ; 6b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 7. Cyclosa caroli, female, x 4 ; 7a, side view ; 7b, 7c, epigynum. (Page 277.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Cyclosa caroli, male, X 4 ; 8a, side view ; 8b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 9. Cyclosa bifurca, female, X 3 ; 9a, side view ; 9b, epigynum ; 9c, eyes. 
 
 Fig. 10. Cyclosa bifurca, male, X 3. (Page 227.) 
 
 Fig. 11, Cyrtophora tuberculata, female, X4; 11a, epigynum; lib, side view, X4; lie, face 
 and mandibles; lid, sternum and mouth organs. (Page 236.) 
 
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Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XVII. 
 
 1,2. Cyclosa cervicula. 3,4. C. cornea. 5,6.C. turbinata. 7,8. C. caroli. 
 9,10. C. bif urea. II. Cyrtophora tuberculata. 
 
PLATE XVIII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Zilla x-notata, x 3 ; la, epigynum. (Page 237.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Zilla x-notata, male, X 3 ; 2a, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 3. Zilla montana, female, X 3 ; 3a, epigynum. (Page 239.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Zilla montana, male, X 3 ; 4a, palp ; 4b, another view of same, opposite side ; 4c, 
 clawlike process. 
 
 Fig. 5. Epeira Peckhami (Epeira Peckhami), X3; 5a, epigynum; 5b, side view; 5c, ventral 
 view. The drawings of this species are unsatisfactory, the abdomen not show- 
 ing the shoulder humps, and the epigynum being imperfect. (Page 189.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Epeira Peckhami, male, x 3 ; 6a, palps of same ; 6b, view of cymbium and basal 
 spurs. (Page 190.) 
 
 Fig. 7. Zilla atrica, female, x 3 ; 7a, epigynum. (Page 238.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Zilla atrica, male ; 8a, palpus. 
 
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Vol. III. American Spiders 
 
 1,2, Zilla x-notata. 3,4, Z. montana. 5,6, Z. peckhami. 
 7,8, Z.atrica. 
 
PLATE XIX. 
 
 Fig. 1. Signa mollybyrna?, female, x 4 ; la, side view of same ; lb, face, eyes, and mandi- 
 bles; lc, epigynum. (Page 229.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Signa Keyserlingi, female, X 4 ; 2a, side view of body ; 2b, epigynum ; 2c, face, eyes, 
 and mandibles. (Page 230.) 
 
 Fig. 3. Signa Listerii, female, X4; 3a, epigynum. (Page 231.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Signa Listerii, male, X 4 ; 4a, male palp. 
 
 Fig. 5. Signa nigripes, female, x 4 ; 5a, labium and maxilla; ; 5b, epigynum ; 5c, eyes. 
 
 Fig. 6. Signa nigripes, male, X 4 ; 6a, male palp. (Page 232.) 
 
 Fig. 7. Signa variabilis, female, X4; 7a, face; 7b, ventral view. (Page 233 and Plate XX.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Signa maura, female, x 4 ; 8a, eyes ; 8b, epigynum. (Page 234.) 
 
 Fig. 9. Signa maculata, female, x 4 ; 9a, epigynum ; 9b, same. (After Emerton.) (Page 235.) 
 
 Fig. 10. Circidia funebris, X 4 ; 10a, side view ; 10b, epigynum ; 10c, eyes, face, and mandi- 
 bles; lOd, sternum and mouth parts. (Page 216.) 
 
 Fig. 11. Cyclosa Thorelli, female, X3; 11a, side view, X3; lib, epigynum ; lie, sternum and 
 mouth parts; lid, eyes. (Page 228.) 
 
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Vol. 1 1 1. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XIX. 
 
 I.Singa Mollybyrnse. 2, S. Keyserlingi. 3.4, S. Lysterii. 5, 6,S.nigripes. 7 S. variabilis. 
 8, S. maura. 9, S. maculata. 10. Gercidia funebns. II, Cyclosa Thorelli. 
 
PLATE XX. 
 
 Fig. 1. Argyroepeira venusta, female, dorsal view, X 3 ; la, eyes (unlettered figure to the 
 right of No. 2) ; lb, epigynum ; lc, rows of hairs on fernora-IV. 
 
 Fig. 2. A. venusta in position beneath her orb. (Page 242.) 
 
 Fig. 3. A. venusta, side view, x 3. (Page 242.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Argyroepeira venusta, male, x 3, side view ; 4a, male palps. 
 
 Figs. 5, 6. Argyroepeira venusta, young specimens ; dorsal (5) and ventral (6) views. 
 
 Fig. 7. Abbotia gibberosa, female, x 3 ; 7a, side view ; 7b, epigynum ; 7c, eyes, an imper- 
 fect drawing, see Plate XXIV., 4; 7d, cephalothorax, side view. (Page 240 and 
 Plate XXIV.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Abbotia gibberosa, male, X3; 8a, male palp. (Page 241.) 
 
 Fig. 9. Abbotia maculata, female, X 4 ; 9a, epigynum. (Page 241.) 
 
 Fig. 10. Abbotia maculata, male, x 4 ; 10a, male palp. 
 
 Figs. 11, 12. Signa variabilis, female, X 3, variations ; 11a, epigynum. 
 
 Fig. 13. Signa variabilis, male, x 3 ; 13a, male palp. (Page 233 and Plate XIX.) 
 
 (360) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XX. 
 
 176, Argyroepei ra hortorum. 7,8, Abbotia gibberosa. 
 9,10, A.macula + a. llrl3,Singa variabilis. 
 
PLATE XXI. 
 
 Fig. 1. Acrosoma gracile, female, X3; la, eyes. (Page 212.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Acrosoma gracile, side view, x 4 ; 2a, epigynum ; 2b, side view. 
 
 Fig. 3. Acrosoma gracile, female, x 4 ; ventral view. 
 
 Fig. 4. Acrosoma gracile, male, X 4 ; 4a, ventral view ; 4b, 4c, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 5. Acrosoma armatum, Koch, female, X 2 ; 5a, epigynum. 
 
 Fig. 6. Acrosoma reduvianum, female, X 4 ; 6a, epigynum ; 6b, side view ; 6c, eyes. 
 
 Fig. 7. Acrosoma reduvianum, male, X4 ; 7a, 7b, palpus. (Page 213.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Acrosoma saggitatum, female, X 2 ; 8a, eyes ; 8b, epigynum ; 8c, side view. 
 
 Fig. 9. Acrosoma saggitatum, male, X 4 ; 9a, 9b, palpus. (Page 214.) 
 
 (370) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XX 
 
 a b 
 
 1-4, Acrosoma qracile. 5, A.arma + u m. 6,7, A.reduvia nu m. 
 
 8,9, A.sacjcj ita turn 
 
' ' 
 
PLATE XXII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Larinia borealis, female, X3; la, eyes; lb, sternum. (Page 247.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Larinia borealis, male, X 3 ; 2a, sternum ; 2b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 3. Drexelia directa, female, X 3 ; 3a, side view ; 3b, face ; 3c, dorsal view of another 
 specimen; 3d, sternal parts; 3e, sternal parts of second specimen. (Page 249.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Meta Menardi, female, x 3 ; 4a, side view ; 4b, face ; 4c, sternal parts ; 4c-f, epi- 
 
 gynum. (Page 246.) 
 'Fig. 5. Meta Menardi, male, X 3 ; 5a, palpus. (After Blackwall.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Epeira nephiloides, female, x 2 ; 6a, ventral view, X 2 ; 6b, mouth parts ; 6c, face. 
 (Page 190.) 
 
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Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XXII. 
 
 ,2, Larinia. borealis. 3. Drexefia directa. 4,5, Meta Menardi. 6. Epeira nephflaides. 
 
PLATE XXIII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Nephila concolor, female, natural size; la, eyes; lb, epigynum ; lc, sternum and 
 mouth parts, x 2. (Page 256.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Nephila Wistariana, female, X 1.5 ; la, side view, X1.5; lb, eyes and mandibles; le, 
 sternal parts; Id, epigynum. (Page 252.) 
 
 Fig. 3. Nephila Wistariana, male, X 2 ; 3a, side view, natural size ; 3b, palps. 
 
 Fig. 4. Nephila maculata, female, x 1.5 ; 4a, side view ; 4b, face ; 4c, sternum. (Page 254.) 
 
 Fig. 5. Nephila aurea, male, X 2, new species ; 5a, dorsal view of body, X 7 ; 5b, face ; 5c, 5d, 
 palpus. Of this apparently new species I have but one example, which I col- 
 lected in Florida, on Merrit's Island, Indian River. 
 
 Fig. 6. Nephila Wilderi, female, face and mandibles, X5; 6a, sternum and mouth parts. 
 (Page 251.) 
 
 Fig. 7. Nephila Wilderi, male, dorsal view much enlarged ; 7a, palpus. (Page 252.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Hentzia basilica, female, X 3 ; 8a, side view ; 8b, face ; 8c, epigynum. (Page 244.) 
 
 (378) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders and their Spining Work. 
 
 PLATE XXI 
 
 I.. Nephila concolor. 2.3.N. Wistariana. 4. N.maculata. 5. N.aurea.6.7. N.wilderi. 
 
 8. Hentzia basilica. 
 
ft 
 
 PLATE XXIV. 
 
 Fig. 1. Nephila clavipes, female, X1.5; la, side view (after Koch); lb, side outline of 
 cephalothorax ; lc, epigynum ; Id, ventral view of body ; 1c, eyes. (Page 255.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Argyroepeira argyra, female, x 3 ; 2a, sternal parts ; 2b, face and jaws ; 2c, epigynum, 
 
 side view. (Page 243.) 
 Fig. 3. Argyroepeira argyra, male, x 3 ; 3a, 3b, palpus. 
 Fig. 4. Abbotia gibberosa, female, face and jaws, enlarged; 4a, sternal parts; 4b, epigynum. 
 
 (Page 240.) 
 
 Fig. 5. Eucta lacerta, female, X 3 ; 5a, enlarged view of abdomen ; 5b, eyes and jaws ; 5c, 
 sternum. (Page 266.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Eucta lacerta, male, X 3 ; 6a, palpus. 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders 
 
 PLATE XXIV. 
 
 I, Nephila clavipes. 2,3, Argyroepeira argyra. 4, Abbotfa gibberosa. 
 5,6, Euc+a lacerta. 
 

PLATE XXV. 
 
 Fig. 1. Tetragnatha elongate (grallator), female, X2; la, side view; lb, eyes; lc, epigynum; 
 Id, sternum, maxillre, and fangs; le, undulate fang, greatly enlarged. (Page 2G0.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Tetragnatha elongata, male, X2; 2a, face and mandibles; 2b, palp, much enlarged. 
 
 Fig. 3. Tetragnatha extensa, female, X2; 3a, side view; 3b, face; 3c, face; 3d, base of fang. 
 
 Fig. 4. Tetragnatha extensa, male, X2; 4a, face and mandibles; 4b, bifid spur on fang, 
 
 enlarged ; 4c, palp. (Page 259.) 
 Fig. 5. Tetragnatha extensa, female, x 3 ; 5a, side view, X 3 ; 5b, side view of young female, 
 
 X3; 5c, epigynum; 3c, 5c, face and fangs; 5d, sternum and maxillse; 5x, male, 
 
 dorsal view ; y, palp. 
 
 Fig. 6. Tetragnatha Banksi, male, side view, X2; 6a, eyes and fangs; 6b, palpus. See Plate 
 XXVII., 4. (Page 262.) 
 
 Fig. 7. Tetragnatha laboriosa, female, X 3 ; 7a, side view ; 7b, face ; 7c, sternal parts ; 7d, 
 epigynum. (Page 262.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Tetragnatha laboriosa, male, X3; 8a, face; 8b, palp. (Page 263.) 
 
 Fig. 9. Eugnatha vermiformis, x 2, female ; side view, x 3 ; 9a, dorsal view of abdomen, X 3 ; 
 
 9b, outline to show vermiform shape of abdomen; 9c, sternal parts; 9d, face 
 
 and mandibles ; 9e, epigynum. (Page 264.) 
 
 Fig. 10. Eugnatha pallida, female, natural size ; 10a, side view, x 3 ; 10b, dorsal view of 
 abdomen, x 3 ; 10c, face and mandibles ; lOd, epigynum. (Page 265.) 
 
 Fig. 11. Eugnatha pallida, male, X3; Ha, face and mandibles; lib, palpus. 
 
 (386) 
 
Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XXV. 
 
 ,2, Tetragnatha elongata . 3,4-, T.extensa. 5,5.vJ. extensa. 6, T. banksi.7,8,T. laboriosa. 
 9,Eugnattiavermifarmis. 10,11, E. pallida. 
 
PLATE XXVI. 
 
 Fig. 1. Pachygnatha autumnalis, female, X4; la, side view; lb, eyes, face, and jaws; lc, 
 sternum and mouth parts. (Page 268.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Pachygnatha autumnalis, male, X 4 ; 2a, face ; 2b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 3. Pachygnatha Dorothea, female, X4; 3a, face. (Page 270.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Pachygnatha Dorothea, male ; 4a, face ; 4b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 5. Pachygnatha Curtisi, male, X4; 5a, side view; 5b, face; 5c, jaw and fang; 5d, 
 palpus. (Page 271.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Pachygnatha tristriata, female, X 3 ; 6a, side view ; 6b, epigynum. See Plate 
 XXVIII., 1. (Page 270.) 
 
 Fig. 7. Pachygnatha xanthostoma, female, X 4 ; 7a, face ; 7b, epigynum ; 7c, section of skin 
 enlarged to show reticulations. (Page 269.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Pachygnatha xanthostoma, male, x 4 ; 8a, face ; 8b, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 9. Pachygnatha brevis, female, X4; 9a, eyes. (Page 267.) 
 
 Fig. 10. Pachygnatha brevis, male, X 4 ; 10a, palpus. (Page 268.) 
 
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Vol. III. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XXVI. 
 
 ,2,Pachygnatha autumnalis. 3.4.P, Dorothea. 5. P. curtisi. 6. P. tristriata. 
 7 8.P. xanthostoma.9.10. P. brevis. 
 
PLATE XXVII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Uloborus geniculatus, female, X3; la, face, eyes, and mandibles; lb, sternum and 
 maxillce ; 1c, epigynum ; Id, calamistinm (this figure is inverted). » 
 
 Fig. 2. Uloborus geniculatus, male, X3; 2a, palpus. (Page 273.) 
 
 Fig. 3. Uloborus plumipes, female, X 4 ; 3a, side view, of body ; 3b, face, eyes, mandibles ; 
 3c, epigynum ; 3d, first leg to show tibial brush ; 3e, cribellum (c) in situ. 
 (Page 274.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Uloborus plumipes, x 8, young female ; 4a, sternum and maxilta ; 4b, U. plumipes, 
 X 8, young female (California), variation of color. 
 
 Fig. 5. Uloborus plumipes, male, x 8 (after Emerton) ; 4a, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 6. Hyptiotes cavatus, X 4, female ; Ga, side view, X 4 ; Ob, sternum and maxilla; ; Gc, 
 face; Gd, calamistrum ; Ge, cribellum (c) in situ; 6f, cribellum; 6g, epigynum. 
 
 Fig. 7. Hyptiotes cavatus, male, X4; 7a, palpus. (Page 276.) 
 
 Fig. 8. Theridiosoma radiosum, female, X 8 ; 8a, side view, X 8 ; 8b, color variation, X 8 ; 8c, 
 sternum and maxillre ; 8d, eyes and mandibles ; 8e, epigynum. (Page 257.) 
 
 Fig. 9. Theridiosoma radiosum, male, X8; 9a, sternum and maxillae; 9b, 9c, 9d, views of 
 palps. 
 
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Vol. III. American Spiders 
 
 ,2, Uloborus geniculates. 3,5, U.Amen'canus. 6.7, Hyptiotes cavafus. 
 8, 9, Then'diosoma radiosum. 
 
PLATE XXVIII. 
 
 Fig. 1. Pachygnatha tristriata, male; la, eyes; lb, jaws; lc, palp. (Page 270.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Pachygnatha brevis, male, mandible and fang. (Page 268.) 
 
 Fig. 3. Pachygnatha furcillata, female, outline of cephalothorax and mandible. (After Key- 
 eerling.) (Page 271.) 
 
 Fig. 4. Tetragnatha Banksi, male, X4; 3a, dorsal view, X 3. See Plate XXIV. (Page 202.) 
 
 Fig. 5. Eucta lacerta, male, eyes and mandibles. See Plate XXrV. (Page 266.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Uloborus Americanus, male, X4; 5a, eyes; 5b, palp; 5c, Abbot's drawing, No. 44. 
 • (Page 274.) 
 
 The figures which follow are copies made from Abbot's manuscript drawings, upon 
 which Baron Walckenaer based his descriptions of many American spiders, 
 and on the authority of which I have changed the accepted nomenclature of a 
 number of species. (See page 133 of this volume.) I give a few examples here 
 in order that students who cannot consult the manuscripts in the Kensington 
 (London) Museum may judge for themselves as to the correctness of my decis- 
 ion. The numbers attached are those of Abbot's figures. 
 
 Fig. 7. Acro8oma sagittatum, No. 50 ; Fig. 8, A. gracile, No. 548 ; Fig. 9, A. reduvianum, No. 
 367 ; Fig. 10, Epeira Pegnia, Nos. 375, 555 ; Fig. 11, E. miniata, No. 365 ; Fig. 12, 
 E. eustala, No. 119 ; 12a, No. 120 ; Fig. 13, E. conspicellata, No. 121 ; Fig. 14, E. 
 Benjamina, No. 126; Fig. 15, E. arabesca, No. 346; Fig. 16, Argiope cophinaria, 
 No. 151 ; Fig. 17, Verrucosa arenata, Nos. 165, 181 ; Fig. 18, Argyroepeira venusta, 
 No. 113. 
 
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Vol. Ill, American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XXVIII 
 
 l,Pachygnatha tri striata. 2,R brevi's. 3, R furcillata. 4,Tetragnatha Banksi. 5,Eucta lacerta. 
 6,Uloborous Americanus. 7, Acrosoma sagittatus. 8, A. gracile. 9, A. reduvianum. 
 IO,Epeira Pegnia. II, E.miniata. l2,E.eustala. 13, E. conspicillata. 14-, E.Benjamina. l5,E.arabesca. 
 l6,Argiope cophinaria. 17, Verrucosa arenata: 18, Argyroepeira venusta. 
 
PLATE XXIX. 
 
 Fig. 1. Theridium Foxi, male, X8, new species; la, sternum and mouth parts; lb, face 
 and mandibles; lc, palpus. (No verbal description is made.) 
 
 Fig. 2. Agalena curta, new species, male, X 3. (No verbal description is made.) 
 
 Fig. 3. Agalena curta, female, x 3. The specimens of this species were collected in Cali- 
 fornia. They are distinguished from Agalena nrevia, not only by color and 
 marking, but by the character of the short spinnerets. 
 
 Fig. 4. Dictyna philoteichous McCook, female, X 3. Simon (Hist. Nat. Ar., Vol. I., page 
 235) thinks this to be D. civica Lucas. It may be D. volupis Keys. 
 
 Fig. 5. Dictyna philoteichous, male, x 3 ; Fig. 5 is a mature male ; 5a, the immature, show- 
 ing the difference between the two, and the greater resemblance of the latter 
 to the female. 
 
 Fig. 6. Agalena nsevia, female, X 2 ; Ga, eyes. 
 
 Fig. 7. Segestria canities McCook, female, X 2; 7a, eyes. See Vol. II., page 135. M. 
 Simon expresses the opinion in his Natural History of Spiders, New Edition, 
 Vol. II., page 322, that this species does not belong to Segestria. See Index. 
 
 Fig. 8. Cteniza Californica, female, X1.5, the well known American trapdoor spider; 8a, 
 eyes. 
 
 Fig. 9. Atypus Abbotii, female, X 1.5. See Vol. I., page 325 ; Vol. II., page 138. 
 
 Fig. 10. Misumena vatia, female, X 2 ; 10a, eyes ; 10b, young example, x 3. See Vols. I., II., 
 Index. 
 
 Fig. 11. Phidippus opifex (McCook), female, X 2 ; 11a, eyes. See Vol. II., page 149. 
 
 Fig. 12. Phidippus Johnsoni, female, x 2. See Vol. II., page 331. 
 
 Fig. 13. Zygoballus bettini, female, X 3. See Vol. II., page 31. 
 
 Fig. 14. Astia vittata, male, X 2. See Vol. II., page 52, and Index. 
 
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Vol. Ill American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE XXIX. 
 
 I.Theridium Faxi. 2.3. Agalena curta. 4,5. Dictyna philoteichous. 6, Agalena naevia. 
 
 7, Segestria canities. 8,Cteni2aCalifomica. 9. Atypus Abboti. IO,Misumena vatia. 
 
 II, Phidippus opifex. 12, P. Johnsoni. l3,Zygoballus bettini. l4,Astia vittata. 
 
PLATE XXX. 
 
 Fig. 1. Lycosa tigrina McCook, female, X 1.5 ; la, ventral view, X 1.5 ; lb, ventral view of 
 young specimen, a male; lc, epigynum. 
 
 Fig. 2. Lycosa tigrina, male, X 1.5. 
 
 Fig. 3. Lycosa arenicola Scuddeh, female, X 1.5 ; 3a, side view, X 1.5 ; 3b, ventral view, X 1.5. 
 
 Fig. 4. Lycosa arenicola, male, X 1.5. 
 
 Fig. 5. Lycosa ramulosa, female, x 3, new species ; 5a, ventral view ; 5b, face ; 5c, epigynum. 
 This beautiful spider was sent me by the late Mr. John Curtis from California. 
 • (No verbal description is made.) 
 
 Fig. 6. Lycosa ramulosa, male, X 3 ; 6a, palpus. 
 
 Fig. 7. Pucetia aurora McCook, female, X 1.5 ; 7a, face ; 7b, ventral view, X 1.5. See Vol. 
 II., page 147. 
 
 Fig. 8. Pucetia aurora, male, X 1.5 ; 8a, side view, X 3. 
 
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Vol. ill. American Spiders. 
 
 PLATE. XXX. 
 
 f 5c 
 
 ,2, Lycosa tigrina. 3,4, L. arenicola. 5,6, Lramulosa. 7.8. Pucetia aurora.