Althepus Thorell, 1898

Li, Fengyuan, Liu, Chang, Wongprom, Prasit & Li, Shuqiang, 2018, Sixteen new species of the spider genus Althepus Thorell, 1898 (Araneae: Ochyroceratidae) from Southeast Asia, Zootaxa 4471 (3), pp. 401-445 : 402-412

publication ID

https://doi.org/ 10.11646/zootaxa.4471.3.1

publication LSID

lsid:zoobank.org:pub:294764A6-5EE6-40DC-B05C-BE23398A4B29

DOI

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5997333

persistent identifier

https://treatment.plazi.org/id/03F487D1-B63A-FFFC-FF4C-F9EF0550F91D

treatment provided by

Plazi

scientific name

Althepus Thorell, 1898
status

 

Genus Althepus Thorell, 1898

Type species. Althepus pictus Thorell, 1898

Emended diagnosis. The genus Althepus belongs to Psilodercinae and can be distinguished from other genera of the subfamily by the following combination of characters: cheliceral promargin with lamina and 1–2 teeth, retromargin with 1–2 small teeth; tarsus of male palp with lateral protrusion bearing a hook-shaped spine; short bulb with embolus; and female internal genitalia often with paired spermathecae (Deeleman-Reinhold 1995).

Remarks. According to our observations, we used hook-shaped spine instead the "lanceolate apophysis" used by Deeleman-Reinhold (1995), and used lamina and 1–2 teeth instead the "3 teeth" used by Deeleman-Reinhold (1995).

Althepus bamensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 1–2 View FIGURE 1 View FIGURE 2 , 30 View FIGURE 30 , 32 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 33986), Thailand, Tak Province, Tha Song Yang District, Bam Thung Tham Sub District , unnamed cave, 17°16.603'N, 98°11.497'E, 169 m altitude, 19 November 2016 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 2 males and 2 females, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 33987–33990). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all the other species by their short, slightly sigmoid embolus ( Fig. 1A View FIGURE 1 ) and their horn-shaped distal part of the conductor in males; and by two pairs of spermathecae with irregular margins in females ( Fig. 2A View FIGURE 2 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 4.48; carapace 1.48 length, 1.52 width; abdomen 2.69 length, 1.62 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 2C View FIGURE 2 ), yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle one shortened to form a triangular band around eyes. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 20 small denticles ( Fig. 30A View FIGURE 30 ). Labium brown. Sternum brown. Abdomen elongate, with complex pattern of white and dark-brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown, femur and tibia with white annulations. Leg measurements: I - (11.86, 0.63, 11.79, 21.15, -), II missing, III 17.32 (5.00, 0.57, 4.25, 6.28, 1.22), IV 24.76 (6.99, 0.59, 6.54, 9.04, 1.60). Male palp ( Figs 1A–D View FIGURE 1 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of cymbial protrusion (two of them missing, Fig. 1D View FIGURE 1 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 1A View FIGURE 1 ); bulb bright yellow, ovate; embolus arising distally from bulb, short, slightly sigmoid; conductor arising proximally from bulb, with two horn-shaped protrusions distally; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 2D–E View FIGURE 2 ), but smaller. Internal genitalia with two pairs of spermathecae with irregular margins ( Fig. 2A View FIGURE 2 ). Measurements: total length 3.90; carapace 1.25 length, 1.34 width; abdomen 2.44 length, 1.25 width. Leg measurements: I 40.95 (9.61, 0.56, 9.94, 17.63, 3.21), II 21.67 (5.44, 0.53, 5.77, 8.33, 1.60), III 14.14 (4.08, 0.51, 3.41, 5.00, 1.14), IV missing.

Variation. Males: carapace 1.25–1.48 length, 1.30–1.52 width; femur I: 11.86, 12.31 (n = 3; leg I lost in one specimen). Females: carapace 1.10, 1.25 length, 1.02, 1.34 width; femur I: 9.61.

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected on a depression of the cave wall. The cave is located in the bamboo plant community of deciduous forest.

Althepus changmao Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 3–4 View FIGURE 3 View FIGURE 4 , 30 View FIGURE 30 , 32 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 33991), Thailand, Chiangmai , Tham (cave) Pha Daeng Cave, 19°30.187'N, 99°08.838'E, 577 m altitude, 27 June 2014 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 2 females, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 33992–33993). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is derived from the Chinese pinyin 'cháng máo', which means 'long bristle', referring to the long bristle of the male palpal tibia ( Fig. 3A View FIGURE 3 ); noun in apposition.

Diagnosis. The species resembles A. tibiatus Deeleman-Reinhold, 1985 (Deeleman-Reinhold 1985) in having the upward curling part of the distal conductor and one distinctively long bristle on the male palpal tibia ( Fig. 3C View FIGURE 3 ), and the spermathecae with many bifurcations in females ( Fig. 4A View FIGURE 4 ). Males of the new species can be distinguished by the jagged distal part of the conductor ( Fig. 3B View FIGURE 3 ), compared with the sharp distal part of the conductor in A. tibiatus . Females can be distinguished by two branches of the medial spermathecae ( Fig. 4A View FIGURE 4 ), compared with 3–4 branches of the medial spermathecae in A. tibiatus .

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 4.42; carapace 1.44 length, 1.62 width; abdomen 2.03 length, 1.10 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 4C View FIGURE 4 ), yellowish, with three longitudinal brown bands of different width. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang provided with 21 small denticles ( Fig. 30B View FIGURE 30 ). Labium brown. Sternum brown. Abdomen elongate, with complex patterns of white and brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown, femur and tibia with white annulations. Leg measurements: I 44.60 (10.83, 0.66, 11.22, 19.23, 2.66), II missing, III 26.58 (7.69, 0.64, 7.37, 9.28, 1.60), IV missing. Male palp ( Figs 3A–D View FIGURE 3 ): tarsus distinct, extends distally, with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of the cymbial protrusion (one of them missing, Fig. 3A View FIGURE 3 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 3A View FIGURE 3 ); tibia with one distinctively long bristle; bulb yellow, ovate; embolus arising prolatero-distally from bulb, slender and proximal part curved; conductor arising proximally from bulb, curved, with the distal part curling upward forming a groove; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance almost equal to diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 4D–E View FIGURE 4 ), but smaller. Internal genitalia with two pairs of spermathecae, curved, bifurcate, with a swollen distal part; the spermachecae left and right showing different number of branches ( Fig. 4A View FIGURE 4 ). Measurements: total length 3.36; carapace 1.05 length, 1.20 width; abdomen 2.13 length, 1.34 width. Leg measurements: I missing, II missing, III 11.52 (3.24, 0.49, 2.88, 3.80, 1.11), IV missing.

Variation. Females: carapace 1.05, 1.15 length, 1.19, 1.20 wide; leg I lost (n = 2).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected on the cave wall (high humidity in the cave).

Remark. A. changmao Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 101 ” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus dongnaiensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 5–6 View FIGURE 5 View FIGURE 6 , 30 View FIGURE 30 , 32 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 33994), Vietnam, Dong Nai Province, Cat Tien National Park, Natural Forest , 11°27.005'N, 107°21.863'E, 173 m altitude, 0 5 September 2015 GoogleMaps . Paratype: 1 female, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 33995). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all the other species by the wide, curved conductor and the arc-shaped margin of the distal conductor in males ( Figs 5A–D View FIGURE 5 ) and by one pair of distinctively curved spermathecae in females ( Fig. 6A View FIGURE 6 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 3.68; carapace 1.16 length, 1.13 width; abdomen 2.15 length, 0.90 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 6C View FIGURE 6 ), yellowish, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle one cleaved and shortened to form a triangular band around eyes. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 20 small denticles ( Fig. 30C View FIGURE 30 ). Labium brown. Sternum yellow, with two irregular brown lines each side. Abdomen elongate, with complex patterns of white and dark-brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown. Leg measurements: I 33.00 (8.00, 0.40, 8.00, 14.15, 2.45), II 21.45 (5.45, 0.40, 5.20, 8.70, 1.70), III 16.68 (5.00, 0.40, 4.49, 5.51, 1.28), IV 23.16 (6.86, 0.40, 6.41, 7.82, 1.67). Male palp ( Figs 5A–D View FIGURE 5 ): tarsus distinct, extends distally, with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of cymbial protrusion ( Fig. 5A View FIGURE 5 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 5A View FIGURE 5 ); bulb yellow, pyriform; embolus arising proximally from bulb, slender and curved ( Figs 5A–B View FIGURE 5 ); conductor arising distally from bulb, curved, distal part with a large lamina; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 6D–E View FIGURE 6 ), but larger. Internal genitalia with one pair of spermathecae, distinctively curved at almost a right-angle, distal part swollen ( Fig. 6A View FIGURE 6 ). Measurements: total length 3.84; carapace 1.19 length, 1.14 width; abdomen 2.33 length, 1.10 width. Leg measurements: I 16.40 (4.35, 0.40, 4.10, 6.05, 1.50), II 16.00 (4.25, 0.40, 4.00, 6.00, 1.35), III 10.75 (3.10, 0.40, 2.75, 3.50, 1.00), IV 19.57 (5.71, 0.40, 5.38, 6.41, 1.67).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected among tree buttresses at an altitude of 173 m.

Remark. A. dongnaiensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 282” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus guan Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 7–8 View FIGURE 7 View FIGURE 8 , 30 View FIGURE 30 , 32 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 33996), Indonesia, Sumatra, West Sumatra Province, Payakumbuh, Koto Tinggi Village, Imam Bonjol Cave , 00°03.824'S, 100°20.695′E, 949 m altitude, 17 May 2014 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 1 male and 1 female, same data as holotype ( IZCAS Ar 33997–33998). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is derived from the Chinese pinyin 'guǎn', which means 'tube', referring to the tube-like embolus ( Fig. 7D View FIGURE 7 ); noun in apposition.

Diagnosis. The species can be easily distinguished from all the other species by the tube-like ( Fig. 7D View FIGURE 7 ) and bifurcate ( Fig. 7B View FIGURE 7 ) embolus in males and one single pair of small spermathecae in females.

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 5.19; carapace 1.63 length, 1.64 width; abdomen 3.00 length, 1.38 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 8C View FIGURE 8 ), yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle band wider than the other bands. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 24 small denticles ( Fig. 30D View FIGURE 30 ). Labium brown. Sternum yellow, margin with a round of brown band. Abdomen elongate, with complex patterns of white and brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown, tibia with white annulations. Leg measurements: I missing, II 30.85 (7.69, 0.67, 7.69, 12.50, 2.30), III 18.70 (5.45, 0.65, 4.75, 6.60, 1.25), IV 27.35 (7.69, 0.67, 7.37, 9.62, 2.00). Male palp ( Figs 7A–D View FIGURE 7 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of the cymbial protrusion ( Fig. 7A View FIGURE 7 ); one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 7A View FIGURE 7 ); bulb bright yellow, ovate; embolus arising distally from bulb, curved, distal part with a slender furcation; conductor arising prolatero-distally from bulb, shorter than embolus; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 8D–E View FIGURE 8 ), but smaller. Internal genitalia with a pair of spermathecae, distal part swollen ( Fig. 8A View FIGURE 8 ). Measurements: total length 4.05; carapace 1.25 length, 1.33 width; abdomen 2.72 length, 1.50 width. Leg measurements: I missing, II missing, III 13.83 (3.85, 0.48, 3.45, 4.65, 1.40), IV 19.57 (5.51, 0.50, 5.38, 6.54, 1.64).

Variation. Males: carapace 1.24, 1.63 long, 1.28, 1.64 width; femur I: 8.97 (leg I lost in holotype).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected at a cave entrance at an altitude of 949 m.

Remark. A. guan Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 88” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus maechamensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 9–10 View FIGURE 9 View FIGURE 10 , 30 View FIGURE 30 , 32 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 33999), Thailand, Chiangmai Province , Mae Cham District, 18°31.677'N, 98°29.963'E, 1649 m altitude, 14 October 2014 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 1 male and 3 females, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34000–34003). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. The species resembles A. stonei Deeleman-Reinhold, 1985 (Deeleman-Reinhold 1985) and A. phadaengensis Li et Li sp. nov. ( Figs 16–17 View FIGURE 16 View FIGURE 17 ) in having a similarly shaped conductor and embolus in males and two pairs of spermathecae in females. Males of the new species can be distinguished by the shorter embolus and conductor, the shorter curved part of the conductor ( Fig. 9B View FIGURE 9 ), compared to the longer embolus and conductor, the longer curved part of the conductor in A. phadaengensis ( Fig. 16B View FIGURE 16 ), and by the sharp, upswept distal part of the conductor ( Fig. 9B View FIGURE 9 ), compared with the blunt, pendulous distal part of the conductor in A. stonei . Females can be distinguished by a more coiled spermathecae ( Fig. 10A View FIGURE 10 ), compared with the weakly twisted spermathecae in A. stonei , and by the lateral spermathecae having a more slender stalk than medial spermathecae, compared with the stalks of the spermathecae having the similar diameter in A. maechamensis ( Fig. 17A View FIGURE 17 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 4.74; carapace 1.72 length, 1.70 width; abdomen 2.68 length, 1.51 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 10C View FIGURE 10 ), yellowish, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle shortened to form a triangular band around eyes. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 23 small denticles ( Fig. 30E View FIGURE 30 ). Labium brown. Sternum brown, with one irregular longitudinal yellow line in the middle. Abdomen elongate, with complex patterns of white and dark-brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown, femur and tibia with yellow annulations. Leg measurements: I 33.01 (8.46, 0.69, 8.33, 13.29, 2.24), II 22.00 (6.09, 0.69, 5.71, 8.14, 1.37), III 15.07 (4.25, 0.67, 3.84, 5.06, 1.25), IV 22.30 (6.41, 0.70, 6.15, 7.44, 1.60). Male palp ( Figs 9A–D View FIGURE 9 ): tarsus distinct, extends distally and with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of cymbial protrusion ( Fig. 9A View FIGURE 9 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 9A View FIGURE 9 ); bulb yellow, ovate; embolus arising retrolatero-distally from bulb, proximal part flat and distinctly curved; conductor arising prolatero-distally from bulb, increasingly widening, curved at the distal part; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance almost equal to diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 10D–E View FIGURE 10 ), but smaller. Internal genitalia with two spermathecae sitting on long, slender stalks on each side ( Fig. 10A View FIGURE 10 ). Measurements: total length 3.72; carapace 1.19 length, 1.36 width; abdomen 2.18 length, 1.31 width. Leg measurements: I 23.42 (5.77, 0.53, 5.90, 8.97, 2.25), II 15.07 (4.00, 0.52, 3.75, 5.45, 1.35), III 10.92 (3.13, 0.50, 2.66, 3.48, 1.15), IV 15.33 (4.35, 0.53, 4.25, 5.00, 1.20).

Variation. Males: carapace 1.34, 1.72 length, 1.27, 1.70 width; femur I: 5.32, 8.46. Females: carapace 1.19– 1.30 length, 1.34–1.40 width; femur I: 5.32–5.90.

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected in a tropical forest at an altitude of 1649 m.

Remark. A. maechamensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 170” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus menglaensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 11–12 View FIGURE 11 View FIGURE 12 , 30 View FIGURE 30 , 32 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34004), China, Yunnan Province, Mengla County, Xiaolongha Village, Xishuangbanna Nature Reserve : Biological Diversity Corridor , Tropical Seasonal Rain Forest , 21°24.253′N, 101°36.324′E, 761 m altitude, 15 June 2013, S. Li leg. Paratype: 1 female, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34005). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all the other species by a ventral protrusion of the palpal tarsus ( Figs 11A–D View FIGURE 11 ) and the wave-shaped margin of the conductor ( Fig. 11B View FIGURE 11 ) in males.

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 3.60; carapace 1.47 length, 1.48 width; abdomen 2.10 length, 0.98 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 12C View FIGURE 12 ), yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle one wider than the lateral ones. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 21 small denticles ( Fig. 30F View FIGURE 30 ). Labium brown. Sternum brown with triangular yellow spots. Abdomen elongate, with complex patterns of white and dark-brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown. Leg measurements: I 28.83 (7.50, 0.55, 7.43, 11.35, 2.00), II 19.67 (5.38, 0.51, 5.04, 6.86, 1.88), III missing, IV 19.63 (5.51, 0.53, 5.64, 6.47, 1.48). Male palp ( Figs 11A–D View FIGURE 11 ): tarsus distinct, extends distally,with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of the cymbial protrusion ( Fig. 11D View FIGURE 11 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 11A View FIGURE 11 ); bulb yellow, ovate; embolus arising retrolaterally from bulb, short and straight; conductor arising distally from bulb, with the wave-shaped margin; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 12E–F View FIGURE 12 ), but larger. Internal genitalia with two pairs of spermathecae, long, curved, distal part spherical ( Fig. 12A View FIGURE 12 ). Measurements: total length 3.80; carapace 1.05 length, 1.23 width; abdomen 2.50 length, 1.65 width. Leg measurements: I missing, II missing, III 10.03 (2.75, 0.31, 2.82, 3.13, 1.02), IV missing.

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected among tree buttresses at an altitude of 761 m.

Remark. A. menglaensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 47” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus naphongensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 13–14 View FIGURE 13 View FIGURE 14 , 30 View FIGURE 30 , 32 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34006), Vietnam, Bac Kan Province, Ba Be National Park, Na Phong Cave , 22°23.392′N, 105°36.822′E, 179 m altitude, 20 May 2011 GoogleMaps . Paratype: 1 female, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34007). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the name of the cave where this species was found.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all other species by the slender male palp and the gradually widening conductor ( Figs 13C–D View FIGURE 13 ) in males and five rounded spermathecae sitting on long, slender stalks on right side (left side has six spermathecae, Fig. 14A View FIGURE 14 ) in females.

Description. Male (holotype): Total length -; carapace 1.33 length, 1.42 width; abdomen missing. Carapace round ( Fig. 14C View FIGURE 14 ), yellowish, with three longitudinal brown bands of different width, the middle shortened to triangular band around eyes. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 16 small denticles ( Fig. 30G View FIGURE 30 ). Labium brown. Sternum yellow, with two irregular brown lines on each side. Legs brown, femur and tibia with white annulations. Leg measurements: I 36.45 (8.97, 0.54, 8.78, 14.81, 3.35), II 22.67 (6.03, 0.53, 5.38, 8.65, 2.08), III 15.36 (4.24, 0.50, 3.97, 5.13, 1.52), IV 23.00 (6.73, 0.55, 6.28, 7.44, 2.00). Male palp ( Figs 13A–D View FIGURE 13 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of the cymbial protrusion ( Fig. 13A View FIGURE 13 ); one hooked spine with tip directed distally ( Fig. 13A View FIGURE 13 ); tarsus and tibia with many bristles ( Figs 13C–D View FIGURE 13 ); bulb bright yellow, ovate; embolus arising retrolaterally from bulb, short and slightly curved ( Fig. 13A View FIGURE 13 ); conductor arising retrolatero-distally from bulb, distal part gradually widening ( Figs 13C–D View FIGURE 13 ); embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Carapace similar to male in color and general features. Abdomen elongate ( Figs 14D–E View FIGURE 14 ), brown, with a yellow herringbone streak dorsally and some longitudinal yellow bands of different widths and lengths ventrally. Internal genitalia with five pairs of spermathecae, slender, distal part swollen (one side has six spermathecae, Fig. 14A View FIGURE 14 ). Measurements: total length 3.80; carapace 1.35 length, 1.48 width; abdomen 2.22 length, 1.28 width. Leg measurements: I 32.45 (7.95, 0.54, 8.15, 12.69, 3.12), II 20.83 (5.38, 0.53, 5.38, 7.56, 1.98), III 13.87 (3.85, 0.49, 3.65, 4.55, 1.33), IV 20.61 (5.77, 0.54, 5.83, 6.67, 1.80).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected on the cave wall.

Remark. A. naphongensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 50 ” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus natmataungensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 15 View FIGURE 15 , 30 View FIGURE 30 , 32 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34008), Myanmar, Chin State, Nat Ma Taung National Park, Road S of Nat Ma Taung Summit, Pristine Primary Forest , 21°12.479'N, 93°54.892'E, 2543 m altitude, P. Jäger leg., 16 May 2014. GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily recognized from all the other species by the bifurcate distal part of the conductor and the wavelike embolus ( Figs 15A–D View FIGURE 15 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 3.85; carapace 1.30 length, 1.38 width; abdomen 2.13 length, 1.19 width. Carapace rounded, yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands of different width, the middle one wider than the lateral ones. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 19 small denticles ( Fig. 30H View FIGURE 30 ). Labium brown. Sternum yellow, margin with brown band. Abdomen elongate, with complex pattern of white and brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown, femur and tibia with white annulations. Leg measurements: I 16.26 (4.50, 0.57, 4.10, 5.45, 1.64), II 15.88 (4.25, 0.56, 4.00, 5.45, 1.62), III 11.41 (3.20, 0.56, 3.00, 3.40, 1.25), IV missing. Male palp ( Figs 15A–D View FIGURE 15 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top (one of them missing, Fig. 15C View FIGURE 15 ) and one large hooked spine with tip directed distally ( Fig. 15A View FIGURE 15 ); bulb yellow, ovate; embolus arising distally from bulb, flat and wavy; conductor arising proximally from bulb, bifurcate; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female: Unknown

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected under leaf litter by hand and sieving.

Remark. A. natmataungensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 210” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus phadaengensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 16–17 View FIGURE 16 View FIGURE 17 , 31–32 View FIGURE 31 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34009), Thailand, Mae Hong Son Province, Muang District, Jumpae Subdistrict, Tham (cave) Pha Daeng Cave , 19°25.395'N, 97°59.057'E, 293 m altitude, 21 November 2016 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 3 males and 2 females, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34010–34014). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the cave in which the species was found.

Diagnosis. The species resembles A. stonei Deeleman-Reinhold, 1995 (Deeleman-Reinhold 1995) and A. maechamensis Li et Li sp. nov. ( Figs 9–10 View FIGURE 9 View FIGURE 10 ) in having a similarly shaped conductor and embolus in males and two pairs of spermathecae in females, but can be distinguished by the longer embolus and conductor, the longer curved part of the conductor ( Fig. 16B View FIGURE 16 ), compared with the shorter embolus and conductor, the shorter curved part of the conductor in A. maechamensis ( Fig. 9B View FIGURE 9 ), by the sharp, upswept distal part of the conductor ( Fig. 16B View FIGURE 16 ), compared with the blunt, pendulous distal part of the conductor in A. stonei in the males, and by the stalks of the spermathecae having the similar diameter, compared with the lateral spermathecae having a more slender stalk than medial spermathecae in A. stonei and A. maechamensis in the females ( Fig. 17A View FIGURE 17 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 4.25; carapace 1.44 length, 1.45 width; abdomen 2.34 length, 1.28 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 17C View FIGURE 17 ), yellowish, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle one shortened to form a triangular band around the eyes. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with one small tooth, posterior surface of fang with 24 small denticles ( Fig. 31A View FIGURE 31 ). Labium brown. Sternum brown. Abdomen elongate, with complex pattern of white and dark-brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown. Leg measurements: I 45.23 (9.74, 0.62, 11.86, 19.42, 3.59), II 29.75 (7.37, 0.59, 7.37, 12.18, 2.24), III 18.81 (5.58, 0.59, 4.95, 6.41, 1.28), IV 27.65 (8.14, 0.59, 7.56, 9.42, 1.94). Male palp ( Figs 16A–D View FIGURE 16 ): tarsus distinct, extends distally,with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of the cymbial protrusion ( Fig. 16A View FIGURE 16 ), one hooked spine with the tip directed towards proximally ( Fig. 16D View FIGURE 16 ); bulb bright yellow, ovate; embolus arising retrolatero-distally from bulb, slender and slightly curved; conductor arising prolatero-distally from bulb, long, increasingly widening and curved at the distal part; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance almost equal to diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 17D–E View FIGURE 17 ), but larger. Internal genitalia with two rounded spermathecae sitting on long stalks on each side ( Fig. 17A View FIGURE 17 ). Measurements: total length 4.55; carapace 1.36 length, 1.42 width; abdomen 2.81 length, 1.48 width. Leg measurements: I 41.15 (9.62, 0.56, 10.45, 17.31, 3.21), II 25.81 (6.35, 0.56, 7.69, 9.23, 1.98), III 15.93 (4.70, 0.53, 4.10, 5.32, 1.28), IV 22.70 (6.41, 0.56, 6.41, 7.37, 1.95).

Variation. Males: carapace 1.30–1.60 length, 1.42–1.50 width; femur I: 9.74–12.18. Females: carapace 1.36, 1.42 length, 1.33, 1.42 width; femur I: 9.62 (n = 2; leg I lost in the other specimen).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected on the wall near the entrance of cave.

Althepus shanhu Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 18–19 View FIGURE 18 View FIGURE 19 , 31–32 View FIGURE 31 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34015), Myanmar, Kachin State, Putao County, Hponkanrazi Wildlife Sanctuary Roadside , 27°36.550'N, 96°58.850'E, 2252 m altitude, 17 December 2016 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 1 male and 1 female, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34016–34017). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is derived from the Chinese pinyin 'shān hú', which means 'coral', referring to the female’s spermathecae looking like coral; noun in apposition.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all other species by many long bristles of the palpal tibia ( Figs 18C–D View FIGURE 18 ), the petaloid structures on the distal conductor as well as the short embolus in males ( Fig. 18B View FIGURE 18 ), and by many pairs of spermathecae in females ( Fig. 19A View FIGURE 19 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 4.00; carapace 1.48 length, 1.48 width; abdomen 2.28 length, 1.42 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 19C View FIGURE 19 ), yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle wider than the others. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang provided with 26 small denticles ( Fig. 31B View FIGURE 31 ). Labium brown. Sternum yellow, with many brown bands. Abdomen elongate, with complex patterns of yellow and brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown. Leg measurements: I missing, II 17.45 (4.80, 0.53, 4.75, 6.28, 1.09), III 12.17 (3.60, 0.53, 3.13, 3.80, 1.11), IV 18.20 (5.19, 0.51, 5.19, 6.03, 1.28). Male palp ( Figs 18A–D View FIGURE 18 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of the cymbial protrusion (one of them missing, Fig. 18A View FIGURE 18 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 18C View FIGURE 18 ); bulb bright yellow, ovate; embolus arising retrolatero-distally from bulb, short and straight ( Fig. 18B View FIGURE 18 ); conductor arising distally from bulb, wide, and some petaloid laminas arising distally; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 19D–E View FIGURE 19 ) but larger. Internal genitalia with many pairs of spermathecae, short, distal part swollen ( Fig. 19A View FIGURE 19 ). Measurements: total length 4.10; carapace 1.24 length, 1.41 width; abdomen 2.81 length, 2.05 width. Leg measurements: I missing, II 13.50 (3.60, 0.56, 3.68, 4.45, 1.21), III 10.31 (2.94, 0.54, 2.66, 3.00, 1.17), IV 14.57 (4.30, 0.56, 3.96, 4.35, 1.40).

Variation. Males: carapace 1.35, 1.48 length, 1.42, 1.48 width (leg I lost in all specimens).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected among tree buttresses at an altitude of 2252 m.

Althepus suayaiensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 20 View FIGURE 20 , 31–32 View FIGURE 31 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34018), Thailand, Tak Province, Phop Phra District, Mae Ku Subdistrict, Tham Sua Yai Cave , 16°40.336'N, 98°40.138'E, 466 m altitude, 14 November 2016 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 2 males, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34019–34020). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all other species by the irregularly serrate margin of the distal conductor and a small triangular protrusion on the middle part of the conductor in males ( Figs 20A–B View FIGURE 20 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 3.95; carapace 1.41 length, 1.36 width; abdomen 2.20 length, 1.13 width. Carapace round, light yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle one wider than the others. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 19 small denticles ( Fig. 31C View FIGURE 31 ). Labium brown. Sternum yellow, with two irregular brown lines on each side. Abdomen elongate, with complex patterns of white and dark-brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown. Leg measurements: I 33.12 (7.69, 0.56 8.34, 14.29, 2.24), II 21.86 (5.90, 0.55, 5.64, 8.14, 1.63), III 19.93 (4.00, 0.52, 5.64, 8.14, 1.63), IV missing. Male palp ( Figs 20A–D View FIGURE 20 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of the cymbial protrusion (two of them were missing, Fig. 20C View FIGURE 20 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 20A View FIGURE 20 ); bulb yellow, ovate; embolus arising distally from bulb, proximal part distinctly wide and slightly curved ( Fig. 20A View FIGURE 20 ); conductor arising distally from bulb, distinctly wide, middle and distal part with some small protrusions ( Figs 20A–B View FIGURE 20 ); embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female: Unknown

Variation. Males: carapace 1.13–1.41 length, 1.17–1.36 width, femur I 7.69–8.21.

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected on the cave wall. The cave is located in the bamboo plant community of deciduous forest.

Althepus tadetuensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 21–22 View FIGURE 21 View FIGURE 22 , 31–32 View FIGURE 31 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34021), Laos, Champasak Province, Tad E-tu, Vacation Villages and Houses , 15°11.527'N, 106°06.204'E, 889 m altitude, 17 November 2012 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 1 male and 1 female, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34022–34023). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. The species can be easily distinguished from all the other species by the four furcate distal part of the conductor in males ( Fig. 21D View FIGURE 21 ) and by one pair of long, slender spermathecae in females ( Fig. 22A View FIGURE 22 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 3.80; carapace 1.17 length, 1.30 width; abdomen 2.13 length, 1.06 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 22C View FIGURE 22 ), yellow, with four longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle one shortened to form a triangular band around the eyes. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 20 small denticles ( Fig. 31D View FIGURE 31 ). Labium brown. Sternum yellow, with two irregular brown lines on each side. Abdomen elongate, with complex pattern of white and dark-brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown. Leg measurements: I 32.08 (8.01, 0.40, 7.69, 13.08, 2.95), II 30.26 (7.82, 0.40, 8.01, 11.15, 2.88), III 13.70 (3.95, 0.40, 3.50, 4.50, 1.35), IV 19.90 (5.71, 0.40, 5.45, 6.67, 1.67). Male palp ( Figs 21A–D View FIGURE 21 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of the cymbial protrusion (one of them missing, Fig. 21C View FIGURE 21 ); one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 21A View FIGURE 21 ); bulb yellow, pyriform; embolus arising retrolaterally from bulb, slender and curved; conductor arising prolatero-distally from bulb, S-shaped, with a transparent lamina and three black divarications arising from distal part; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance almost equal to diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 22D–E View FIGURE 22 ) but smaller. Internal genitalia with a pair of spermathecae, distinctively long, curved, distal part swollen ( Fig. 22A View FIGURE 22 ). Measurements: total length 3.60; carapace 1.02 length, 1.33 width; abdomen 2.13 length, 1.09 width. Leg measurements: I 24.00 (6.41, 0.46, 6.54, 10.90, 2.69), II 17.92 (4.55, 0.46, 4.40, 6.09, 2.42), III 12.44 (3.38, 0.46, 2.97, 3.91, 1.72), IV 16.75 (4.81, 0.46, 4.49, 5.45, 1.54).

Variation. Males: carapace 1.13, 1.17 length, 1.22, 1.30 width; femur I: 8.01 (n = 2; leg I lost in one specimen).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected in a pit of the hill at an altitude of 889 m.

Remark. A. tadetuensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 25” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus tanhuang Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 23–24 View FIGURE 23 View FIGURE 24 , 31–32 View FIGURE 31 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34024), Thailand, Rayong Province, Kongdin Subdistrict, Phrayanak Cave , 12°46.000'N, 101°47.913'E, 0 m altitude, 0 9 November 2016 GoogleMaps . Paratype: 1 female, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34025). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is derived from the Chinese pinyin 'tán huáng', which means 'spring', referring to coiled, spring-shaped spermathecae ( Fig. 24E View FIGURE 24 ); noun in apposition.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all other species by the distinctly wide distal part of the folded conductor in male ( Fig. 23A View FIGURE 23 ) and by the spring-shaped spermathecae in female ( Fig. 24A View FIGURE 24 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 4.35; carapace 1.50 length, 1.70 width; abdomen 2.50 length, 1.70 width. Carapace round ( Fig. 24C View FIGURE 24 ), yellowish, with three longitudinal brown bands of different width, the middle shortened to triangular band around eyes. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang provided with 15 small denticles ( Fig. 31E View FIGURE 31 ). Labium brown. Sternum brown. Abdomen elongate, with complex patterns of white and brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown. Leg measurements: I missing, II 32.32 (8.65, 0.71, 8.53, 12.18, 2.25), III 22.84 (6.54, 0.70, 6.09, 7.88, 1.63), IV 32.63 (8.97, 0.71, 9.29, 11.54, 2.12). Male palp ( Figs 23A–D View FIGURE 23 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of cymbial protrusion ( Fig. 23C View FIGURE 23 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 23A View FIGURE 23 ); bulb yellow, ovate; embolus arising prolatero-distally from bulb, slender and curved ( Figs 23C–D View FIGURE 23 ); conductor arising retrolatero-distally from bulb, distinct wide and distal part gradually narrow ( Fig. 23A View FIGURE 23 ); embolus and conductor widely separated (the distance almost equal to diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in general features ( Figs 24D–E View FIGURE 24 ), but larger and darker. Internal genitalia with a pair of spermathecae, coiled, spring-shaped, the distal part swollen ( Fig. 24A View FIGURE 24 ). Measurements: total length 4.36; carapace 1.38 length, 1.48 width; abdomen 2.50 length, 1.20 width. Leg measurements: I missing, II missing, III missing, IV 16.09 (6.73, 0.56, 6.54, 8.01, 5.45).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected around the entrance zone of a limestone cave.

Althepus thanlaensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 25–26 View FIGURE 25 View FIGURE 26 , 31–32 View FIGURE 31 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34026), Thailand, Phitsanulok Province, Nakhothai District, Ban Kaset Sut Village, Tham (cave) Than La Cave , 16°54.816'N, 100°43.227'E, 510 m altitude, 17 October 2014 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 1 male and 2 females, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34027–34029). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all other species by the blade-like conductor ( Figs 25A–D View FIGURE 25 ) in males, and two pairs of similarly sized spermathecae in females ( Fig. 26A View FIGURE 26 ).

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 4.10; carapace 1.44 length, 1.53 width; abdomen 2.30 length, 1.22 width. Carapace rounded ( Fig. 26C View FIGURE 26 ), yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle one wider than the others. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 20 small denticles ( Fig. 31F View FIGURE 31 ). Labium brown. Sternum brown. Abdomen elongate, with patterns of white and brown dorsally and ventrally. Legs brown, femur and tibia with white annulations. Leg measurements: I 47.75 (10.90, 0.63, 11.54, 21.15, 3.53), II 26.97 (7.05, 0.63, 6.92, 10.13, 2.24), III missing, IV 26.17 (7.37, 0.60, 7.31, 8.97, 1.92). Male palp ( Figs 25A–D View FIGURE 25 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top of cymbial protrusion (one of them missing, Fig. 25A View FIGURE 25 ), one hooked spine with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 25A View FIGURE 25 ); bulb yellow, ovate; embolus arising distally from bulb, slender and slightly curved distally; conductor arising distally from bulb, blade-like and increasingly widening; embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 26D–E View FIGURE 26 ) but larger. Internal genitalia with two pairs of spermathecae, long, curved, distal part swollen ( Fig. 26A View FIGURE 26 ). Measurements: total length 4.50; carapace 1.36 length, 1.28 width; abdomen 2.78 length, 1.62 width. Leg measurements: I 38.06 (8.65, 0.57, 9.29, 16.34, 3.21), II 21.25 (5.77, 0.54, 5.64, 7.50, 1.80), III missing, IV - (6.03, 0.57, 5.96, 6.54, -).

Variation. Males: carapace 1.42, 1.44 length, 1.50, 1.53 width; femur I: 10.90 (n = 2; leg I lost in one specimen). Prosoma: females 1.36, 1.48 length, 1.28, 1.44 width; femur I: 5.77, 8.65.

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected on the cave wall.

Remark. A. thanlaensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 173” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus tharnlodensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 27 View FIGURE 27 , 31–32 View FIGURE 31 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: female (IZCAS-Ar 34030), Thailand, Phang Nga Province, Tap Pud District, Tham Thong Lang Subdistrict, Tharn Lod Cave , 08°31.138'N, 98 °33.915'E, 116 m altitude, 27 October 2014. GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the type locality.

Diagnosis. The species resembles A. lakmueangensis Li et Li, 2017 (Liu et al. 2017) and A. muangensis Li et Li, 2017 (Liu et al. 2017) in having one pair of spermathecae in females, but can be distinguished by the longer stalks of spermathecae ( Fig. 27A View FIGURE 27 ), compared with the shorter stalks of spermathecae in A. muangensis, and by the larger, arch-shaped pore plates ( Fig. 27A View FIGURE 27 ), compared with the smaller pore plates in A. lakmueangensis and A. muangensis in females..

Description. Female (holotype): Total length 3.80; carapace 1.18 length, 1.28 width; abdomen 2.13 length, 0.90 width. Carapace round ( Figs 27C–E View FIGURE 27 ), yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands of different widths, the middle one wider than the others. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with one tooth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 24 small denticles ( Fig. 31G View FIGURE 31 ). Labium brown. Sternum brown. Abdomen elongate, brown, with one longitudinal yellow band and two latitudinal yellow bands dorsally, and two narrow white bands ventrally. Legs brown, femur and tibia with white annulations. Leg measurements: I - (8.61, 0.53, 9.94, 22.44, -), II 22.72 (5.50, 0.50, 5.60, 9.62, 1.50), III 14.33 (4.00, 0.51, 3.75, 4.80, 1.27), IV 19.57 (5.77, 0.50, 5.51, 6.60, 1.19). Female epigyne as in Fig. 27A View FIGURE 27 . Internal genitalia with a pair of spermathecae, curved, distal part swollen, each side with a pore plate at its base.

Male: Unknown.

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected on the cave wall.

Remark. A. tharnlodensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 360” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

Althepus viengkeoensis Li et Li sp. nov.

Figs 28–29 View FIGURE 28 View FIGURE 29 , 31–32 View FIGURE 31 View FIGURE 32

Type material. Holotype: male (IZCAS-Ar 34031), Laos, Vien Tiane Province , Vang Vieng District , North of Vieng Keo Village, Lom Cave, 18°57.458'N, 102°26.245'E, 314 m altitude, 0 2 December 2012 GoogleMaps . Paratypes: 1 female, same data as holotype (IZCAS-Ar 34032). GoogleMaps

Etymology. The specific name is an adjective and refers to the type locality; adjective in genitive case.

Diagnosis. This new species can be easily distinguished from all other species by the depigmented carapace and a sigmoid conductor ( Fig. 28A View FIGURE 28 ) in males and one pair of duct-like spermathecae in female.

Description. Male (holotype): Total length 4.60; carapace 1.62 length, 1.80 width; abdomen 2.50 length, 1.63 width. Carapace rounded ( Fig 29A View FIGURE 29 ), light yellow, with three longitudinal brown bands, the middle shortened to form a triangular band around the eyes. Anterior margin of thoracic region distinctly elevated. Clypeus brown. Cheliceral promargin with two teeth, followed by a lamina, retromargin with two small teeth, posterior surface of fang with 22 small denticles ( Fig. 31H View FIGURE 31 ). Labium brown, with two light, round areas basally. Sternum brown. Abdomen elongate, brown, with a yellow humanoid streak dorsally and two yellow bands ventrally. Legs brown. Leg measurements: I missing, II missing, III - (6.54, -, -, -, -), IV - (8.59, 0.68, 9.68, -, -). Male palp ( Figs 28A–D View FIGURE 28 ): tarsus with three slightly curved, serrated bristles at the top ( Fig. 28A View FIGURE 28 ) and one hooked spine slightly bent with tip directed proximally ( Fig. 28A View FIGURE 28 ); bulb light yellow, ovate; embolus arising retrolatero-distally from bulb, slightly curved distally; conductor arising prolatero-distally from bulb, slightly curved, with distal part curling until it nearly closes ( Figs 28A–B View FIGURE 28 ); embolus and conductor widely separated (distance less than diameter of bulb).

Female (paratype): Similar to male in color and general features ( Figs 29D–E View FIGURE 29 ) but larger. Internal genitalia with a pair of spermathecae, slender, transparent ( Fig. 29A View FIGURE 29 ). Measurements: total length 4.84; carapace 1.50 length, 1.48 width; abdomen 2.60 length, 2.03 width. Leg measurements: I missing, II missing, III 18.22 (5.45, 0.65, 4.50, 6.09, 1.53), IV 24.47 (7.18, 0.67, 7.05, 7.69, 1.88).

Distribution. Known only from the type locality ( Fig. 32 View FIGURE 32 ).

Natural history. Collected on the wall deep in the cave.

Remark. A. viengkeoensis Li et Li sp. nov. was labeled as “sp. 22” in the analysis of Li and Li (2018).

IZCAS

Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences

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