Revision of theaureolusGroup of the GenusPhilodromus(Araneae: Thomisidae) in North America

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Abstract
Spiders of the genusPhilodromusWalckenaer have the flattened body and laterigrade legs of all Thomisidae, or crab spiders, yet lack most of the specializations of the more typical genera in the family. The latter, which comprise the subfamily Thomisinae, are characterized by strong, heavy bodies, prominent eye tubercles, a marked disparity between the length of legs I and II as opposed to that of III and IV, rotund abdomens, and a slow gait (Gertsch, 1939). InPhilodromusand throughout the Philodrominae we find a lithe, smooth body that is weakly spined and covered with soft, recumbent hair (Fig. 22). The legs are slender and nearly equal in lengh; These spiders typically lead an active, predatory life on surfaces and in crevices of woody plants. They are able to exploit this type of habitat largely because their legs are equipped with well-developed scopulae and claw tufts.