Rotundrela orbiculata


Rotundrela orbiculata is a species of spider in the family Zodariidae. It is endemic to the Western Cape province of South Africa and is commonly known as the Cederberg Rotundrela zodariid spider.

Distribution

Rotundrela orbiculata is found in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape, with records from Cederberg Wilderness Area, Clanwilliam, and Pakhuis Pass.

Habitat

The species inhabits the Fynbos biome at altitudes ranging from 78 to 1,530 m above sea level.

Description

Both sexes of Rotundrela orbiculata are known. Males have a total length of 5.40 mm with a reddish brown carapace and orange chelicerae. The abdomen displays a pale pattern on a dark background with distinctive kidney-shaped patches and rounded spots. Females reach 6.24 mm in total length with an orange carapace and sternum that have dark rims.

Ecology

Rotundrela orbiculata are free-running ground-dwelling spiders that are collected from litter and occasionally with pitfall traps.

Conservation

The species is considered Rare due to its small restricted distribution range. It receives protection in the Cederberg Wilderness Area.