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Smeringopus natalensis Lawrence, 1947 Natal's Daddy Long-legs

Lawrence, when describing this African species, (which he felt was only slightly differrent from Smeringopus elongatus, Smeringopus pallidus and Smeringopus lesnei) noted it was common in buildings. Up to five or six webs are arranged in corners of rooms in tiers one above the other, each with a male or female. They appeared to predate ants. It is now common in Australian cities and inland, but not often houses. It is in nearly every large crook of branches in figs in the city parks (Helen Smith, pers. comm). Huber noted the female was barely distinguishable from not only the above species but also many others. This species however does features longer legs in the female than the male, rare in pholcids. ♀ 6mm ♂ 6mm

Female Hope Valley, SA 5090


Smeringopus natalensis
Photo: Mark Newton

Male Hope Valley, SA 5090


Male Hope Valley 5090 SA
Photo: Mark Newton

Male tri-lobed palpal bulb. Hope Valley, SA 5090


Male Hope Valley 5090 SA
Photo: Mark Newton

 

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