Pholcus knoeseli, WUNDERLICH, 1992

Dimitrov, Dimitar & Ribera, Carles, 2007, The genus Pholcus (Araneae, Pholcidae) in the Canary Islands, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society 151 (1), pp. 59-114 : 71-89

PHOLCUS KNOESELI WUNDERLICH, 1992 ( FIGS 62–79 )

Pholcus knoeseli Wunderlich, 1992: 320 , figs 156–164.

Material examined: 1 m, paratype, from Las Mercedes, Tenerife , Canary Islands, Spain, Knosel (in MNHN F08 iNr3) ; 4 mm, 1 f, 6 juv., El Bailadero , Tenerife, 22.ii.2002, Dimitrov, De Mas & Ribera ( CCRUB 4565-171 , 4566-171 , 4567-172 , 4568-171 ) ; 1 m, 1 juv., El Bailadero, Tenerife , 22.ii.2002, Dimitrov & Ribera ( CCRUB 4643-173 , 4644-173 ) ; 1 juv., Pico del Inglés , Tenerife, 21.viii.2003, Dimitrov & Antón ( CCRUB 4605–173 ) ; 1 f, Pico del Inglés , Tenerife, 21.viii.2003, Dimitrov & Antón ( ULL AÑ- 2152 ) .

Diagnosis: Distinguished from similar congeners ( P. roquensis and P. malpaisensis ) by the shape of the procursus, the width of its base and apical area considerably greater as compared with P. roquensis ; the small spine’s dorsal position on the procursus over its wider part ( Figs 71, 72 ); the shape of the uncus (much wider in P. malpaisensis ) as well as the appendix of the genital bulb ( Figs 63 , 70 ). The shape of the membrane at the embolus’ apex ( Fig. 73 ) is also a very useful tool for distinguishing this species from its similar congeners.

Description: Male: prosoma yellowish with dorsal marking, which in this species is divided in two large parts by the fovea, each part again subdivided in two. The marking has smooth and well-marked margins. Elevated ocular area with darker pigmentation surrounding the eyes. AME less than the half the diameter of ALE. Distance between AME and ALE equal to half the diameter of ALE. The area between the lateral triads and the dorsal part of the ocular area is covered by long hairs. Yellowish sternum with darker colouring in both its central part and borders. Chelicerae ( Figs 67 , 69, 74 ) brownish-yellow; distal cheliceral apophyses dark brown, with three bristles at their base and two modified hairs at the tip ( Fig. 77 ). Proximolateral apophyses overpass with their upper margins the base of the frontal prominences. Yellowish legs, slightly darker than prosoma. Palps yellowish with darker pigmentation across the heavily sclerotized areas. Palps as in Figures 62, 63, 66 . Procursus with large terminal apophysis featuring well-developed conical outgrowths ( Fig. 79 ). Apical apophysis of the procursus with two longer outgrowths at the two extremes, with numerous sharpened and shorter outgrowths between them ( Fig. 75 ). Cylindrical yellowish-grey opisthosoma with two lines of spots on its dorsal side. Each line has four spots with brown colouring and tear-like shape. The last spot in each line is much smaller, lighter and oval in shape. Ventrally, a darker coloured transverse line is visible in the genital area. Spinnerets ( Figs 76, 78 ) exhibit darker pigmentation at the base.

Female: prosoma as in male but with a less elevated ocular area and shorter hairs on its dorsal area. The dark marking on sternum much smaller and reduced to one longitudinal line. Chelicerae without apophyses. Opisthosoma more yellowish than in the male. The two lines of dorsal spots placed closer to each other, with the first pair joined in the middle resembling an inverted V. Epigynum and vulva as in Figures 64, 65, 68 .

Measurements: Male: Prosoma 1.8 long, 1.9 wide; opisthosoma 4.0 long, 2.0 wide. Total body length 5.9. Leg I, femur 13.8, patella 0.9, tibia 13.7, metatarsus 21.8, tarsus 2.9, total 53.1. Palp, femur 0.8, patella 0.2, tibia 1.1, procursus 1.2. Female: Prosoma 1.9 long, 2.0 wide; opisthosoma 5.1 long, 3.2 wide. Total body length 7.0. Leg I, femur 11.7, patella 0.7, tibia 10.7, metatarsus 17.8, tarsus 1.5, total 42.5.

Distribution: P. knoeseli is known to inhabit numerous localities in the Anaga zone on Tenerife Island ( Fig. 276 ).

Natural history: P. knoeseli lives under large rocks or in the cavities on the hillsides in the remnants of the humid laurisilva forest over the higher limits of the Anaga massif. The webs are built on the ceilings. As in P. gomerae the populations are often so dense that it is difficult to delimit individual webs.

PHOLCUS TENERIFENSIS WUNDERLICH, 1987

( FIGS 80–98 )

Pholcus tenerifensis Wunderlich, 1987: 79 , figs 84–92.

Material examined: 1 m, holotype, from Barranco del Infierno , Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain ( SMF 35553); 2 mm, 4 ff, 2 juv., Barranco del Infierno, Tenerife, 2.iii.2002, Dimitrov & De Mas ( CCRUB 4513-170 , 4514-170 , 4625-173 , 4665-173 ) .

Diagnosis. P. tenerifensis is easily distinguished from similar congeners, P. roquensis and P. knoeseli , by the shape of the procursus ( Figs 80, 84 , 89, 96 ), as well as by the shape of the apical apophysis of the procursus, which bifurcates near the base with one branch curved and much longer than the other ( Fig. 94 ). Other distinctive characteristics include the sharper angle of the uncus’ curvature ( Figs 81 , 91 ), the longer trochanteral apophyses, and the shape of the appendix of the bulb ( Figs 81 , 91 ). Distinctive characteristics for the female include the shape of the epigynal triangular plate, which is higher, and the morphology of the vulva ( Figs 83, 86 ).

Description: Male: prosoma rounded, yellowish in colour. Dorsally, with a zone of brownish pigmentation over the thorax. Well-marked, yellowish fovea, separates the brownish marking into two parts. Ocular area elevated with darker marking frontally. Ocular area surrounding the eyes has dark brown pigmentation. Distance between AME and ALE half the diameter of ALE. ALE diameter two-fold greater than diameter of AME. Yellowish sternum with brownish borders. Chelicerae darker than the rest of the prosoma, featuring dark brown distal cheliceral apophyses with bristles near their base. Distal apophyses with two modified hairs ( Fig. 88 ). Apex of proximolateral apophyses extends past the base of frontal prominences. Chelicerae as in Figures 85 , 87, 90 . Palps as in Figures 80, 81, 84 . Procursus very wide distally ( Fig. 89 ). Terminal apophysis of the procursus heavily sclerotized with well-developed conical outgrowth ( Figs 89, 95 ). Apical apophysis features one very long sharpened outgrowth and various shorter spines ( Fig. 94 ). Procursus with two retrolateral short spines ( Fig. 93 ). Tarsal organ as in Figure 98 . Opisthosoma yellow–brownish, cylindrical in shape. Dorsally, two longitudinal rows of darker spots are visible, each row comprising four spots, the last much smaller than the others. Ventrally, the genital area darker in colouring. Gonopore as in Figure 92 . Spinnerets with brownish margins. ALS as in Figure 97 .

Female: prosoma as in male but with lighter pigmentation. Ocular area less elevated; sternum has a darker central zone, the rest lighter than in the male. Chelicerae without apophyses and yellowish in colour. Shape and colour of opisthosoma as in male. Epigynum slightly elevated with triangular plate dark brown in colour. Epigynum as in Figures 82, 86 ; vulva as in Figure 83 .

Measurements: Male: Prosoma 1.3 long, 1.5 wide; opisthosoma 3.7 long, 1.5 wide. Total body length 5.0. Leg I, femur 11.2, patella 0.6, tibia 11.7, metatarsus 15.6, tarsus 1.5, total 40.6. Palp, femur 0.9, patella 0.2, tibia 0.9, procursus 1.0. Female: Prosoma 1.7 long, 1.9 wide; opisthosoma 4.6 long, 1.9 wide. Total body length 6.3. Leg I, femur 9.7, patella 0.8, tibia 10.7, metatarsus 16.6, tarsus 2.2, total 40.0.

Distribution: This species is only known to inhabit the Barranco del Infierno on Tenerife Island ( Fig. 276 ).

Natural history: P. tenerifensis lives under stones or in small cavities on the sides of the higher and more humid part of the Barranco del Inifierno. All specimens that we collected were found close to pools of water and in some cases on stones directly above.

Comments. P. tenerifensis is a member of the Tenerifean endemic complex. This species possesses some of the characteristics of this group: the terminal apophysis and the shape of the procursus’ apical apophysis are more fully developed. The closest species are P. roquensis and P. knoeseli .

PHOLCUS MASCAENSIS WUNDERLICH, 1987

( FIGS 99–117 )

Pholcus mascaensis Wunderlich, 1987: 81 , figs 118– 127 and 702.

Material examined: 1 m, holotype, from Barranco de La Masca , Tenerife , Canary Islands, Spain ( SMF 35559); 1 f, 1 juv., from Cueva de Chio, Tenerife, 24.ii.2002, Dimitrov & De Mas ( CCRUB 4682-173 , 4596-172 ); 1 juv., Cueva de Chio, 24.ii.2002, Dimitrov ( CCRUB 4683-173 ) ; 1 m, Cueva de Chio , 30.xi.1999, GIET (Grupo de Investigaciones Espeleológicas de Tenerife) ( CCRUB 4595-172 ) .

Diagnosis: P. mascaensis can be distinguished from its similar Canarian congeners, P. intricatus and P. roquensis , by the morphology of the apical apophysis of the procursus ( Fig. 111 ), which has a lamina shape with irregular margins and a longer ventral outgrowth ( P. intricatus is also lamina in shape but much narrower). The shape of the procursus is also different, while the uncus is thicker and more arched than in P. roquensis , and exhibits a more gradual curvature than in P. intricatus ( Figs 100 , 109 ). The position of the small teeth on the procursus is also different and a useful distinguishing trait. Distinctive characteristics of the female include the shape and colouring of the epigynum’s plate, which in P. mascaensis is much clearer, with a tiny darker band appearing only near the genital opening ( Figs 102, 103 ).

Description: Male: prosoma oval yellowish in colour. Dorsally, a brownish marking appears across the thorax, subdivided into four parts with irregular margins. In the central part of the thorax, the fovea crosses this marking. Eyes on elevated ocular area, surrounded by a darker pigmentation. AME very close together, the distance between them less than their diameter. Distance between AME and ALE equal to ALE’s diameter. Diameter of AME half the diameter of ALE. Sternum brownish with darker margins. Chelicerae darker than the prosoma. Distal cheliceral apophyses dark brown with a group of modified hairs near their bases (bristles), and two modified hairs at the apex. Upper margin of proximolateral apophysis extends to the base of the frontal prominence without passing over it. Chelicerae as in Figures 104 , 106, 107 . Palps as in Figures 99–101 . Distally, procursus wide ( Figs 110, 112, 115 ), with terminal apophysis and high conical elevation ( Fig. 111 ). Apical apophysis ( Figs 111, 116 ) of the procursus with a longer ventral outgrowth but a much shorter dorsal one. Between these outgrowths the apical apophysis features a cluster of short, sharpened endings ( Fig. 111 ). Bulbal projections as in Figures 108, 109 . Tarsal organ as in Figure 114 . Opisthosoma yellowish, with four darker dorsal spots, the first rectangular in shape, the second resembling an inverted V, the remaining two rounded and placed on either side of the opisthosoma’s central axis. Ventrally, the pigmentation clearer, with two longitudinal lines lacking hairs. Small darker marking appears over the genital zone. Gonopore as in Figure 113 . ALS as in Figure 117 .

Female: prosoma as in male but lighter in colour. Ocular area less elevated, with shorter dorsal hairs than in the male. Chelicerae without apophyses. Shape and colour of opisthosoma as in male. Ventrally, epigynum elevated. Epigynum and vulva as in Figures 102, 103, 105 .

Measurements: Male: Prosoma 1.0 long, 1.2 wide; opisthosoma 4.3 long, 1.5 wide. Total body length 5.3. Leg I, femur 9.0, patella 0.5, tibia 9.1, metatarsus 14.4, tarsus 35.4. Palp: femur 0.7, patella 0.2, tibia 0.7, procursus 0.8. Female: Prosoma 1.2 long, 1.3 wide; opisthosoma 4.9 long, 2.0 wide. Total body length 6.1. Leg I, femur 9.8, patella 0.6, tibia 10.7, metatarsus 16.1, tarsus 2.4, total 39.6.

Distribution: This species is known to inhabit Barranco de Masca and the Cueva de Chio cave on Tenerife Island ( Fig. 276 ). These two sites are located in close proximity and it is possible that this species is also endemic to the southern part of the island. P. mascaensis is endemic to Tenerife Island.

Natural history: P. mascaensis was only collected from Cueva de Chio. The cave is situated close to the type locality in a pine forest with very poor understorey vegetation. This species does not present any troglomorphic features and all specimens were collected at the entrance of the cave. Interestingly P. mascaensis construct its webs under large rocks on the cave floor close to the ground and not on the ceiling.

PHOLCUS ROQUENSIS WUNDERLICH, 1992

( FIGS 118–138 )

Pholcus roquensis Wunderlich, 1992: 322 , figs 170– 177.

Material examined: 1 m, holotype, from Cueva de los Roques, Tenerife, Canary Islans, Spain ( ULL T-CR- 55 ) ; 2 f, paratypes, same data as for holotype ( ULL T- CR-67 , T-CR-54 ) ; 2 f, same locality as for holotype, 27.ii.2002, Dimitrov & Ribera ( CCRUB 4652-173 , 4651-173 ) ; 1 m, same locality as for holotype, 24.ii.2002, Dimitrov & Ribera ( CCRUB 4676–173 ) ; 1 f, 1 juv., same locality as for holotype, 24.ii.2002, Dimitrov , De Mas & Ribera ( CCRUB 4569–172 ) ; 1 f, 1 juv., same locality as for holotype, ix.2003 and 23.x.1999, GIET ( Grupo de Investigaciones Espeleológicas de Tenerife ) ( CCRUB 4527-170 - 4528-170 ) ; 2 ff, same locality as for holotype, September 2003 and 23.x.1999, GIET ( ULL CR-C / AÑ-1266 ) ; 3 mm, 1 f, 1 juv., same locality as for holotype, 28.ix.2003, DZUL ( Departamento de Zoologia , Universidad de La Laguna) ( ULL AÑ-1489 ) ; 1 m, 3 juv., same locality as for holotype, 28.ix.2003, DZUL ( ULL AÑ-1511 ) .

Diagnosis: This species, although very similar to P. tenerifensis , is easily distinguished by several characteristics: the shape of its procursus, whose base is nearly as thick as the apical part; the shape of the apical apophysis of the procursus, having irregular in placement and size shorter ventral outgrowths ( Figs 134, 137 ). The shapes of the bulb’s appendix and uncus are also different, and are useful traits in identifying this species ( Figs 119 , 128 ). The female is distinguished by the shape of the triangular plate of the epigynum and the morphology of the vulva ( Figs 122, 124 ).

Description: Male: prosoma oval yellowish in colour. Dorsally, the area over the thorax is brownish in colour. Well-marked fovea dividing this brownish pigmentation in two parts. Eyes above an elevated ocular area; eye distribution typical of this genus – AME in the centre of the frontal ocular area, the rest in two lateral triads. All eyes surrounded by dark brown pigmentation. Diameter of ALE two-fold greater than that of AME. Distance between ALE and AME equal to the diameter of ALE. Between the lateral triads the ocular area features a small prominence. Sternum yellowish with darker margins. Chelicerae as in Figures 123 , 125, 126 . The distal cheliceral apophyses dark brown in colour with typical bristles near the base and two modified hairs at the tip ( Fig. 131 ). Upper margin of proximolateral apophyses does not extend to the base of the frontal prominences. Legs yellowish with femurs appearing darker ventrally. Palps as in Figures 118–120 . Distally, procursus wider, with terminal apophysis and a well-developed conical outgrowth ( Figs 129, 133–135 ). Procursus carries two small retrolateral spines ( Fig. 138 ). Between these spines passes a small ridge. Tarsal organ as in Figure 130 . Opisthosoma cylindrical with brownishyellow in colour. Dorsally, darker spots are visible, the first placed centrally in the shape of an inverted V, followed by four oval spots placed in two parallel lines. Ventrally, a darker line over the genital area is visible. Gonopore as in Figure 127 . Spinnerets darker at their bases. Spinnerets ultrastructure as in Figures 132, 135 .

Female: prosoma coloured as in male except for the smaller size of the brownish pigmented area over the thorax. Ocular area less elevated with the eyes closer together; chelicerae without sexual modifications. Sternum yellowish. Opisthosoma as in male but lighter in tone. Epigynum and vulva as in Figures 121, 122, 124 .

Measurements: Male: Prosoma 1.5 long, 1.9 wide. Opisthosoma 3.6 long, 1.7 wide. Total body length 5.1. Leg I, femur 10.3, patella 0.7, tibia 10.4, metatarsus 16.6, tarsus 1.5, total 39.4. Palp femur 0.9, patella 0.4, tibia 1.2, procursus 1.2. Female: Prosoma 1.7 long, 1.9 wide. Opisthosoma 4.5 long, 2.5 wide. Total body length 6.2. Leg I, femur 10.7, patella 0.7, tibia 10.3, metatarsus 16.1, tarsus 2.2, total 40.0.

Distribution: P. roquensis is only known to inhabit the Cueva de Los Roques cave on Tenerife Island ( Fig. 276 ).

Natural history: P. roquensis lives under large stones in the entrance of Cueva de Los Roques. This cave is situated in the Cañadas del Teide on the slopes of the Teide volcano at an altitude over 2200 m. The surrounding area has low vegetation cover with dominating small subalpine xerophytic shrubs. As in P. mascaensis , P. roquensis prefers to build its webs near the ground.

Comments: P. roquensis is a member of the Tenerifean Pholcus endemic complex. While this species has only been detected in the Cueva de Las Roques cave, it does not possess troglomorphic characteristics and it is possible that P. roquensis ’ actual distribution is wider. To confirm this, further sampling in similar areas is required.

PHOLCUS ORNATUS BÖESENBERG, 1895

( FIGS 139–159 )

Pholcus ornatus Bösenberg, 1895: 12 , fig. 14; Schmidt, 1977: 55, fig. 2; Wunderlich, 1980: 226, figs 23–30; Wunderlich, 1987: 82, figs 128–141, 701; Wunderlich, 1992: 321, fig. 169; Campos & Wunderlich, 1995: 294, fig. 3.

Material examined: 2 mm, 1 f, 2 juv., from Baranco de Agua, La Palma , Canary Islands, Spain, 14.viii.2003, Dimitrov, Anton & Txasko ( CCRUB 4669-173 , 4610- 173 , 4532-170 ) ; 2 mm, 2 ff, 1 juv., Cueva de San Marcos, Tenerife , Canary Islands, 21.ii.2002, Dimitrov & Ribera ( CCRUB 4570-170 , 4675-173 , 4609-173 , 4671- 173 ) ; 1 m, 2 ff, 1 juv., Tierra de Trigo, Tenerife , 23.ii.2002, Dimitrov & De Mas ( CCRUB 4571-172 , 4670-173 ) ; 1 m, 2 ff, Los Llanos, Tenerife , 11.iii.2002, Dimitrov, Ribera & De Mas ( CCRUB 4572-172 , 4654- 173 , 4653-173 ) ; 3 mm, 2 ff, Finca Kraft, Tenerife , 28.viii.2003, Txasko ( CCRUB 4611-173 , 4592-172 ) ; 3 ff, 29 juv, from Hermigua , La Gomera, Canary Islands, P. Oromi ( CCRUB 4511-170 - 4512-170 ) ; 2 mm, 3 ff, Hermigua , La Gomera, Canary Islands P. Oromi ( ULL AÑ-2157 ) ; 1 m, 1 juv., Barranco de los Gallegos , La Palma, Canary Islands, 18.viii.2003, Dimitrov & Txasko ( CCRUB 4531–170 ) ; 1 juv., Los Franceses, La Palma , 13.viii.2003, Dimitrov, Antón & Txasko ( CCRUB 4608-173 ) ; 1 f, San Bartolomé, Tenerife , 20.viii.2003, Txasko ( CCRUB 4640-173 ) , 1 f, San Benito, Tenerife , 27.viii.2003, Dimitrov & Txasko ( CCRUB 4655-173 ) ; 1 f, San Isidro, Tenerife , 25.i.2003, Txasko ( CCRUB 4641–173 ) ; and three specimens in the ULL ( ULL T-CV-30 , T-CV-33 , T-SM-24) .

Diagnosis: P. ornatus , P. corcho and P. calcar comprise a group of species that, morphologically, are very similar and difficult to distinguish individually. P. ornatus can be identified by the following characteristics: the procursus’ sharpened ( Fig. 152 ) and relatively tiny apical apophysis (viewed prolaterally); the larger inflatable area of the procursus, containing two small dark teeth ( Fig. 140 ); the shape of the uncus ( Figs 140 , 157 ); the shape of the appendix of the genital bulb ( Fig. 140 , 157, 158 ); and both the shape of the procursus’ dorsal apophysis, as well as the positioning of its dorsal spines. Females are distinguished by the shape of the triangular plate of the epigynum ( Fig. 143 ) and the morphology of the vulva ( Fig. 145 ).

Description: Male: prosoma oval, yellowish in colour, over the dorsal region with brownish pigmentation typical of this genus. The dorsal marking in this species starts at the dorsal region of the ocular elevation and extends over the thorax. Fovea well marked with darker pigmentation. The dorsal mark divided in four parts. Eyes on elevated ocular area. Distance between AME and ALE smaller than the diameter of ALE; separation between AME less than their diameter; diameter of AME half the diameter of ALE. All eyes surrounded by brownish pigmentation. Just beside the lateral triads are located two groups of long hairs forming longitudinal lines. Sternum yellowish with brownish margins. Chelicerae yellowish with dark distal cheliceral apophyses and bristles very close to their base. Distal apophyses with two modified hairs at the tip and a very short dorsal outgrowth ( Figs 149, 159 ). Upper margin of proximolateral apophysis ends at the base of the frontal prominence. Chelicerae as in Figures 144 , 147, 148 . Palps as in Figures 139–141 . Although in some specimens the procursus may have a third dorsal spine ( Wunderlich, 1992), the two-spine procursus is more common. The procursus’ apical apophysis possesses a few short, sharpened outgrowths ( Fig. 154 ). Apically, procursus has a very complex structure with numerous very short spines near the base of the dorsal apophysis ( Figs 151, 152, 154, 155 ). Opisthosoma yellowish with cylindrical shape. Dorsally, eight darker spots are grouped in two longitudinal lines. Ventrally, a darker line is visible over the genital area. Gonopore as in Figure 150 . Spinnerets as in Figures 153, 156 .

Female: prosoma as in male but with a less elevated ocular area. AME closer to the lateral triads than in male. Size of eyes in the triads smaller than in male. Diameter of AME one-third the diameter of ALE. Darker zone around eyes smaller. Chelicerae without apophyses. Opisthosoma with clearer pigmentation than in the male. Ventrally, epigynum slightly elevated, the triangular plate dark and strongly sclerotized. Epigynum and vulva as in Figures 142, 143, 145 .

Measurements: Male: Prosoma 1.4 long, 1.9 wide; opisthosoma 3.9 long, 2.2 wide. Total body length 5.8. Leg I, femur 11.0, patella 0.6, tibia 11.7, metatarsus 19.1, tarsus 2.4, total 44.8. Palp, femur 0.7, patella 0.2, tibia 0.8, procursus 0.9. Female: Prosoma 1.6 long, 1.9 wide; opisthosoma 4.1 long, 2.5 wide. Total body length 5.7. Leg I, femur 10.5, patella 0.5, tibia 10.7, metatarsus 16.6, tarsus 2.3, total 40.6.

Distribution: P. ornatus has the broadest distribution in the Canary Islands compared with the rest of the Canarian Pholcus species , and is spread throughout the entire archipelago ( Fig. 276 ) except for the two easternmost islands – Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. P. ornatus is well known for its synanthropic tendencies ( Campos & Wunderlich, 1995). It is possible that accidental transport by humans helped spread this species.

Natural history: P. ornatus is very common and easy to find in houses or other human constructions. It is also found in cavities on the walls of natural gorges like Barranco de Agua or near entrances of caves. It builds its web on ceilings of human constructions or natural cavities, near the ground under stones or other bulky materials (tree trunks, metal pieces, carton boxes, etc.) and in some cases on nearly vertical surfaces in narrow and humid places.

Comments: Despite P. ornatus ’ wide distribution in the archipelago, it has morphological characters common to species endemic to Gran Canaria. This suggests that P. ornatus most likely has its origins in Gran Canaria, having spread to the other islands by human transport.

Unfortunately we could not examine the type of P. ornatus but the numerous illustrations available in the literature (especially those in Wunderlich, 1987) are adequate to determine this species unequivocally.

PHOLCUS MULTIDENTATUS WUNDERLICH, 1987

( FIGS 160–176 )

Pholcus multudentatus Wunderlich, 1987: 84 , figs 150–156; Wunderlich, 1992: 321, figs 167, 168.

Material examined: 1 m, holotype, from Barranco de Fataga , Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain, Wunderlich ( SMF 35541) ; 1 m, 2 ff, paratypes, same data as for holotype ( SMF 35542) ; 2 mm, 3 ff, 1 juv., Gia , Gran Canaria, 5 May 2004, Dimitrov & Txasko (4649-173, 4650-173); 4 mm, 4 ff, Tamadaba, Gran Canaria ( CCRUB 4612-173 , 4551-171 , 4550-171 ) ; 1 m, from Cuevas Caidas , Gran Canaria 9.viii.2002, De Mas & Delgado ( CCRUB 4613-173 ) ; 3 mm, from El Juncal, Gran Canaria , 11.viii.2002, De Mas & Delgado ( CCRUB 4552-171 ) ; 2 mm, from Pinar de Pajonales , Gran Canaria, 11.viii.2002, De Mas & Delgado ( CCRUB 4553-171 ) ; 1 m, 1 f, from Punto de Granja , Gran Canaria, 5.viii.2002, De Mas & Delgado ( CCRUB 4656-173 ) .

Diagnosis: P. multidentatus differs from similar congeners ( P. helenae and P. calcar ) in the procursus’ bifurcated, membranous apical apophyses, which feature small outgrowths ( Fig. 175 ), and the shape of the uncus, which is arched without a clear inflection point ( Figs 161 , 171 ). The shape of the appendix of the bulb as well as the general morphology of the procursus is also different. The females are distinguished by the shape of the triangular plate of the epigynum ( Fig. 164 ) and the morphology of the vulva ( Fig. 166 ).

Description: Male: prosoma yellowish. Dorsally, two brownish markings are visible over the thorax, each marking subdivided into two parts with irregular margins. Fovea yellowish, centrally between the two markings. Eyes over an elevated ocular area. ALE, PLE and PME grouped into two lateral triads. Distance between AME smaller than their diameter. Diameter of ALE two-fold greater than that of AME, distance between them slightly larger than ALE diameter. All eyes surrounded by dark pigmented area. Sternum brownish-yellow with darker margins. Chelicerae ( Figs 165 , 167, 168 ) with yellow–brownish colour and with darker distal cheliceral apophyses situated very close to the cheliceral tooth. Distal apophyses with two modified hairs and very short conical outgrowth ( Fig. 169 ). Proximolateral apophyses with very narrow base and upper margin extending over the base of the frontal prominences. Frontal prominences with dark-coloured outgrowths. Palp as in Figures 160–162 . In this species the procursus features two dorsal spines ( Figs 172, 174 ). Apical apophysis of the procursus bifurcated with one shorter dorsal part and a longer ventral part ( Fig. 175 ). Lamellar ventral area with numerous short and sharpened outgrowths. Legs yellowish, darker than prosoma. Opisthosoma cylindrical yellowish in colour. Dorsally, eight brownish spots grouped in two longitudinal lines are visible. Ventrally, a small darker marking over the genital zone is visible. Gonopore as in Figure 170 . Spinnerets ultrastructure as in Figures 173, 176 ; darker margins visible when observed in alcoholpreserved specimens.

Female: prosoma as in male but with fewer hairs. Ocular area less elevated and eyes closer together. Distance between AME and ALE half the diameter of ALE. Chelicerae without apophyses. Shape and colour of opisthosoma as in male. Epigynum elevated with darker pigmentation. Triangular plate heavily sclerotized and dark brown in colour. Epigynum as in Figures 163, 164 . Vulva as in Figure 166 .

Measurements: Male: Prosoma 1.2 long, 1.5 wide; opisthosoma 4.1 long, 1.5 wide. Total body length 5.3. Leg I, femur 11.0, patella 0.7, tibia 12.7, metatarsus 21.1, tarsus 2.2, total 47.7. Palp: femur 0.8, patella 0.3, tibia 0.8, procursus 0.9. Female: Prosoma 1.5 long, 1.9 wide; opisthosoma 4.4 long, 2.4 wide. Total body length 5.9. Leg I, femur 11.7, patella 0.7, tibia 11.9, metatarsus 18.9, tarsus 1.5, total 44.7.

Distribution: This species is endemic to Gran Canaria where it is known to inhabit many different localities, including Barranco de Fataga, Barranco de Tirajana, Barranco de Tocadamon, Barranco de El Risco, Ayaguares and Santa Lucia ( Fig. 276 ).

Natural history: This species lives in natural cavities, very common on walls of the heavily eroded Gran Canarian ravines. It can be found in a wide range of altitudes starting from 300 m up to over 1000 m. In the low limit of its distribution P. multidentatus was collected in humid locations, often near palm trees or small gardens which were artificially watered. The specimens found at high altitude live in pine forest close to small temporal ponds of water.

PHOLCUS HELENAE WUNDERLICH, 1987

( FIGS 177–194 )

Pholcus helenae Wunderlich, 1987: 85 , figs 165–173; Wunderlich (1995): 419, figs 35, 36.

Material examined: 1 m, holotype, from Barranco Suage , Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain ( SMF 35536) ; 2 mm, 9 ff, 2 juv., from Barranco de los Tilos, Gran Canaria, 10.viii.2002, De Mas & Delgado ( CCRUB 4515-170 , 4516-170 , 4518-170 , 4623- 173 , 4657-173 ) ; 1 m, 4 ff, from Barranco Oscuro , Gran Canaria, 14.xii.2003, H. Lopez ( ULL AÑ- 1600 ) ; 1f and 1juv., from Barranco Oscuro, Gran Canaria, 14.xii.2003, H. Lopez ( ULL AÑ-2148 ) ; 1 m, 1 f, 1 juv., from Embalse Perez and 2 ff from Fontanales, Gran Canaria ( CCRUB 4519-170 , 4624-173 , 4517-170 ) .

Diagnosis: Distinguished from similar congeners ( P. corcho and P. multidentatus ) by the following characteristics: the more chitinized apical apophyses of the procursus featuring only two very short outgrowths ( Fig. 194 ); the shape of the appendix of the male bulb ( Figs 178 , 192 ); the procursus’ smaller dorsal apophysis and the positioning of its dorsal spines ( Figs 177 , 189, 191 ); the general morphology of the procursus ( Figs 177, 179 , 191 ) and the longer and more curved trochanteral apophysis. The female is easily distinguished from the rest of the Canarian Pholcus species by the high triangular plate of the epigynum ( Fig. 181 ) and the morphology of the vulva.

Description: Male: prosoma oval with a pale, yellowish colour. Dorsally, a brownish marking visible over the thorax. Ocular area elevated, the eyes surrounded by a zone of brownish pigmentation. In the AME zone, this pigmentation has the shape of a transversal band. ALE diameter three-fold greater than that of AME. Distance between AME slightly larger than their diameter, and the distance to ALE nearly twice the diameter of ALE. Sternum yellowish with brownish margins. A lighter area is visible directly in front of each coxal joint. Chelicerae ( Figs 182 , 184, 185 ) brownish, featuring darker distal apophyses with bristles at their base. Distal apophyses possess two modified hairs ( Fig. 186 ). Upper margin of proximolateral apophyses extends to the base of the frontal prominences, which are marked by short darker outgrowths. Palps as in Figures 177–179 . Procursus ( Figs 189, 191 ) two dorsal spines. Dorsal apophysis of the procursus with numerous small spines ( Fig. 187 ), and the apical apophysis with two very short outgrowths ( Figs 190, 194 ). Embolus features a wider apical area with small teeth ( Fig. 193 ). Opisthosoma cylindrical with brownish-yellow colouring. Dorsally with eight darker spots divided in two longitudinal parallel rows of four spots each. Ventrally, opisthosoma appears lighter in colour. Genital zone darker. Spinnerets with brownish spots.

Female: prosoma as in male but with a less elevated ocular area. AME closer to the lateral triads, with the distance between them and ALE equal to the ALE diameter. Sternum lighter than in male. Shape and colouring of opisthosoma as in male. Ventrally, the triangular plate of the epigynum appears very high and the genital area elevated. Epigynum and vulva as in Figures 180, 181, 183 . Chelicerae without sexual modifications.

Measurements: Male: Prosoma 1.5 long, 1.7 wide. Opisthosoma 4.2 long, 1.9 wide. Total body length 5.7. Leg I femur 12.2, patella 0.8, tibia 12.7, metatarsus 21.5, tarsus 2.4, total 49.6. Palp femur 0.7, patella 0.2, tibia 1.0, procursus 0.9. Female: Prosoma 1.5 long, 1.9 wide. Opisthosoma 4.8 long, 1.7 wide. Total body length 6.3. Leg I femur 10.2, patella 0.7, tibia 11.2, metatarsus 21.0, tarsus 2.5, total 45.6.

Distribution: This species is endemic to Gran Canaria where it is known to inhabit such localities as Barranco de los Tilos, Embalse Perez and Fontanales ( Fig. 276 ).

Natural history: P. helenae lives in the last remnants of laurisilva forest on the island of Gran Canaria where it is found in natural cavities in humid places with limited sunlight.

Figures

Figure 276. Known distribution of Pholcus species endemic to the Canary archipelago.

Figures 62–68. Pholcus knoeseli: 62, male palp, prolateral; 63, male palp, retrolateral; 64, epigynum, lateral; 65, vulva, dorsal; 66, male palp, frontal; 67, male chelicerae, frontal; 68, epigynum, ventral. Scale bars 0.2 mm.

Figures 69–79. Pholcus knoeseli: 69, male chelicerae, frontal; 70, projections of the bulb, retrolateral; 71, short spines of the procursus, retrolateral; 72, short spines of the procursus, prolateral; 73, embolus; 74, male chelicerae, lateral; 75, apical apophysis of the procursus, ventral; 76, posterior median spinnerets; 77, distal apophysis of male chelicerae; 78, anterior lateral spinnerets; 79, procursus, prolateral. Scale bars: 69, 70, 74, 79, 200 µm; 71, 72, 75, 100 µm; 78, 50 µm; 76, 77, 20 µm.

Figures 80–86. Pholcus tenerifensis: 80, male palp, prolateral; 81, male palp, retrolateral; 82, epigynum, lateral; 83, vulva, dorsal; 84, male palp, frontal; 85, male chelicerae, frontal; 86, epigynum, ventral. Scale bars 0.2 mm.

Figures 87–98. Pholcus tenerifensis: 87, male chelicerae, frontal; 88, distal apophysis of male chelicerae, frontal; 89, male palp, prolateral; 90, male chelicerae, lateral; 91, projections of the bulb, prolateral; 92, male gonopore, ventral; 93, small retrolateral teeth of the procursus, retrolateral; 94, apical apophysis of the procursus, ventral; 95, procursus, dorsoretrolateral; 96, procursus, retrolateral; 97, anterior lateral spinnerets; 98, male tarsal organ. Scale bars: 87, 90, 91, 95, 96, 200 µm; 92 and 94, 100 µm; 88, 93, 97, 50 µm; 89, 500 µm; 98, 20 µm.

Figures 99–105. Pholcus mascaensis: 99, male palp, prolateral; 100, male palp, retrolateral; 101, male palp, frontal; 102, epigynum, lateral; 103, epigynum, ventral; 104, male chelicerae, frontal; 105, vulva, dorsal. Scale bars 0.2 mm.

Figures 106–117. Pholcus mascaensis: 106, male chelicerae, frontal; 107, male chelicerae, lateral; 108, projections of the bulb, ventral; 109, projections of the bulb, retrolateral; 110, apex of the procursus, retrolateral; 111, apical apophysis of the procursus, ventral; 112, procursus, dorsal; 113, male gonopore, ventral; 114, male tarsal organ; 115, male palp, prolateral; 116, terminal apophysis of the procursus, ventro-prolateral, 117, anterior lateral spinnerets. Scale bars: 106–109, 115, 200 µm; 110, 111, 116, 100 µm; 113, 114, 50 µm; 117, 20 µm.

Figures 118–124. Pholcus roquensis: 118, male palp, prolateral; 119, male palp, retrolateral; 120, male palp, frontal; 121, epigynum, lateral; 122, epigynum, ventral; 123, male chelicerae, frontal; 124, vulva, dorsal. Scale bars 0.2 mm.

Figures 125–138. Pholcus roquensis: 125, male chelicerae, frontal; 126, male chelicerae, lateral; 127, male gonopore, ventral; 128, projections of the bulb, retrolateral; 129, procursus, dorsal; 130, male tarsal organ; 131, distal apophysis of male chelicerae; 132, anterior lateral spinnerets; 133, procursus, prolateral; 134, procursus, ventral; 135, posterior median spinnerets; 136, distal part of the procursus, retrolateral; 137, apical apophysis of the procursus, ventral; 138, small retrolateral teeth of the procursus, retrolateral. Scale bars: 125, 126, 128, 129, 133, 134, 136, 200 µm; 127, 137, 138, 100 µm; 130–132, 50 µm; 135, 20 µm.

Figures 139–145. Pholcus ornatus: 139, male palp, prolateral; 140, male palp, retrolateral; 141, male palp, frontal; 142, epigynum, lateral; 143, epigynum, ventral; 144, male chelicerae, frontal; 145, vulva, dorsal. Scale bars 0.2 mm.

Figures 146–159. Pholcus ornatus: 146, granulation of the appendix of the bulb; 147, male chelicerae, frontal; 148, male chelicerae, lateral; 149, distal apophyses of male chelicerae, frontal; 150, male gonopore, ventral (Dimitrov & Ribera, 2005a); 151, procursus, retrolateral, arrow points the small teeth near the base of the dorsal apophysis of the procursus; 152, procursus, prolateral; 153, posterior median spinnerets; 154, procursus, ventral; 155, dorsal apophysis of procursus, retrolateral; 156, anterior lateral spinnerets; 157, projections of the bulb, retrolateral; 158, apexes of bulbal projections; 159, male distal cheliceral apophysis, retrolateral. Scale bars: 147, 148, 151, 152, 154, 155, 158, 200 µm; 149, 146, 50 µm; 150, 100 µm; 153, 156, 159, 20 µm.

Figures 160–166. Pholcus multidentatus: 160, male palp, prolateral; 161, male palp, retrolateral; 162, male palp, frontal; 163, epigynum, lateral; 164, epigynum, ventral; 165, male chelicerae, frontal; 166, vulva, dorsal. Scale bars 0.2 mm.

Figures 167–176. Pholcus multidentatus: 167, male chelicerae, frontal; 168, male chelicerae, lateral; 169, distal apophysis of male chelicerae; 170, male gonopore, ventral; 171, projections of the bulb, retrolateral; 172, procursus, retrolateral; 173, posterior median spinnerets; 174, dorsal apophysis of the procursus, dorsal; 175, apical apophysis of the procursus, ventral; 176, anterior lateral spinnerets. Scale bars: 167, 168, 171, 174, 200 µm; 170, 172, 175, 100 µm; 169, 173, 20 µm; 176, 50 µm.

Figures 177–183. Pholcus helenae: 177, male palp, prolateral; 178, male palp, retrolateral; 179, male palp, frontal; 180, epigynum, lateral; 181, epigynum, ventral; 182, male chelicerae, frontal; 183, vulva, dorsal. Scale bars 0.2 mm.

Figures 184–194. Pholcus helenae: 184, male chelicerae, frontal; 185, male chelicerae, lateral; 186, distal apophysis of male chelicerae, frontal; 187, dorsal apophysis of procursus, dorso-retrolateral; 188, projections of the bulb, retrolateral; 189, procursus, retrolateral; 190, apex of the procursus, retrolateral; 191, procursus, retrolateral; 192, appendix of the male bulb, prolateral; 193, apex of the embolus, retrolateral; 194, apical apophysis of the procursus, ventral. Scale bars: 184, 189, 191, 194, 200 µm; 187, 190, 192, 193, 100 µm; 186, 50 µm.