Female holotype: Afrarchaea fisheri Lotz, 2003, from Fianarantsoa, Reserve Andringitra, 8.5 km SE Antanitotsy, 22°10'S, 46°58'E, 1990 m, 6 Mar 1997, rainforest, sifted litter, B.L. Fisher (examined, deposited in CAS, CASENT9012340).

Other material examined: MADAGASCAR: 1M, Fianarantsoa, Reserve Andringitra, 38 km S Ambalavo, 22°12'S, 46°58'E, 1680 m, 23 Oct 1993, rainforest, sifted litter, B.L. Fisher (CASENT9018939); 1F, Fianarantsoa, Res. Special Ivohibe, 8.0 km E Ivohibe, 22°29.0'S, 46°58.1'E, 1200 m, 15–21 Oct 1997, forest, leaf litter, B.L. Fisher (CASENT9012344).

Males are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species except E. harveyi sp. n., E. goodmani sp. n., and E. wunderlichi sp. n., by having the pedipalpal tegulum of the “workmani group” form, with the apical conductor encircling a pit-like cavity (Fig. 9D–L). Males are distinguished from E. goodmani sp. n., E. harveyi sp. n. and E. wunderlichi sp. n. by having an s-shaped embolus (Fig. 9E, H, K–L). Females are distinguished from the “bourgini group” except for E. goodmani sp. n. and E. wunderlichi sp. n. by having a bursa with two large groups of poreplates on a sclerotized plate that covers the ventral side of the bursa (Fig. 9C). In contrast, in other “bourgini group” species the poreplates are in smaller clusters on the anterior side of the bursa. Females are distinguished from E. goodmani sp. n. by having a thinner posterior bar (Fig. 11C), and from E. wunderlichi sp. n. by lacking the large bulge in the center of the posterior bar (Fig. 12B). Females are indistinguishable from E. harveyi sp. n.

Female holotype (CASENT9012340, from Reserve Andringitra, Madagascar). This specimen was damaged during shipping so that the “head” is broken off from the “neck,” rendering some measurements impossible. Total length 2.38, carapace 1.11 long, 0.98 wide. Abdomen 1.16 long, 1.17 high. Carapace tilt height (CtH) 1.61, head length 0.98, carapace tilt angle, carapace constriction, and neck length unknown due to damage. CtH divided by carapace length 1.45. Cephalon with AME virtually flush with surrounding cuticle, and with a single pair of short modified spines at the apex (Fig. 9A). Chelicerae 1.86 long, and with a long spine 0.21 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular to the cheliceral cuticle. Femur I 1.73 long. Sternum 0.72 long, 0.47 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs reddish brown with white setae, but reduced numbers compared to other Eriauchenius. All patella lighter in color, being more yellowish white. Abdomen mottled brown and beige, with tufts of white setae, although reduced in number compared to other Eriauchenius (Fig. 9A). Genitalia with a noncomplex FSGP, with posterior bar (not visible in Fig. 9B, but similar to Fig. 11B–C), and with “wings” reduced and nearly transparent, with poreplates in two large groups, divided down the middle and on a sclerotized plate that covers the ventral side of the bursa (Fig. 9C, similar to Fig. 11C).

Male paratype (CASENT9018939). Total length 2.18, carapace 1.01 long, 0.92 wide. Abdomen 1.13 long, 1.16 high. Carapace tilt angle 79.9°, tilt height (CtH) 1.53, constriction 0.65, head length 0.91, neck length 0.72 . CtH divided by carapace length 1.51. Cephalon as in female. Chelicerae 1.58 long, and with long spine 0.20 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular. Femur I 1.64 long. Sternum 0.65 long, 0.44 wide. Colors as in female. Pedipalpal tegulum of the “workmani group” form, with apical conductor encircling a pit-like cavity (Fig. 9D–L). Conductor tip tapering off into a sharp point (Fig. 9F,I,L). MA trifurcating into three prongs (Fig. 9E, H, L), and with a sclerite (SC) that may be part of the conductor, thicker and more sclerotized than the transluscent thin structure seen in the “workmani group” (Fig. 9E, H). Embolus dark, wire-like and with two curves making an “s” shape (Fig. 9E, H, K–L).

Figure 9. 

Eriauchenius fisheri (Lotz, 2003). A male (CASENT9018939) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (holotype, CASENT9012340) internal genitalia B dorsal view C anterior view D–L male pedipalpal bulbs (CASENT9018939) D–F, L right bulb, image reversed G–K left bulb D, G, J prolateral view E, H, K ventral view F, I retrolateral view K close-up, ventral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

Total length 2.69–2.38 (females; n=2); Carapace length 1.11–1.17 (females; n=2); Femur I 1.48–1.55 times the length of carapace in females (n=2). CtH divided by carapace length 1.45–1.52 in females (n=2). Average femur I length 1.69 (females; n=2). For female CASENT9012344, carapace tilt angle 80.4, carapace constriction 0.83, and neck length 0.87.

Specimens were collected in rainforest in the leaf litter from 1200–1990 m in elevation.

Known only from around Andringitra Massif in southeast Madagascar (Fig. 31).

Distributions of E. fisheri and E. harveyi sp. n. are in close proximity, however, E. fisheri seems to occur at higher elevations than E. harveyi sp. n. Furthermore, E. fisheri is slightly larger than E. harveyi sp. n. Male and female conspecifics were associated based on these factors, but due to the small number of specimens available, this association may be incorrect. Future molecular work as well as additional collection of specimens from more localities can help resolve this issue.

Male holotype: MADAGASCAR, Toliara, Réserve Naturelle Intégrale d’Andohahela, parcel 1, 15.0 km NW Eminiminy, camp 4, 24°34.2’S, 46°43.9’E, 1500 m, 17–27 Nov 1995, Steve Goodman (deposited in FM).

Female paratype, same data as holotype, except 20.0 km SE Andranondambo, camp 5, 24°33.7’S, 46°43.3’E, 1875 m, 27 Nov – 5 Dec 1995 (FM).

The specific name is a patronym to honor Dr. Steven Goodman, who collected the specimens and for his extensive work on Madagascar’s biodiversity.

Males are distinguished from other “bourgini-group” species except E. harveyi sp. n., E. fisheri, and E. wunderlichi sp. n., by having the pedipalpal tegulum of the “workmani group” form (Fig. 10E), with the apical conductor encircling a pit-like cavity (Fig. 10D–E). Males are distinguished from E. harveyi sp. n., E. fisheri, and E. wunderlichi sp. n., by the conductor being greatly elongated and blunt at the tip (Fig. 10F). Females are distinguished from “bourgini group” species, except E. harveyi sp. n., E. fisheri, and E. wunderlichi sp. n., by having a bursa with two large groups of poreplates on a sclerotized plate that covers the ventral side of the bursa (Fig. 10C), whereas in other “bourgini group” species the poreplates are in smaller cluster on the anterior side of the bursa. Females are distinguished from E. harveyi sp. n. and E. fisheri, by having a thicker posterior bar on the internal genitalia (Fig. 10B), and distinguished from E. wunderlichi sp. n. females by lacking the large bulge in the center of the posterior bar (Fig. 12B).

Figure 10. 

Eriauchenius goodmani sp. n. A male (holotype, Field Museum) habitus, lateral view B–C female (Field Museum) genitalia B dorsal view C ventral view D–F male left pedipalpal bulb (holotype, Field Museum) D prolateral view E ventral view F retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

Male holotype (FM, from Réserve Naturelle Intégrale d’Andohahela, Madagascar). Total length 2.62, carapace 1.01 long, 0.87 wide. Abdomen 1.34 long, 1.40 high. Carapace tilt angle 72.2°, tilt height (CtH) 1.62, constriction 0.64, head length 0.81, neck length 0.80. CtH divided by carapace length 1.60. Cephalon with AME virtually flush with surrounding cuticle, and with a single pair of short modified spines at the apex (Fig. 12A). Chelicerae 1.65 long, and with long spine 0.23 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular to the cheliceral cuticle (Fig. 10A). Femur I 2.10 long. Sternum 0.73 long, 0.45 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs reddish brown with white setae. Abdomen mostly yellowish white, but mottled with light brown, interspersed with brown setae (Fig. 10A). Pedipalpal tegulum of the “workmani group” form, with apical conductor encircling a pit-like cavity (Fig. 10D–F). Conductor tip elongated with a blunt tip (Fig. 10F). MA not present, but SC present and heavily sclerotized and thicker than the transluscent thin structure seen in the “workmani group” (Fig. 10E). Embolus dark, thick, and notched at tip where the opening occurs (Fig. 10D).

Female paratype (FM, from Réserve Naturelle Intégrale d’Andohahela, Madagascar). The cephalon is damaged in this specimen making the head length measurement and cephalon spine count impossible. Total length 3.42, carapace 1.57 long, 1.38 wide. Abdomen 1.70 long, 1.88 high. Carapace tilt angle 65.6°, tilt height (CtH) 2.41, constriction 0.91, neck length 1.34. CtH divided by carapace length 1.54. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 2.87 long, and with long spine 0.20 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular. Femur I 2.84 long. Sternum 1.00 long, 0.59 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs reddish brown with white setae. Abdomen darker than the male, mottled with dark brown areas and lighter yellowish areas, interspersed with brown setae. Genitalia with a noncomplex FSGP, with posterior bar, “wings” present but translucent, with poreplates in two large groups, divided down the middle and on a sclerotized plate that covers the ventral side of the bursa (Fig. 10B–C).

Figure 11. 

Eriauchenius harveyi sp. n. A male (holotype, CASENT9012110) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (CASENT9012342) genitalia B dorsal view C ventral view D–K male pedipalpal bulbs (CASENT9012109) D–F right bulb, image reversed G–K left bulb D, G, J prolateral view E, H, K ventral view F, I retrolateral view L male (CASENT9012109), arrow showing the long cheliceral seta that projects perpendicularly from the chelieral cuticle, lateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

Figure 12. 

Eriauchenius wunderlichi sp. n. A female (CASENT9062648) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (CASENT9062648) genitalia B dorsal view, arrow showing the large bulge on the posterior bar C ventral view D–F male left pedipalpal bulb (holotype, CASENT9062702) D prolateral view E ventral view F retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

no other known material.

Specimens were collected in rainforest from 1500–1875 m in elevation.

Known only from Réserve Naturelle Intégrale d’Andohahela in southeast Madagascar (Fig. 31).

Male holotype: Madagascar, Fianarantsoa, Massif Andringitra, 43 km S Ambalavo, 22°14'S, 47°00'E, 825 m, 4 Oct 1993, rainforest, sifted litter B.L. Fisher (deposited in CAS; CASENT9012110)

MADAGASCAR: Female paratype, same data as holotype, (CASENT9012342); 1M, Fianarantsoa, 9.0 km NE Ivohibe, 22°25.6'S, 46°56.3'E, 900 m, 12–17 Nov 1997, forest, leaf litter, B.L. Fisher (CASENT9012109)

The specific name is a patronym to honor Dr. Mark Harvey for his work on the Australian archaeids.

Males are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species except E. fisheri, E. goodmani sp. n. and E. wunderlichi sp. n. by having the pedipalpal tegulum of the “workmani group” form, with the apical conductor encircling a pit-like cavity (Fig. 11D–K). Males are distinguished from E. fisheri by having a comparably straighter embolus, with only a broad curve (Fig. 11E, H, J–K), rather than s-shaped, from E. goodmani sp. n. by lacking the elongated conductor that is broad and blunt at the tip (Fig. 10F), rather than tapering off to a fine point (Fig. 11F, I), and from E. wunderlichi sp. n. by lacking an elongation in the apical portion of the tegulum where the conductor swirls around making the bulb almost twice as long as it is wide (Fig. 12F). Females are distinguished from the “bourgini group” except for E. goodmani sp. n. and E. wunderlichi sp. n. by having two large groups of poreplates on a sclerotized plate that covers the ventral side of the bursa (Fig. 11C), whereas in other “bourgini group” species the poreplates are in smaller clusters on the anterior side of the bursa. Females are distinguished from E. goodmani sp. n. by having a thinner posterior bar (Fig. 11B), and from E. wunderlichi sp. n. by lacking the large bulge in the center of the posterior bar (Fig. 12B). Females are indistinguishable from E. fisheri.

Male holotype (CASENT9012110, from Massif Andringitra, Madagascar). Total length 2.05, carapace 0.87 long, 0.75 wide. Abdomen 1.08 long, 1.15 high. Carapace tilt angle 76.1°, tilt height (CtH) 1.29, constriction 0.55, head length 0.73, neck length 0.61. CtH divided by carapace length 1.48. Cephalon with AME virtually flush with surrounding cuticle, and with 2 short modified spines at the apex (Fig. 11A). Chelicerae 1.30 long, and with a long spine 0.15 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular to the cheliceral cuticle (Fig. 11L, arrow). Femur I 1.36 long. Sternum 0.56 long, 0.37 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs reddish brown with white setae, but reduced numbers compared to other Eriauchenius. All patella lighter in color, being more yellowish white. Abdomen mottled brown and beige, with tufts of white setae, although reduced in number compared to other Eriauchenius (Fig. 11A). Pedipalpal (Fig. 11D–K) tegulum of the “workmani group” form (Fig. 11D–E), with apical conductor encircling a pit-like cavity. Conductor tip tapering off into a sharp point (Fig. 11I). MA broad, thick and triangular (Fig. 11H, K), and sclerite SC heavily sclerotized and thicker than the transluscent thin structure seen in the “workmani group”. Embolus dark, broadly curved, and wire-like (Fig. 11G–K).

Female paratype (CASENT9012342). Total length 2.31, carapace 0.97 long, 0.86 wide. Abdomen 1.23 long, 1.24 high. Carapace tilt angle 76.3°, tilt height (CtH) 1.45, constriction 0.65, head length 0.82, neck length 0.70. CtH divided by carapace length 1.49. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 1.44 long, and with long spine 0.17 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular. Femur I 1.50 long. Sternum 0.63 long, 0.42 wide. Colours as in male. Genitalia with a noncomplex sclerotized plate, with posterior bar, and with “wings” reduced, with poreplates in two large groups, divided down the middle of the bursa and on a sclerotized plate that covers the ventral side of the bursa (Fig. 11B–C).

Total length 2.05–2.12 (males; n=2); Carapace length 0.87–0.92 (males; n=2); Femur I 1.57–1.64 times the length of carapace in males (n=2). CtH divided by carapace length 1.47–1.48 in males (n=2). Average femur I length 1.43 (males; n=2).

Specimens were collected in rainforest in the leaf litter from 825–900 m in elevation.

Known only from around Andringitra Massif in southeast Madagascar (Fig. 32).

Male holotype: MADAGASCAR, Fianarantsoa, Parc National Befotaka-Midongy, Papango, 28.5 km S Midongy-Sud, Mount Papango, 23°50'27"S, 46°57'27"E, 1250 m, 17–19 Nov 2006, montane rainforest, sifted litter, B.L. Fisher et al. (deposited in CAS; CASENT9062702).

Female paratype, MADAGASCAR: Toliara, Réserve Spéciale Kalambatritra, Ampanihy, 23°27'49"S, 46°27'47"E, 1270 m, 9–10 Feb 2009, montane rainforest, sifted litter, B.L. Fisher et al. (CASENT9062648).

The specific name is a patronym to honor Jörg Wunderlich, for his work documenting fossil archaeids.

Males are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species except E. harveyi sp. n., E. fisheri, and E. goodmani sp. n., by having the pedipalpal tegulum of the “workmani group” form, with the apical conductor encircling a pit-like cavity (Fig. 12D–F). Males are distinguished from E. harveyi sp. n., E. fisheri, and E. goodmani sp. n., by having an elongated apical portion of the tegulum, so that the bulb is almost twice as long as it is wide (Fig. 12F). Females are distinguished from the “bourgini group,” except from E. harveyi sp. n., E. fisheri, and E. goodmani sp. n., by having a bursa with two large groups of poreplates on a sclerotized plate that covers the ventral side of the bursa (Fig. 12B–C), whereas in other “bourgini group” species the poreplates are in smaller clusters on the anterior side of the bursa. Females are further distinguished from the “bourgini group” by having a large bulge on the center of the posterior bar (Fig. 12B, arrow).

Male holotype (CASENT9062702, from Parc National Befotaka-Midongy, Madagascar). The abdomen of this specimen is missing making some measurements impossible. Carapace 1.11 long, 0.89 wide. Carapace tilt angle 76.7°, tilt height (CtH) 1.80, constriction 0.76, head length 1.02, neck length 0.87. CtH divided by carapace length 1.62. Cephalon with AME virtually flush with surrounding cuticle, and with 2 short modified spines at the apex. Chelicerae 1.78 long, and with long spine 0.19 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular to the cheliceral cuticle (Fig. 12A). Femur I 1.98 long. Sternum 0.71 long, 0.42 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs reddish brown with white setae. Legs with darker annulations on tibiae and metatarsi. Abdomen color unknown. Pedipalpal tegulum of the “workmani group” form, with apical conductor encircling a pit-like cavity, however the apical portion of the tegulum is elongated so that the bulb is almost twice as long and wide (Fig. 12D–F). Conductor tip tapering off into a sharp point (Fig. 12F). MA rounded and small, and nearly hidden behind sclerite SC and embolus. Sclerite SC long and heavily sclerotized and in close proximity and running parallel to the embolus. Embolus dark, thick, and with a swirl at the base and blunt at the tip (Fig. 12E–D).

Female paratype (CASENT9062648). Total length 2.59, carapace 1.25 long, 1.04 wide. Abdomen 1.26 long, 1.36 high. Carapace tilt angle 73.5°, tilt height (CtH) 1.99, constriction 0.78, head length 1.02, neck length 1.02. CtH divided by carapace length 1.59. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 2.18 long, and with long spine 0.24 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular (Fig. 12A). Femur I 2.02 long. Sternum 0.82 long, 0.51 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs orangish brown with brown setae. Abdomen mottled with dark brown areas and lighter yellowish areas, interspersed with brown setae (Fig. 12A). Genitalia with a noncomplex sclerotized plate with “wings” translucent at the tips. Posterior bar with a large bulge in the center (Fig. 12B, arrow). Bursa with poreplates in two large groups, divided down the middle and positioned on a sclerotized plate that covers the ventral side of the bursa (Fig. 12C).

no other known material.

Specimens were collected in montane rainforest from 1250–1270 m in elevation by sifting litter.

Known only from southeast Madagascar (Fig. 31).

The male and female of E. wunderlichi sp. n. occur in rainforest areas in southwestern Madagascar that are not contiguous. The male and female may not be conspecifics, however based on morphology they likely belong in the “enclosed embolus group.” Future molecular work as well as additional collection of specimens from more localities can help resolve these issues.

As Archaea bourgini Millot, 1948: 6M, 3F, Madagascar, La Mandraka (examined, deposited in MNHN; MNHN 13/1970).

Material described and other material examined: 3M,5F,4Juvs, MADAGASCAR: Antananarivo, Réserve Spéciale d’Ambohitantely, Forêt d’Ambohitantely, 20.9 km 72° NE Ankazobe, 18°13'31"S, 47°17'13"E, 1410 m, 17–22 Apr 2001, montane rainforest, EB17 beating low vegetation, Fisher, Griswold et al. (CASENT9001207)

Males and females are distinguished from other Eriauchenius by having pointed extensions on coxae I (Fig. 13L, arrows). Males and females of E. bourgini and E. zirafy sp. n. are also distinguished by having two large protrusions on the crown of the cephalon (Fig. 13A). Females of E. bourgini and E. zirafy sp. n. are indistinguishable but are different from all other Eriauchenius by having two sclerotized invaginations on the bursa (Figs 13B, 22B, arrows). In E. bourgini males the conductor has four elaborate processes (Fig. 13D–K), and in and E. zirafy sp. n. males, five elaborate processes (Fig. 22D–K).

Male (based on CASENT9001207, from Réserve Spéciale d’Ambohitantely, Madagascar). Total length 1.94, carapace 0.79 long, 0.74 wide. Abdomen 1.09 long, 0.97 high. Carapace tilt angle 72.1°, tilt height (CtH) 1.80, constriction 0.33, head length 0.89, neck length 0.93. CtH divided by carapace length 2.28. Cephalon with AME on a large bulge and 4 post-ocular spines on the crown of the cephalon, with the posterior pair on large protrusions and the anterior pair not on protrusions, and with 1 small spine between the LE and median eyes (on each side, for a total of 2). Chelicerae 1.68 long, and with a short spine 0.70 from base of chelicerae, projecting downward. Femur I 2.13 long. Sternum 0.51 long, 0.36 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, and sternum dark reddish brown with white setae. Coxae and legs lighter brown, with darker annulations on tibiae and metatarsi. Coxae I with posterior extensions (Fig. 13L). Abdomen mottled brown and beige, with a bright white patch on each lateral side, with tufts of white setae (as in Fig. 22A from E. zirafy sp. n.). Pedipalpal bulb with a small membraneous sac on the retrolateral side, with the base of the conductor small and triangular (labeled “c” in Fig. 13D, F–G), and with the remainder of the conductor wrapping around the embolus and with four long processes (Fig. 13D–F). The embolus is thick and contains several processes.

Female (based on CASENT9001207, from Réserve Spéciale d’Ambohitantely, Madagascar). Total length 1.89, carapace 0.74 long, 0.72 wide. Abdomen 1.09 long, 1.98 high. Carapace tilt angle 63.0°, tilt height (CtH) 1.85, constriction 0.36, head length 0.92, neck length 0.97. CtH divided by carapace length 2.50. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 1.73 long, and with small spine 0.84 from base of chelicerae. Femur I 2.03 long. Sternum 0.49 long, 0.33 wide. Colors as in male, except abdomen lacking the bright white lateral patches (Fig. 13A). Female genitalia with a small and simple FSGP, and posterior bar highly reduced (Fig. 13B). Bursa lacking poreplates and instead having a sclerotized invagination on each lateral side of the anterior side of the bursa (Fig. 13C, arrows).

Figure 13. 

Eriauchenius bourgini (Millot, 1948). A female (CASENT9001207) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (CASENT9001207) internal genitalia B dorsal view C anterior view, arrows showing two sclerotized invaginations on the bursa D–K male pedipalpal bulbs (CASENT9001207), D–F, K right bulb, image reversed G–J left bulb D, G, J prolateral view E, H ventral view F, I retrolateral view K apical view L coxae I male (CASENT9001207), ventral view, arrows showing the pointed extensions on coxae I. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.125 mm (B); 0.25 mm (D).

Total length 1.76–1.94 (males; n=5), 1.89–2.15 (females; n=5); Carapace length 0.73–0.79 (males; n=5), 0.74–0.81 (females; n=5); Femur I 2.54–2.71 times the length of carapace in males (n=5) and 2.45–2.75 times the length of carapace in females (n=5). CtH divided by carapace length 2.20–2.39 in males (n=5), 2.37–2.54 in females (n=5). Average femur I length 2.09 (males; n=5), 2.05 (females; n=5).

Specimens were collected at 1410 m in elevation in montane rainforest by beating vegetation.

Known only from central-eastern Madagascar (Fig. 31).

Male holotype: Madagascar, Fianarantsoa, Parc National Andrigitra, 34 km S Ambalavao, 22°09'24.9"S, 46°57'08.7"E, 1830 m, 8–9 Jan 2009, primary montane rainforest, general collecting day, beating vegetation, H. Wood (deposited in USNM: USNMENT01377191).

Female paratype, same as holotype except general collecting day (USNMENT01377192); 1F, 1 eggcase, same as holotype except general collecting day, 1.5 feet above ground in a log leaning against tree (USNMENT01377193); 2F, same as holotype except hand collected in litter ~6 feet off ground in the leaf bases of Pandanus (USNMENT01377194, USNMENT01377185); 1F, Fianarantsoa, Parc National Andrigitra, 34 km S Ambalavao, 22°08'48.9"S, 46°57'03.4"E, 1580 m, 7 Jan 2009, primary montane rainforest, hand collected under dead log, H.Wood (USNMENT01377186).

The specific name is a patronym to honor Dr. Luke Macaulay for his help collecting palpimanoid spiders.

Male is distinguished from other “bourgini group” species except E. milloti sp. n. and E. pauliani (and presumably E. milajaneae sp. n.) by the presence of a lateral process on the conductor (Fig. 14G–I, asterisk), which is narrow in E. lukemacaulayi and E. milloti (Fig. 14H). Males are distinguished from E. milloti sp. n. by lacking the quarter-moon-like-shape of the palpal bulb in E. milloti (Fig. 17D–L). Eriauchenius lukemacaulayi sp. n., E. milajaneae sp. n., and E. milloti sp. n. (and presumably E. pauliani) females are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species by the enlargement of the posterior bar. While this bar is present in other “bourgini group” species, in E. lukemacaulayi sp. n., E. milajaneae sp. n., and E. milloti sp. n. this bar is large and curved into a u-shape. In E. lukemacaulayi sp. n., either end of this bar extends anterior just past the bottom of the “wings” (Fig. 14B), whereas in E. milajaneae sp. n. and E. milloti sp. n. the curved bar goes at least to the middle of the “wings” (Figs 16B, 17B). Eriauchenius lukemacaulayi sp. n. females are also distinguished by the rounded posterior elongation of the FSGP that curves to the dorsal (Fig. 14F, arrow).

Male holotype (USNMENT01377191, from Parc National Andrigitra, Madagascar). Total length 2.38, carapace 1.05 long, 0.97 wide. Abdomen 1.30 long, 1.47 high. Carapace tilt angle 63.59°, tilt height (CtH) 2.29, constriction 0.55, head length 1.03, neck length 1.04. CtH divided by carapace length 2.18. Cephalon with AME on a large bulge and 4 post-ocular spines on the crown of the cephalon, not on protrusions, and with 1 small spine between the LE and median eyes (on each side, for a total of 2). Chelicerae 1.99 long, and with a spine 0.27 from base of chelicerae and projecting perpendicular to the cheliceral cuticle. Femur I 2.56 long. Sternum 0.66 long, 0.44 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum, and legs reddish brown with white setae. All legs with parts that are lighter brown and parts with darker annulations. Abdomen dark brown mottled with yellowish white spots and interspersed with white setae. Pedipalpal bulb with a membranous sac above the base of the embolus on the retrolateral side, with a greatly exposed embolus that is encircled by the conductor as conductor tapers off (Fig. 14D–I). Conductor with a constriction, followed by a narrow, curved process (Fig. 14G–I, asterisk) and a bulge (Fig. 14H, arrow). Embolus broad and dark (Fig. 14G–I).

Female paratype (USNMENT01377192). Total length 2.42, carapace 1.00 long, 0.93 wide. Abdomen 1.34 long, 1.56 high. Carapace tilt angle 65.6°, tilt height (CtH) 2.18, constriction 0.53, head length 0.97, neck length 1.04. CtH divided by carapace length 2.18. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 2.04 long, and with short spine 0.37 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward (Fig. 14A). Femur I 2.40 long. Sternum 0.63 long, 0.44 wide. Colours as in male, expect anterior of abdomen dark brown with yellowish spots and posterior of abdomen mostly yellowish white with some white patches (Fig. 14A). Female genitalia FSGP with a posterior elongation that curves dorsally (Fig. 14F, arrow), and with lateral bulges at the base of each “wing” (Fig. 14B), with a large U-shaped posterior bar that extends just past the posterior portion of the “wings” (Fig. 14B), with poreplates in one group on each lateral side of the bursa anterior (Fig. 14C).

Figure 14. 

Eriauchenius lukemacaulayi sp. n. A female (USNMENT01377191) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C, F female internal genitalia (USNMENT01377192) B posterior view C anterior view F dorsal view, arrow showing the rounded posterior elongation on the FSGP that curves dorsally. D–E, G–I male pedipalpal bulbs (holotype, USNMENT01377191), right bulb, image reversed D, G prolateral view E, I retrolateral view H ventral view, arrow showing the large bulge that occurs after the constriction in the conductor. Asterisk (*) showing the narrow, lateral process on the conductor. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B); 0.5 mm (D).

Total length 2.17–3.09 (females; n=5); Carapace length 1.01–1.06 (females; n=5); Femur I 2.37–2.55 times the length of carapace in females (n=5). CtH divided by carapace length 2.09–2.25 in females (n=5). Average femur I length 2.48 (females; n= 5).

Specimens were collected in leaf litter, in and under logs and through beating vegetation in primary rainforest from 1580–1830 m in elevation.

Known only from Parc National Andrigitra in southeast Madagascar (Fig. 32).

Female holotype: as Afrachaea mahariraensis Lotz, 2003, from MADAGASCAR, Ranomafana N.P., Maharira, trail, 10 Apr 1992, sifting, Emile for Kariko/Roth (examined, deposited in MCZ).

MADAGASCAR: male paratype, Fianarantsoa, Parc National Ranomafana, Vohiparara, 3.6 km W Ranomafana, 21°14.243’S, 47°23.842’E, 1150 m, 13–14 Jan 2009, primary montane rainforest, sifting dead ferns on ground, C. Griswold, A. Saucedo and H. Wood (USNMENT01377173)

Males and females are distinguished from other Eriauchenius, except E. ratsirarsoni and E. sama sp. n., by the presence of 4 small spines on the apex of the cephalon, and having the cheliceral spine pointing perpendicular (as in Fig. 11L). In the holotype female the cheliceral spine is broken off, but the socket shape suggests the spine would be at a perpendicular orientation as it is in the paratype male. Eriauchenius mahariraensis is also distinguished from other Eriauchenius males, by having membranous tissue close to the conductor tip (Fig. 15E–L), and other Eriauchenius females by having a very reduced FSGP with the width divided by height greater than 2 (Fig. 15B).

Female holotype (MCZ, from Parc National Ranomafana, Madagascar). Total length 1.91, carapace 0.74 long, 0.69 wide. Abdomen 1.06 long, 1.24 high. Carapace tilt angle 64.4°, tilt height (CtH) 1.32, constriction 0.44, head length 0.68, neck length 0.64. CtH divided by carapace length 1.77. Cephalon with AME on a small bulge. Cephalon with 4 small post-ocular spines (one is missing or broken off) on the crown of the cephalon, not on protrusions, and 1 spine between the LE and AME (on each lateral side, for a total of 2, but broken off on the right side). Chelicerae 1.33 long, and with a spine 0.24 from base of chelicerae, however, the spines are broken off and only the socket remains; the socket shape suggests the spines would projecting perpendicular to the cheliceral cuticle. Femur I 1.46 long. Sternum 0.51 long, 0.35 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum, and legs reddish brown with white setae; patellas lighter brown. Abdomen anterior dark brown with light circular patches and posterior light tan; abdomen with white and brown setae (Fig. 15A). Female genitalia with a small and simple FSGP, with “wings” highly reduced; posterior bar is present, but the dissection was such that it remains attached to the abdomen and is not visible in Fig. 15B–C; with poreplates in one small group on each lateral side of the bursa anterior, and a small sclerotized piece on the ventral side of the poreplates (Fig. 15C, arrow).

Male paratype (USNMENT01377173). Total length 1.64, carapace 0.78 long, 0.68 wide. Abdomen 0.83 long, 0.97 high. Carapace tilt angle 66.7°, tilt height (CtH) 1.31, constriction 0.44, head length 0.72, neck length 0.61. CtH divided by carapace length 1.69. Cephalon with AME on a small bulge, and with 4 small post-ocular spines (one is missing or broken off) on the crown of the cephalon, and 1 spine between the LE and AME (on each side, for a total of 2). Chelicerae 1.23 long, and with small spine 0.17 from base of chelicerae (Fig. 15A). Femur I 1.63 long. Sternum 0.49 long, 0.32 wide. Cephalothorax colors as in female. Abdomen mostly light tan, but mottled with dark brown areas that have light circular patches; with white and brown setae; posterior of abdomen with bright white areas. Pedipalpal bulb with a small membraneous sac above the embolus base, with a greatly exposed broad and dark embolus that is encircled by the conductor (Fig. 15D–L). Conductor with a membranous area at the distal end that swirls around the embolus (Fig. 15D–L).

Figure 15. 

Eriauchenius mahariraensis (Lotz, 2003). A male (USNMENT01377173) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (holotype, MCZ) internal genitalia B dorsal view C anterior view, arrow showing the small sclerotized piece next to the poreplates D–K male pedipalpal bulbs (USNMENT01377173) D–F right bulb, image reversed G–L left bulb: D, G, J prolateral view E, H, K ventral view F, I, L retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.125 mm (B, D)..

no other known material.

Male specimen was collected at 1150 m in elevation. Both specimens were collected in montane rainforest by general sifting, or sifting dead ferns on the ground.

Known only from Parc National Ranomafana in central-eastern Madagascar (Fig. 32).

E. mahariraensis and E. sama sp. n. both occur at Parc National Ranomafana. Males and females were associated based on body size and carapace shape.

Female holotype: MADAGASCAR, Toliara, Parc National Andohahela, Col du Sedro, 3.8 km 113° ESE Mahamavo, 37.6 km 341° NNW Tolagnaro, 24°45'50"S, 46°45'6"E, 900 m, 21–25 Jan 2002, montane rainforest, EB17 beating low vegetation, B.L. Fisher et al. (CASENT 9009881).

MADAGASCAR: 1F,1Juv, same locality and data as holotype, general collecting at night (CASENT9009481).

The specific name is a patronym for Mila Jane Macaulay in the hope that one day she will go to Andohahela to find this spider.

Females of E. milajaneae sp. n., E. milloti sp. n., and E. lukemacaulayi sp. n. (and presumably E. pauliani, although the females are unknown) are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species by the enlargement of the U-shaped posterior bar of the internal genitalia. While the PB is present in other “bourgini group” species, in E. milajaneae sp. n., E. milloti sp. n., and E. lukemacaulayi sp. n., this bar is very large and curved into a u-shape (Figs 14B, 16B, 17B). In E. milajaneae sp. n. and E. milloti sp. n., each curved end of the PB extends at least to the middle of the “wings”. Eriauchenius milajaneae sp. n. is also distinguished by the rectangular shape of the posterior of the FSGP (Fig. 16B, arrow), and by the long neck that does not have a strong constriction, so that the “head” and “neck” are not clearly separated (Fig. 16A).

Female holotype (CASENT 9009881, Parc National Andohahela, Madagascar). Total length 2.33, carapace 0.94 long, 0.81 wide. Abdomen 1.35 long, 1.48 high. Carapace tilt angle 68.73°, tilt height 2.32, constriction 0.43, head length 0.97, neck length 1.23. CtH divided by carapace length 2.47. Cephalon with AME on a large bulge, with 4 small post-ocular spines at the crown of the cephalon, not on protrusions. Chelicerae 2.03 long, and with short spine 0.28 from base of chelicerae that projects downward (Fig. 16A). Femur I 2.84 long. Sternum 0.60 long, 0.38 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, and sternum reddish brown with white setae. All legs light brown, with darker annulations. Abdomen beige, mottled with brown and with tufts of white setae (Fig. 16A). Female genitalia FSGP with a broad, rectangular posterior elongation (Fig. 16B, arrow), PB large and U-shaped and extends about halfway past the “wings” (Fig. 16B). Poreplates in one group on each lateral side of the bursa anterior (Fig. 16C).

Figure 16. 

Eriauchenius milajaneae sp. n. A female (holotype, CASENT9009881) habitus, lateral view B–C female (holotype, CASENT9009881) internal genitalia: B dorsal view, arrow showing broad, rectangular, posterior elongation on the FSGPC anterior view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B).

Male: unknown.

Total length 2.33–2.38 (females; n=2); Carapace length 0.94–0.95 (females; n=2); Femur I 2.99–3.02 times the length of carapace in females (n=2). CtH divided by carapace length 2.44–2.47 in females (n=2). Average femur I length 2.84 (females; n=2).

The two known adult specimens were caught in montane rainforest through beating vegetation and general collection at night from 900 m in elevation.

Known only from the type locality in Parc National Andohahela in southeast Madagascar (Fig. 31).

Male holotype: MADAGASCAR, Toliara, Parc National Andohahela, Parcelle I, Manangotry, off Rte. 118, 34 km N Taolagnaro, 24°44'35.0"S, 46°51'23.3"E, 670 m, 23 Dec 2008 – 3 Jan 2009, primary montane rainforest, general collecting day and night, turning over dead palm frond bases on the ground, F. Alvarez-Padilla & H. Wood (deposited in USNM: USNMENT01377187).

Female paratype, 1 eggcase, same data as holotype (USNMENT01377188); 3M,11F,1 eggcase, same as previous (USNMENT01377189, USNMENT01377180, USNMENT01377181, USNMENT01377182, USNMENT01377183, USNMENT01377179, USNMENT01377171, USNMENT01377172); 2M3F, same as previous except turning over dead palm frond bases on the ground, F. Alvarez-Padilla & H. Wood (USNMENT01377176, USNMENT01377177); 1Juv, same as previous except general collecting day and night, beating vegetation (USNMENT01377178); 1M, Toliara, Foret Classee Tsikongambarika I, Ivolo forest, Andily, ca. Fort Dauphin, 24°56'13.5"S, 46°55'58.4"E, 20 m, 13 Mar 2003, rainforest, Ludd tree trunks/litter, D. Andriamalala, D. Silva et al. (CASENT9015862); 1Juv, Toliara, Foret Classee Tsitongambarika, Cascade trail hike, 7.5 km NW Taolagnaro, 24°59'11.9"S, 46°55'34.7"E, 100 m, 24 Dec 2008, primary montane rainforest, general collecting day and night, F. Alvarez-Padilla & H. Wood (USNMENT01377184); 1Juv, Toliara, Parc National Andohahela, Parcelle I, Manangotry, off Rte. 118, 32 km N Taolagnaro, 24°45'50.1"S, 46°51'23.5"E, 100 m, 25 Dec 2008, rainforest near stream surrounded by disturbed slash/burn forest, sifting and mini-winkler extraction of leaf litter, F. Alvarez-Padilla & H. Wood (USNMENT01377175).

The specific name is a patronym to honor Dr. Jacques Millot for his work describing Madagascan archaeids.

Males distinguished from other “bourgini group” species except E. pauliani and E. lukemacaulayi sp. n. (and presumably E. milajaneae sp. n., although the males are unknown) by the presence of a lateral process on the conductor, which is narrow in E. lukemacaulayi sp. n. and E. milloti (Figs 14E, G–I, 17D–I, asterisk), but is broader in E. pauliani (Fig. 18C–D, F–H, asterisk). E. milloti sp. n. is distinguished from E. lukemacaulayi sp. n. by the quarter-moon-shape of the pedipalpal bulbs (Fig. 17D–F, J–L). Females of E. lukemacaulayi sp. n., E. milajaneae sp. n., and E. milloti sp. n. (and presumably E. pauliani) are distinguished from other “bourgini group” females by the enlarged, extended U-shaped PB (Figs 14B, 16B, 17B). The PB is smaller and thiner in other “bourgini group” females. In E. milloti sp. n. the curved ends of the PB extend all the way to the anterior edge of the FSGP (Fig. 17B), whereas in E. milajaneae sp. n. and E. lukemacaulayi sp. n. the curved ends do not go past the anterior of the “wings” (Figs 14B, 16B).

Male holotype (USNMENT01377187, from Parc National Andohahela, Madagascar). Total length 2.18, carapace 0.91 long, 0.85 wide. Abdomen 1.23 long, 1.31 high. Carapace tilt angle 69.58°, tilt height (CtH) 1.89, constriction 0.47, head length 0.81, neck length 0.92. CtH divided by carapace length 2.08. Cephalon with AME on large bulge. Cephalon with 4 short post-ocular spines at the crown, not on protrusions. Chelicerae 1.81 long, and with short spine 0.30 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward (Fig. 17A). Femur I 2.53 long. Sternum 0.59 long, 0.38 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, and sternum reddish brown with white setae, although chelicerae lighter brown in middle. All legs with parts that are lighter brown and parts with darker annulations. Abdomen yellowish white, with scattered small and large dark brown areas with yellowish spots, and with tufts of white setae (Fig. 17A). Pedipalpal bulb with a membranous sac above the base of the embolus, with a greatly exposed broad and dark embolus that is encircled by the conductor (Fig. 17D–L). Conductor with a small narrow process (Fig. 17D–I, asterisk) followed by a constriction (Fig. 17H, arrow) that is then followed by a large bulge on the retrolateral side.

Female paratype (USNMENT01377188). Total length 2.33, carapace 0.97 long, 0.88 wide. Abdomen 1.33 long, 1.51 high. Carapace tilt angle 62.94°, tilt height (CtH) 1.99, constriction 0.48, head length 0.87, neck length 0.95. CtH divided by carapace length 2.05. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 1.89 long, and with short spine 0.33 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward. Femur I 2.48 long. Sternum 0.64 long, 0.41 wide. Colors as in male, although abdomen with a greater degree of dark brown. Female genitalia FSGP with a rounded posterior elongation (Fig. 17B); PB large and U-shaped, extending to the anterior edge of the FSGP (Fig. 17B); poreplates in one group on each lateral side of the bursa anterior (Fig. 17C).

Figure 17. 

Eriauchenius milloti sp. n. A male (USNMENT01377189) habitus, lateral view B–C female (USNMENT01377189) internal genitalia B dorsal view C anterior view D–I male pedipalpal bulbs D–F right bulb, image reversed, (USNMENT01377189) G–I left bulb (USNMENT01377189) J–K left bulb (CASENT9015862) D, G, J prolateral view E, H, K ventral view F, I, L retrolateral view. Asterisk (*) showing the narrow, small process on the conductor. Arrow showing constriction in the conductor. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

Total length 1.78–1.89 (males; n=5), 1.94–1.99 (females; n=5); Carapace length 0.88–0.91 (males; n=5), 0.94–0.99 (females; n=5); Femur I 2.73–2.82 times the length of carapace in males (n=5), 2.55–2.64 in females (n=5); CtH divided by carapace length 1.98–2.08 in males (n=5), 1.99–2.08 in females (n=5). Average femur I length 2.49 in both males (n=5) and females (n= 5).

In primary rainforest from 20–640 m in elevation. Collected day and night, turning over dead palm frond bases on the ground, in litter, and on tree trunks.

Known only from Parc National Andohahela and surroundings in the southeastern part of Madagascar (Fig. 32).

Male holotype: as Archaea pauliani Legendre, 1970: Madagascar, Andohahelo (Fort Dauphin), 1800 m., Jan /1954, R. Paulian (examined, deposited in MNHN; MNHN 13/1970).

No other material examined.

Male is distinguished from other “bourgini group” species by the distinctly shaped cephalon, that is triangular with a post-ocular pointed “head” (Fig. 18A), and also by the complete fusion of the sternum and carapace. Male is distinguished from other “bourgini group” species except E. milloti sp. n. and E. lukemacaulayi sp. n. (and presumably E. milajaneae sp. n., although the male is unknown) by the presence of a lateral process on the conductor (Figs 14G–I, 17D–I, 18F–G, asterisk), which in only E. pauliani is as wide as long.

Male holotype (MNHN 13/1970, from Andohahelo, Fort Dauphin, Madagascar). Total length 2.39, carapace 0.97 long, 0.82 wide. Abdomen 1.30 long, 1.40 high. Carapace tilt angle 62.38°, tilt height (CtH) 2.57, constriction 0.54, head length 1.22, neck length 1.29 (Fig. 2). CtH divided by carapace length 2.65. Cephalon with AME on large bulge, and with postocular pointed head (Fig. 18A–B). Cephalon with 4 small post-ocular spines at the crown, not on protrusions. Chelicerae 2.07 long, and with a short spine 0.31 from base of chelicerae that projects perpendicular to the cheliceral cuticle. Femur I 2.99 long. Sternum 0.41 long, 0.65 wide, but completely fused to the carapace; measurements were taken based on approximations of where the original sternum edge would have been. Carapace and sternum reddish brown with white setae, chelicera light reddish brown. Legs beige with reddish brown annulations on tibia and metatarsus. Abdomen beige, mottled with brown and with tufts of white setae (Fig. 18A). Pedipalpal bulb with a membranous sac above the base of the embolus, with a greatly exposed embolus that is encircled by the conductor. Conductor with basal part an uneven ridge shape (see the basal “c” in Fig. 18F–G), with distal part that is narrow as it encircles the embolus, with a large, broad, bulge before tapering off. Conductor with lateral process that is as wide as long (Fig. 18F–G, asterisk). Embolus broad but tapering at tip to a long, fine wire (Fig. 18I); the embolus tip is broken off of the left pedipalp (Fig. 18G, arrow), but is entire in the right pedipalp (Fig. 18I).

Female: The female paratype at MNHN was not available for examination.

Figure 18. 

Eriauchenius pauliani (Legendre, 1970), holotype, MNHN. A–B male A habitus, lateral view, image reversed B anterior view C–H male left pedipalpal bulb C, F prolateral view D, G ventral view, arrow showing the broken tip of the embolus in the left pedipalp E, H retrolateral view I male right pedipalpal bulb, embolus tip close-up showing the unbroken embolus, image reversed. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (C).

No other known material.

Specimens collected at 1800 m elevation.

Known only from the type locality, Andohahelo, in southeast Madagascar (Fig. 32). The distribution point in Fig. 32 is an approximation since the holotype label does not have latitude/longitude data.

In E. pauliani the sternum is fused to the carapace, so the sternum measurements were based on an approximation of where the sternum border would be if this fusion was absent. In the type specimen the embolus tip is broken off in the left pedipalp (Fig. 18G – arrow), however the right pedipalp shows that the embolus tip is curved and much longer (Fig. 18I).

Male holotype: as Archaea ratsirarsoni (Lotz, 2003), from MADAGASCAR, Toamasina, Forêt Clasée Sandranantitra, 18°2.9'S, 49°5.5'E, 450 m, 18–21 Jan 1999, rainforest, sifted litter, H.J. Ratsirarson (examined, deposited in CAS; CASENT9012339).

MADAGASCAR, Toamasina: female paratype and 1juv, Ambatovy, 12.4 km NE Moramanga, 18°50'22"S, 48°18'30"E, 1080 m, 4–7 Mar 2007, montane rainforest, sifted litter, B.L. Fisher et al. (CASENT9028378); 1F,1juv, Parc National Mantadia, 18°47.5'S, 48°25.6'E, 895 m, 28 Nov – 1 Dec 1998, rainforest, sifted litter, H.J. Ratsirarson (CASENT9012338); 1M, Station Forestier Analamazaotra, administered by Mitsinjo, 0.75 km N Andasibe, 18°55.783’S, 48°24.696’E, 964m, 2 Feb 2009, primary montane rainforest, sifting litter around logs, dead fern fronds, and at base of traveler’s palm, H. Wood (USNMENT01377174); 1M,1F, Corridor Forestier Analamay-Mantadia, Ambohibolakely, 18°45'41"S, 48°21'52"E, 983m, 23-28 Nov 2012, rainforest, sifting litter, B.L. Fisher et al. (CASENT9062876).

Males and females are distinguished from other Eriauchenius, except E. mahariraensis and E. sama sp. n., by the presence of 4 small spines on the cephalon crown, and the cheliceral spine pointing perpendicular. Males of E. ratsirarsoni are distinguished from E. sama sp. n. and E. mahariraensis by lacking membranous tissue close to the conductor tip (Fig. 15D–L) and having a long conductor and conductor process that extends past the embolus tip (Fig. 19F, I). Females are distinguished by the presence of two lateral bulges on the FSGP and translucent “wings” (Fig. 19B, arrows).

Male holotype (CASENT9012339, from Forêt Clasée Sandranantitra, Madagascar). Total length 1.67, carapace 0.80 long, 0.74 wide. Abdomen 0.81 long, 0.87 high. Carapace tilt angle 67.5°, tilt height (CtH) 1.35, constriction 0.46, head length 0.75, neck length 0.64. CtH divided by carapace length 1.69. Cephalon with AME on a very small bulge, and with 4 small post-ocular spines (anterior two are broken off, rudimentary or missing) on the crown of the cephalon, and 1 spine between the LE and median eyes (on each lateral side, for a total of 2; broken off on the right side). Chelicerae 1.34 long, and with a long spine 0.20 from base of chelicerae that projects perpendicular. Femur I 1.58 long. Sternum 0.55 long, 0.37 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum, and legs reddish brown with white setae; patellas I–IV, legs II–III, tarsi and metatarsi I–IV pale yellow. Abdomen mostly dark brown with light circular patches, but with several light-yellow patches; abdomen with white and brown setae. Pedipalpal bulb with a membraneous sac above the base of the embolus, with a greatly exposed embolus that is encircled by the conductor (Fig. 19D–L). Conductor swirls around the broad, dark embolus and has a large, long process on the prolateral side (Fig. 19D–I, c1); conductor and process extend past the tip of the embolus (Fig. 19F, I).

Female paratype (CASENT9028378). Total length 1.89, carapace 0.86 long, 0.76 wide. Abdomen 0.87 long, 1.07 high. Carapace tilt angle 69.8°, tilt height (CtH) 1.44, constriction 0.54, head length 0.73, neck length 0.67. CtH divided by carapace length 1.68. Cephalon with AME on a small bulge, and with 4 small spines (anterior pair is rudimentary) on the crown of the cephalon, and missing spine between the LE and median eyes. Chelicerae 1.41 long, and with small spine 0.19 from base of chelicerae projecting perpendicular. Femur I 1.44 long. Sternum 0.56 long, 0.39 wide. Carapace and sternum orangeish brown; legs and chelicerae pale yellow. Abdomen mostly light yellow but with several dark brown areas with light circular patches; abdomen with white and brown setae. Female genitalia FSGP with two large lateral bulges (Fig. 19B, arrows), and nearly translucent “wings”, with PB present (Fig. 19B); one group of poreplates on each side of the bursa anterior; poreplates heavily sclerotized and raised, forming a bulge on the bursa (Fig. 19C).

Figure 19. 

Eriauchenius ratsirarsoni Lotz, 2003. A male (USNMENT01377174) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (CASENT9028378) internal genitalia B posterior-dorsal view, arrows showing the lateral bulges on the FSGPC anterior view D–L male pedipalpal bulbs D–F right bulb (USNMENT01377174), image reversed G–J left bulb (USNMENT01377174) K–L left bulb (CASENT9062876) D, G, J prolateral view E, H, K ventral view F, I, L retrolateral view J arrow showing conductor variation, with a tapering tip K, L arrow showing conductor with a blunt tip. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

Total length 1.67–1.70 (males; n=3), 1.70–2.47 (females; n=3); Carapace length 0.75–0.80 (males; n=3), 0.82–0.87 (females; n=3); Femur I 1.82–1.98 times the length of carapace in males (n=3), 1.63–1.75 in females (n=3); CtH divided by carapace length 1.65–1.69 in males (n=3), 1.68–1.70 in females (n=3). Average femur I length 1.47 in males (n=3) and 1.43 in females (n= 3). In all males the anterior pair of spines on the cephalon are either rudimentary or broken off; in females, one with anterior pair rudimentary, one with all 4 spines present, one with one anterior spine present and the other absent.

In montane and primary rainforest from 450–1080 m in elevation, collected by sifting litter.

Known only from central-eastern Madagascar (Fig. 31).

One male specimen (CASENT9062876) has a pedipalpal bulb that is more heavily sclerotized than the other specimens, and also has a blunt conductor tip (Fig. 19K–L, arrows) rather than the tapering tips in the other two specimens (Fig. 19J, arrow). All three male specimens occur in close proximity so this is likely not a case of geographic variation. This specimen may be a new species and future molecular work as well as additional collection of specimens from more localities can resolve this issue.

Male holotype: Madagascar, Fianarantsoa, Parc National Ranomafana, Vohiparara, Piste Touristique, 21°13.6'S, 47°24.0'E, 1000 m, 19 Apr 1998, C. Griswold, D. Kavanaugh, N. Penny, M. Raherilalao, E. Rajeriarison, J. Ranorianarisoa, J. Schweikert, D. Ubick (deposited in CAS; CASENT9012013).

Female paratype, same data as holotype, except 12 and 14 Apr 1998 (CASENT9012346).

The specific name is a patronym to honor Dr. Michael Rix for his work describing Australian archaeids and examining their biogeographic patterns and evolutionary relationships.

Males are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species by having a sharp process at the base of the pedipalpal tegulum (Fig. 20G–I, arrows). Females are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species by having the posterior bar curved towards the dorsal rather than the anterior (Fig. 20C), by having large broad “wings” and a narrow posterior elongation that is blunt at the end (Fig. 20C, arrow).

Male holotype (CASENT9012013, from Parc National Ranomafana, Madagascar). Total length 2.01, carapace 0.88 long, 0.79 wide. Abdomen 1.05 long, 1.23 high. Carapace tilt angle 64.8°, tilt height (CtH) 1.51, constriction 0.43, head length 0.80, neck length 0.71. CtH divided by carapace length 1.72. Cephalon with AME on large bulges, and with 4 short post-ocular spines on the crown, not on protrusions, and 1 short spine between the LE and median eyes (on each side, for a total of 2). Chelicerae 1.44 long, and with a short spine 0.34 from base of chelicerae. Femur I 1.99 long. Sternum 0.56 long, 0.34 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, and sternum dark reddish brown with white setae. Coxae and legs yellowish brown, with darker annulations on tibiae and metatarsi. Abdomen mottled brown and beige, with tufts of white setae (Fig. 20A). Pedipalpal tegulum with a sharp process (Fig. 20G–I, arrow), bulb with a membraneous sac on the retrolateral side, with conductor encircling the broad, thick embolus (Fig. 20D–L). SC present and long and thin (Fig. 20D–L). MA present and a dark horn-like process (Fig. 20G, I, J, L).

Female paratype (CASENT9012346). Total length 2.46, carapace 0.95 long, 0.86 wide. Abdomen 1.43 long, 1.82 wide. Carapace tilt angle 63.4°, tilt height (CtH) 1.82, constriction 0.50, head length 0.91, neck length 0.84. CtH divided by carapace length 1.92. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 1.62 long, and with short spine 0.37 from base of chelicerae. Femur I 2.06 long. Sternum 0.61 long, 0.37 wide. Colors as in male. Female genitalia FSGP with broad wings, a narrow, blunt posterior elongation (Fig. 20B, arrow); genitalia with a PB, and with poreplates in one group one each side of the bursa anterior (Fig. 20C).

Figure 20. 

Eriauchenius rixi sp. n. A male (holotype, CASENT9012013) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (CASENT9012346) internal genitalia B dorsal view, arrow showing the FSGP narrow posterior elongation C anterior view D–L male pedipalpal bulbs (holotype, CASENT9012013) D–F right bulb, image reversed G–L left bulb, arrow showing the sharp process on the tegulum base D, G, J prolateral view E, H, K ventral view F, I, L retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

no other specimens known.

Specimens were collected at 1000 m in elevation, likely in rainforest, although not specified on the label.

Known only from Parc National Ranomafana in eastern Madagascar (Fig. 32).

Male holotype: MADAGASCAR, Fianarantsoa, Parc National Ranomafana, Talatakely, 21°14.9'S, 47°25.6'E, 19–30 Apr 1998, C. Griswold, D. Kavanaugh, N. Penny, M. Raherilalao, J. Ranorianarisoa, J. Schweikert, D. Ubick (deposited in CAS: CASENT9012014).

Female paratype, MADAGASCAR, Fianarantsoa, 29 km SSW Ambositra, Ankazomivady, 20°46.6'S, 47°09.9'E, 1700 m, 7 Jan 1998, forest, sifted leaf litter, B.L. Fisher (CASENT9012341).

Males and females are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species, except E. ratsirarsoni and E. mahariraensis, by having 4 spines on the cephalon, and the cheliceral spine pointing perpendicular. Males of E. sama sp. n. are also distinguished from other “bourgini group” species, by having a long process on the conductor that extends to the embolus tip (Fig. 21D–I, sclerite “c1”), and having the tip of the conductor point curving in a different direction than the more basal portion (Fig. 21G–I, arrow). Females are distinguished by the reduced FSGP, but the width divided by height is less than 2 (Fig. 21B).

The specific name is a noun in apposition; ‘sama’ means ‘pelican’ in Malagasy.

Male holotype (CASENT9012014, from Parc National Ranomafana, Madagascar). Total length 2.10, carapace 0.95 long, 0.85 wide. Abdomen 1.10 long, 1.26 high. Carapace tilt angle 72.5°, tilt height (CtH) 1.72, constriction 0.52, head length 0.82, neck length 0.81. CtH divided by carapace length 1.81. Cephalon with AME on a small bulge, and with 4 small post-ocular spines (although it is difficult to tell as the anterior pair is missing, rudimentary or broken off) on the crown of the cephalon, and 1 spine between the LE and AME (on each side, for a total of 2). Chelicerae 1.59 long, and with a spine 0.25 from base of chelicerae that projects perpendicular. Femur I 2.03 long. Sternum 0.63 long, 0.40 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum, and legs reddish brown with white setae; patellas, tibias, and metatarsi light tan. Abdomen mottled with dark brown and light yellow patches, with light circular patches on the dark brown portions, with white setae. Pedipalpal bulb with a large membraneous sac above the base of the embolus, with a greatly exposed embolus that is encircled by the conductor (Fig. 21D–L). Conductor with a large bulge and a long process on the prolateral side that extends to the tip of the embolus (Fig. 21D–I, “c1” sclerite). In ventral view the left conductor curves in a clockwise direction, but the tip changes direction (Fig. 21H–I, arrow). Embolus broad and dark (Fig. 21G).

Female paratype (CASENT9012341). Total length 2.24, carapace 0.87 long, 0.80 wide. Abdomen 1.18 long, 1.48 high. Carapace tilt angle 67.5°, tilt height (CtH) 1.50, constriction 0.50, head length 0.78, neck length 0.73. CtH divided by carapace length 1.73. Cephalon with AME on a small bulge, and with 4 small post-ocular spines (one is broken off or missing) on the crown of the cephalon, and 1 spine between the LE and AME (on each side, for a total of 2). Chelicerae 1.54 long, and with small spine 0.29 from base of chelicerae. Femur I 1.82 long. Sternum 0.60 long, 0.40 wide. Cephalothorax colors as in male. Abdomen anterior light tan, and posterior dark brown with light circular patches; abdomen with white and brown setae. Female genitalia FSGP small and simple, with “wings” reduced (Fig. 21B); PB present; with poreplates in one group on each side of the bursa anterior (Fig. 21C).

Figure 21. 

Eriauchenius sama sp. n. A male (holotype, CASENT9012014) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (CASENT9012341) internal genitalia: B dorsal view C anterior view D–L male pedipalpal bulbs (holotype, CASENT9012014), arrow showing the change in direction in the curve of the conductor tip D–F right bulb, image reversed G–L left bulb D, G, J prolateral view E, H, K ventral view F, I, L retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

no other known material.

Female specimen was collected at 1700 m in elevation in forest by sifting litter.

Known only from central-eastern Madagascar (Fig. 31).

Nomenclatural remarks: The male holotype and female paratype of E. sama sp. n. occur in different areas. The male and female were associated based on body size and carapace shape. Future molecular work as well as additional collection of specimens from more localities can help resolve this issue.

Male holotype: MADAGASCAR, Toamasina, Parc National Masoala, 2 hour hike from Tompolo, 39 km SE Maroantsetra, 15°41'35.5"S, 49°58'22.5"E, 450 m, 15–17 Dec 2008, primary montane rainforest, general collecting day, beating vegetation, F. Alvarez-Padilla & H. Wood (deposited in USNM: USNMENT01377199).

MADGASCAR: Female paratype, Toamasina, Mikira forest, 2.5 hour hike from Andaparaty, 29 km N Maroantsetra, 15°12'2.95"S, 49°36'55.0"E, 195m, 10–12 Dec 2008, primary montane rainforest, beating vegetation: 5–10 feet above ground, F. Alvarez-Padilla & H. Wood (USNMENT01377190); 1M, same data as holotype (CASENT9028315); 1M,1J, Toamasina, Parc National Masoala, Ambohitsitondroina, Mt., Ambanizana, 15°34'9.9"S, 50°00'12.3"E, 650–700 m, 26–27 Feb 2003, rainforest, general collecting night, D. Andriamalala, D. Silva, et al. DSD0007 (CASENT9015571).

The specific name is a noun in apposition; ‘zirafy’ means ‘giraffe’ in Malagasy.

E. bourgini and E. zirafy sp. n. are distinguished from other “bourgini group” species by having two large protrusions on the crown of the cephalon (Fig. 22A). Females of E. bourgini and E. zirafy sp. n. are distinguished by the presence of two sclerotized invaginations on the bursa (Fig. 22C, arrows). Males of E. bourgini and E. zirafy sp. n. are distinguished by having a conductor with 4 processes in E. bourgini (Fig. 13D–K) and 5 in E. zirafy sp. n (Fig. 22D–K). Eriauchenius zirafy sp. n. is distinguished from E. bourgini by lacking posterior extensions on coxae I (Fig. 13L), and by having a cluster of small bumps and pores on the conductor base of the male pedipalp (Fig. 22G–I,L, arrow).

Male holotype (USNMENT01377199, from Parc National Masoala, Madagascar). Total length 1.79, carapace 0.75 long, 0.70 wide. Abdomen 0.97 long, 0.81 high. Carapace tilt angle 59.5°, tilt height (CtH) 1.72, constriction 0.32, head length 0.86, neck length 0.89 (Fig. 2). CtH divided by carapace length 2.29. Cephalon with AME on large bulge. Cephalon with 4 small post-ocular spines on the crown of the cephalon, with the posterior pair on large protrusions and the anterior pair not on protrusions, and 1 small spine between the LE and AME (on each side, for a total of 2). Chelicerae 1.50 long, and with a short spine 0.68 from base of chelicerae, projecting downward. Femur I 1.89 long. Sternum 0.50 long, 0.32 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, and sternum dark reddish brown with white setae. Coxae and legs lighter brown, with darker annulations on tibiae and metatarsi. Abdomen mottled brown and beige, with a bright white patch on each lateral side, with tufts of white setae (Fig. 22A). Pedipalpal bulb with a small membranous sac above the embolus base, with the base of the conductor small and triangular with a cluster of small bumps and pores (Fig. 22G–I,L, arrow), and with the remainder of the conductor with 4 long processes as it wraps around the embolus, although one process is bifurcating (Fig. 22D,G–I, c3 and c4) for a total of five processes (Fig. 22D–I, c1–c5). The embolus is thick, contains two processes, and has membranous parts.

Female paratype (USNMENT01377190). This specimen is damaged due to fungus, rendering measurements and color descriptions of the abdomen impossible. Carapace 0.75 long, 0.70 wide. Carapace tilt angle 65.4°, tilt height (CtH) 1.72, constriction 0.31, head length 0.81, neck length 0.92. CtH divided by carapace length 2.29. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 1.66 long, and with small spine 0.73 from base of chelicerae. Femur I 1.90 long. Sternum 0.51 long, 0.33 wide. Carapace colors as in male. Female genitalia FSGP small and simple; unknown whether PB is present or absent due to specimen damage; bursa lacking poreplates and instead having a sclerotized invagination on each side of the bursa anterior (Fig. 22C, arrows).

Figure 22. 

Eriauchenius zirafy sp. n. A male (CASENT9015571) habitus, lateral view B–C female (USNMENT01377190) internal genitalia B dorsal view C anterior view, arrows showing two sclerotized invaginations on the bursa D–L male pedipalpal bulbs (CASENT9015571), black arrow showing the small bumps on the conductor base D–F, L right bulb, image reversed G–K left bulb: D, G, J prolateral view E, H ventral view F, I, K retrolateral view L close-up of small bumps on conductor base, retrolateral view, white arrow showing small pores. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.125 mm (B); 0.25 mm (E).

Total length 1.79–1.80 (males; n=3); Carapace length 0.72–0.75 (males; n=3); Femur I 2.54–2.72 times the length of carapace in males (n=3) and 2.54 times the length of the carapace in females (n=1). CtH divided by carapace length 2.29–2.44 in males (n=3). Average femur I length 1.96 (males; n=3).

Specimens were collected from 195–700 m in elevation in rainforest by beating vegetation and general collecting.

Known only from areas around Parc National Masoala in northeastern Madagascar (Fig. 31).

Archaea gracilicollis Millot, 1948

The name refers to the Madagascan distribution and is feminine in gender.

Distinguished from all other archaeids by the presence of six protrusions, each with a small spine, on the crown of the cephalon, and by the presence of a retrolateral apophysis on the male pedipalpal patella.

See Wood (2008) for a complete description.

14 described species M. ambre (Wood, 2008), M. anabohazo (Wood, 2008), M. borimontsina (Wood, 2008), M. gracilicollis (Millot, 1948), M. griswoldi (Wood, 2008), M. halambohitra (Wood, 2008), M. jeanneli (Millot, 1948), M. lavatenda (Wood, 2008), M. legendrei (Platnick, 1991), M. namoroka (Wood, 2008), M. spiceri (Wood, 2008), M. tsingyensis (Lotz, 2003), M. vadoni (Millot, 1948), M. voronakely (Wood, 2008), and 4 new species described here: Madagascarchaea fohy sp. n., Madagascarchaea lotzi sp. n., Madagascarchaea moramora sp. n., Madagascarchaea rabesahala sp. n

Madagascar

We elevate the “gracilicollis group” (Wood 2008) to genus level based on phylogenetic analysis that strongly supports two monophyletic clades, Eriauchenius and Madagascarchaea gen. n., that have diversified on Madagascar (Fig. 1) (Wood et al. 2015; Wood et al. 2012). These two genera are not sister clades, but instead Afrarchaea is sister to Eriauchenius in Wood et al (2015), and Afrarchaea is sister to Madagascarchaea gen. n. in Wood et al (2012). Eriauchenius and Afrarchaea are never recovered as sister clades.

Madagascarchaea gen. n. contains two main clades, the “vadoni group” and the “jeanneli group” (Fig. 1). The “vadoni group” contains M. borimontsina, M. legendrei, M. vadoni, M. fohy sp. n., and M. rabesahala sp. n., and these species share the following traits: a retrolateral apophysis on the male pedipalpal femur (compare fig. 12A with fig. 12B in Wood 2008) and a highly reduced FSGP that lacks “wings” (Figs 23B, 24B, 25B). The female genitalia of “vadoni group” species do not have interspecific variation. Instead, somatic traits are more useful for identifying “vadoni group” species. We split what was previously considered M. legendrei into two species: M. legendrei and M. rabesahala sp. n. For clarity, we describe both M. legendrei and M. rabesahala sp. n. here. In addition, there is a single female specimen (CASENT9046596), denoted as “Madagascarchaea sp. 1” in Fig. 1 that may be a new species, however, since this is the only known specimen and females are difficult to diagnose, we chose not to describe it (collection information: Madagascar, Fianarantsoa, Réserve Forestiére d’Agnalazaha, Mahabo, 42.9 km 215° SW Farafangana, 23°11'38"S, 47°43'23"E, 20 m, 19 Apr 2006, littoral rainforest, maxi winkler litter extraction, B.L. Fisher et al.).

M. jeanneli, M. ambre, M. lotzi sp. n., and M. moramora sp. n. belong to the “jeanneli group” and are part of a species complex distinguished from other Madagascarchaea by having an elongated and pointy head (Figs 26A, 27A, 28A), a triangular abdomen that is either straight across the posterior (Fig. 28A) or invaginated (Figs 26A, 27A), and a conductor that is a large triangular piece in the prolateral view (Figs 26D, 27D). The current study splits the M. jeanneli of Wood (2008) into several different species: M. jeanneli, M. lotzi sp. n., and M. moramora sp. n. For clarity, we also redescribe M. jeanneli here. M. ambre, is considered a part of the “jeanneli-complex” but is not redescribed here, see Wood (2008) for a complete description. These four species form a monophyletic group (Fig. 1), although M. jeanneli is not included in the phylogeny. Females cannot be distinguished. For the males, embolus shape is the main morphological difference among species.

When using the identification key from Wood (2008), if a specimen is identified as either M. jeanneli or M. ambre, then use the following key to separate M. jeanneli, M. ambre, M. lotzi sp. n., and M. moramora sp. n.; females of these four species are indistinguishable:

When using the identification key from Wood (2008), if a specimen is identified as M. legendrei, then use the following key to separate species of M. legendrei, M. fohy sp. n., and M. rabesahala sp. n.:

Male holotype: MADAGASCAR, Toamasina, Ivoloina Parque Zoologique, 12 km from Tamatave, 18°03'21.6"S, 49°21'32.5"E, 26m, 19 Feb 2003, disturbed rainforest, general collecting night, D. Andriamalala, D. Silva, et al. (deposited in CAS; CASENT9015766).

MADGASCAR: Female paratype, same data as holotype (CASENT9015766); 1F,1juv, Toamasina, Parc National Masoala, Ambohitsitondroina Mt., Ambanizana, 15°34'19.5"S, 50°00'25"E, 900–950 m, 27 Feb 2003, rainforest, general collecting, D. Andriamalala, D. Silva, et al. (CASENT9015493).

The specific name is a noun in apposition; ‘fohy’ means ‘shorty’ in Malagasy.

Distinguished from all other archaeids, except M. vadoni, M. legendrei, M. rabesahala sp. n., and M. borimontsina (likely, because the male is unknown) by having a retrolateral apophysis on the distal side of both the palpal femur and patella (fig. 12B from Wood 2008), and because the FSGP is highly reduced and lacks “wings” (Figs 23B, 24B, 25B). M. fohy sp. n. is distinguished from M. vadoni, M. legendrei, and M. rabesahala sp. n. by having a heavily sclerotized rod-shaped sclerite on the palpal bulb (Fig. 23H, J, arrow), and by the presence of a retrolateral protrusion on the cymbium that has setae (Fig. 23C, arrow). M. fohy sp. n. is further distinguished from M. vadoni by having 6 spines that are not on protrusions on the cephalic crown, opposed to the small protrusions seen in M. vadoni (Wood, 2008: fig. 18A, C); from M. borimontsina by having less than 6 true teeth on the cheliceral retromargin (Wood 2008), by lacking a point on the AME bulge (Wood 2008: fig. 18D), and by lacking a cheliceral swelling on the posterior-basal side of the chelicerae (Wood 2008: fig. 18D).

Male holotype (CASENT9015766, from Ivoloina Parque Zoologique, Madagascar). Total length 1.61, carapace 0.68 long, 0.55 wide. Abdomen 0.85 long, 0.93 high. Carapace tilt angle 58.1°, tilt height (CtH) 1.29, constriction 0.33, head length 0.56, neck length 0.70. CtH divided by carapace length 1.91. Cephalon with AME on large bulge, and with 6 small post-ocular spines on the crown, not on protrusions, and 1 small spine between the LE and median eyes (on each side, for a total of 2). Chelicerae 1.40 long, and with a small spine 0.27 from base of chelicerae that projects downward (Fig. 23A). Femur I 1.96 long. Sternum 0.45 long, 0.27 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs reddish brown with white setae. Legs with darker annulations on tibiae and metatarsi. Abdomen mottled with dark brown areas and lighter yellowish areas, interspersed with white setae (Fig. 23A). Pedipalpal bulb of the “vadoni group” form (Fig. 23C–L): pedipalpal bulbs elongated with conductor swirling around a mostly membraneous embolus; conductor base triangular (Fig. 23D, G, see basal “c”), with remainder of conductor elongate and cradling embolus, and with a curved tip; MA translucent and fans out (Fig. 23F, I). Cymbium with retrolateral protrusion that has setae (Fig. 23C, arrow). Embolus with heavily sclerotized rod-like piece (Fig. 23H, J, arrow).

Figure 23. 

Madagascarchaea fohy sp. n. A male (holotype, CASENT9015766) habitus, lateral view B female (CASENT9015766) internal genitalia, dorsal view C–L male pedipalpal bulbs (holotype, CASENT9015766) D–F right bulb, image reversed C, G–L left bulb C cymbium close-up, dorsal view, arrow showing the retrolateral cymbium protrusion that has setae D, G, J prolateral view, arrow showing rod-like piece on embolus E, H, K ventral view, arrow showing rod-like piece on embolus F, I, L retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

Female paratype (CASENT9015766). Total length 1.97, carapace 0.75 long, 0.63 wide. Abdomen 1.10 long, 1.38 high. Carapace tilt angle 54.2°, tilt height (CtH) 1.55, constriction 0.41, head length 0.73, neck length 0.82. CtH divided by carapace length 2.07. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 1.55 long, and with a short spine 0.28 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward (Fig. 23A). Femur I 2.04 long. Sternum 0.50 long, 0.29 wide. Colors as in male. Genitalia of the “vadoni-group” form (Fig. 23B): with one group of poreplates on each side of the bursa anterior, and FSGP highly reduced, lacking “wings.”

Total length 1.67–1.97 (females; n=2); Carapace length 0.71–0.75 (females; n=2); Left and right femur I missing in one female (CASENT9015493). Femur I 2.73 times the length of carapace in females (n=1); CtH divided by carapace length 1.92–2.07 in females (n=2).

Specimens were collected in disturbed and undisturbed rainforest from 26–950 m in elevation by general collecting.

Known only from northeastern and central-eastern Madagascar (Fig. 33).

Male holotype: as Archaea legendrei Platnick, 1991: Madagascar, Fianarantsoa, 7 km W Ranomafana, 1100 m, 1–7 Nov 1988, montane rainforest, pyrethrin fogging of dead leaves on fallen tree, W.E. Steiner (deposited in USNM, examined; USNMENT00879968)

MADAGASCAR: Female paratype, same data as holotype (USNMENT00879968); Fianarantsoa, Parc National Ranomafana: 2M,8F, 4 eggcases, Vohiparara, Sahamalaotra forest, 41.1 km 54° NE Fianarantsoa, 21°14'19.9"S, 47°23'39.2"E, 1200 m, 26 Dec 2005 – 14 Jan 2006, montane rainforest, general collecting day, beating vegetation: in clumps of dead dry foliage, H. Wood, J. Miller, J.J. Rafonomezantsoa, E. Rajeriarison, V. Andriamananony (USNMENT01377217, USNMENT01377218, USNMENT01377219, USNMENT01377210, USNMENT01377211); 2M,10F,16Juvs, 5 eggcases, Talatekely forest, 42.3 km 58° NE Fianarantsoa, 21°15'28.0"S, 47°25'21.8"E, 1050 m, 24 Dec 2005 – 14 Jan 2006, montane rainforest, general collecting day and night, H. Wood, J. Miller, J.J. Rafonomezantsoa, E. Rajeriarison, V. Andriamananony (USNMENT01377212, USNMENT01377213, USNMENT01377214, USNMENT01377205); 2M,4F,3Juvs,1 eggcase, Vohiparara, 3.6 km W Ranomafana, 21°14.243’S, 47°23.842’E, 1150 m, 13–14 Jan 2009, primary montane rainforest, general collecting day and night, C. Griswold, A. Saucedo and H. Wood (USNMENT01377206, USNMENT01377207, USNMENT01377208, USNMENT01377209); 1F, Talatakely, 21°14.9’S, 47°25.6’E, 5–18 Apr 1998, C. Griswold, D. Kavanaugh, N. Penny, M. Raherilalao, J. Ranorianarisoa, J. Schweikert, D. Ubick (CASENT9012347); 1M, same data as previous except 19–30 Apr 1998 (CASENT9010075); 2M,4F,3Juv, Vatoharanana, 21°16.7’S, 47°26.1’E, 1200 m, 15 Apr 1998, primary forest, C. Griswold, D. Kavanaugh, N. Penny, M. Raherilalao, J. Ranorianarisoa, J. Schweikert, D. Ubick (CASENT9012349, CASENT9010076); 1F,1juv, 2.3 km N Vohiparara village, 21°12.8’S, 47°23.0’E, 1100 m, 18 Apr 1998, C. Griswold, D. Kavanaugh, N. Penny, M. Raherilalao, E. Rajeriarison, J. Ranorianarisoa, J. Schweikert, D. Ubick (CASENT9012345); 1F, same data as previous except 10-11 Apr 1998 (CASENT9012348); 1M,2F, Vohiparara, Piste Touristique, 21°13.6’S, 47°24.0’E, 1000 m, 23 Apr 1998, C. Griswold, D. Kavanaugh, N. Penny, M. Raherilalao, E. Rajeriarison, J. Ranorianarisoa, J. Schweikert, D. Ubick (CASENT9012333); 1M, Talatakely, 21°15’S, 47°26’E, 915–1000 m, 30 Oct - 20 Nov 1998, V.F. Lee, K.J. Ribardo (CASENT9010074); 1M, Vatoharanana River, 4.1 km 231° SW Ranomafana, 21°17'24"S, 47°26'00"E, 1100 m, 27–31 Mar 2003, montane rainforest, EB20 yellow pan trap, Griswold, Fisher et al (CASENT9018908); 1M,2F, Talatakely, 21°15’S, 47°25’E, 900 m, 5–7 Dec 1993, N. Scharff, S. Larcher, C. Griswold, and R. Andriamasimanana (CASENT9046586); 1M,1F,2juvs, Trail FF, 14 May 1992, sifting litter 1 hr sample, B. Roth (CASENT9012334); 1F,1juv, 7 km W Ranomafana, 1100 m, 23–28 Feb 1990, montane rainforest, W.E. Steiner (USNMENT00879971); 1F, 7 km W Ranomafana, 21°12’S, 47°27’E, 1000 m, 1–7 Mar 1990, montane rainforest, W.E. Steiner (USNMENT00879987).

Distinguished from all other archaeids, except M. vadoni, M. rabesahala sp. n., M. fohy sp. n., and M. borimontsina (presumably, because the male is unknown) by having a retrolateral apophysis on the distal side of the male pedipalpal femur and patella (see fig. 12B in Wood 2008), and by the shape of the FSGP that is highly reduced and lacks “wings” (Fig. 24B). M. legendrei is distinguished from M. vadoni by having a rounded cephalon with the cephalic spines not on protrusions (Fig. 24A), rather than the larger protrusions seen in M. vadoni (compare figs 18A and 18C in Wood 2008); from M. borimontsina by having less than 6 teeth on the cheliceral retromargin, by having a rounded bulge that the AME rests upon, and by lacking a bulge on the posterio-basal side of the chelicerae (see fig. 18D in Wood 2008); from M. fohy sp. n. by lacking a heavily sclerotized rod-shaped sclerite on the palpal bulb (Fig. 23H,J, arrow), and by lacking setae on the retrolateral cymbial protrusion (Figs 23C, 24C, arrow); and from M. rabesahala sp. n. by having a more rounded cephalon, and by having a comparatively smaller and less sclerotized triangular basal portion of the conductor (compare basal “c” in Figs 24G, 25G).

Male (based on CASENT9012333, from Parc National Ranomafana, Madagascar). Total length 1.67, carapace 0.74 long, 0.58 wide. Abdomen 0.90 long, 1.13 high. Carapace tilt angle 61.9°, tilt height (CtH) 1.42, constriction 0.28, head length 0.58, neck length 0.84. CtH divided by carapace length 1.92. Cephalon with AME on large bulge, and with 6 short post-ocular spines at the crown, not on protrusions, and 1 short spine between the LE and AME (on each side, for a total of 2; see fig. 18A in Wood 2008). Chelicerae 1.53 long, and with a small spine 0.34 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward (Fig. 24A). Femur I 2.35 long. Sternum 0.49 long, 0.29 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs reddish brown with white setae. Legs with darker annulations on tibiae and metatarsi. Abdomen dark brown with lighter circular patches throughout, with white setae (Fig. 24A). Pedipalpal bulb of the “vadoni group” form (Fig. 24D–I): pedipalpal bulbs elongated with conductor swirling around a mostly membraneous embolus; conductor base triangular (Fig. 24D,G), with remainder of conductor elongate and cradling embolus, and with a curved tip; MA translucent and fans out (Fig. 24E–F, H–I). Cymbium with small retrolateral protrusion that lacks setae (Fig. 24C, arrow).

Female (based on CASENT9012333, from Parc National Ranomafana, Madagascar). Total length 1.92, carapace 0.79 long, 0.63 wide. Abdomen 1.13 long, 1.40 high. Carapace tilt angle 54.4°, tilt height (CtH) 1.63, constriction 0.36, head length 0.71, neck length 0.90. CtH divided by carapace length 2.06. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 1.61 long, and with short spine 0.34 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward (Fig. 24A). Femur I 2.26 long. Sternum 0.53 long, 0.31 wide. Colors as in male. Genitalia of the “vadoni-group” form (Fig. 24B): with one group of poreplates on each side of the bursa anterior, and with FSGP highly reduced, lacking “wings.”

Figure 24. 

Eriauchenius legendrei (Platnick, 1991). A male (USNMENT01377217) habitus, lateral view B female (CASENT9012333) internal genitalia, dorsal view. C–I male pedipalpal bulbs D–F left bulb (CASENT9012333) C left bulb (CASENT9010074) G–I left bulb (USNMENT01377217): C cymbium close-up, dorsal view, arrow showing the small retrolateral cymbium protrusion that lacks setae D, G prolateral view E, H ventral view F, I retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

Total length 1.46–1.67 (males; n=5), 1.81–2.02 (females; n=5); Carapace length 0.66–0.77 (males; n=5), 0.76–0.82 (females; n=5); Femur I 3.01–3.66 times the length of carapace in males (n=5), 2.71–3.05 in females (n=5); CtH divided by carapace length 1.93–2.24 in males (n=5), 2.01–2.21 in females (n=5); Average femur I length 2.32 in males (n=5), 2.29 in females (n= 5).

Specimens were collected in montane rainforest from 915–1200 m in elevation by beating clumps of dead, dry foliage, by sifting litter, in yellow pan traps, and by general collecting day and night.

Known only from Parc National Ranomafana in central eastern Madagascar (Fig. 33).

Male holotype: MADAGASCAR, Antananarivo, 3 km 41° NE Andranomay, 11.5 km 147° SSE Anjozorobe, 18°28'24"S, 47°57'36"E, 1300 m, 5–13 Dec 2000, montane rainforest, beating and sweeping, Fisher, Griswold et al. (deposited in CAS: CASENT9004011).

MADAGASCAR: Female paratype, same data as holotype except beating low vegetation (CASENT9003843); 1M, together with the holotype (CASENT9004011); 3M,3F,1juv, same data as holotype except general collecting (CASENT9004086); 1F,1juv,1 eggcase, Toamasina, Station Forestier Analamazaotra, administered by Mitsinjo, 0.75 km N Andasibe, 18°55.783’S, 48°24.696’E, 964m, 2 Feb 2009, primary montane rainforest, sifting litter around logs, dead fern fronds, and at base of traveler’s palm, H. Wood (USNMENT01377200).

The specific name is a noun in apposition and commemorates Gisèle Rabesahala, a Malagasy activist and politician.

Distinguished from all other archaeids, except M. vadoni, M. legendrei, M. fohy sp. n., and M. borimontsina (presumably, because the male is unknown) by having a retrolateral apophysis on the distal side of the male pedipalpal femur and patella (see fig. 12B in Wood 2008), and because the FSGP is highly reduced and lacks “wings” (Fig. 25B). M. rabesahala is distinguished from M. vadoni by having the cephalic spines not on protrusions (Fig. 24A), rather than the protrusions seen in M. vadoni (see fig. 18C in Wood 2008); from M. borimontsina by having less than 6 teeth on the cheliceral retromargin, by having a rounded bulge that the AME rests upon, and by lacking a bulge on the posterio-basal side of the chelicerae (see fig. 18D in Wood 2008); from M. fohy sp. n. by lacking a heavily sclerotized rod-shaped sclerite on the palpal bulb (Fig. 23H,J, arrow), and by lacking a retrolateral cymbial protrusion (Fig. 25C, arrow); and from M. legendrei by having a cephalon that is not as perfectly rounded (compare cephalon shape in Figs 24A, 25A), and by having a larger and more sclerotized triangular basal portion of the conductor (compare basal “c” in Figs 24G, 25G).

Male holotype (CASENT9004011, from forest close to Andranomay, Madagascar). Total length 1.66, carapace 0.73 long, 0.61 wide. Abdomen 0.90 long, 1.07 high. Carapace tilt angle 62.4°, tilt height (CtH) 1.42, constriction 0.39, head length 0.63, neck length 0.71. CtH divided by carapace length 1.95. Cephalon with AME on large bulge, and with 6 short post-occular spines at the crown, not on protrusions, and lacking spine between the LE and AME. Chelicerae 1.44 long, and with a small spine 0.33 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward (Fig. 25A). Femur I 2.01 long. Sternum 0.46 long, 0.30 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, sternum and legs reddish brown with white setae. Legs with darker annulations on tibiae and metatarsi. Abdomen dark brown with lighter circular patches throughout, with white setae (Fig. 25A). Pedipalpal bulb of the “vadoni group” form (Fig. 25D–I): pedipalpal bulbs elongated with the conductor swirling around a mostly membraneous embolus; conductor base triangular (Fig. 25D), with remainder of conductor elongate and cradling embolus, and with a curved tip; MA translucent and fans out (Fig. 25E–F,H–I). Cymbium lacks retrolateral protrusion (Fig. 25C, arrow).

Female paratype (CASENT903843). Total length 1.91, carapace 0.80 long, 0.67 wide. Abdomen 1.11 long, 1.55 high. Carapace tilt angle 62.3°, tilt height (CtH) 1.55, constriction 0.42, head length 0.78, neck length 0.82. CtH divided by carapace length 1.94. Cephalon as in male, except spine between LE and AME present. Chelicerae 1.61 long, and with a small spine 0.34 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward (Fig. 25A). Femur I 1.97 long. Sternum 0.49 long, 0.32 wide. Colors as in male. Genitalia of the “vadoni-group” form (Fig. 25B): with one group of poreplates on each side of the bursa anterior; with FSGP highly reduced, lacking “wings.”

Figure 25. 

Madagascarchaea rabesahala sp. n. A male (holotype, CASENT9004011) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B female (CASENT9004086) internal genitalia, dorsal view C–I male pedipalpal bulbs D–F right bulb (CASENT9004086), image reversed C, G–I left bulb (CASENT9004086): C cymbium close-up, dorsal view, arrow showing the absence of a retrolateral cymbium protrusion D, G prolateral view E, H ventral view F, I retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.25 mm (B, D).

Total length 1.56–1.66 (males; n=5), 1.91–2.07 (females; n=4); Carapace length 0.72–0.75 (males; n=5), 0.74–0.81 (females; n=4); Femur I 2.69–2.86 times the length of carapace in males (n=5), 2.38–2.69 in females (n=4); CtH divided by carapace length 1.93–2.12 in males (n=5), 1.94–2.15 in females (n=4); Average femur I length 2.03 in males (n=5), 1.96 in females (n= 4). The spine between the LE and AME is present is 3 males out of 5, and 4 females out of 4.

Specimens were collected in montane rainforest from 960–1300 m in elevation by beating low vegetation, by sifting litter, by beating and sweeping, and by general collecting.

Known only from central eastern Madagascar (Fig. 33).

2 females, 1 juv: as Archaea jeanneli Millot, 1948: Madagascar, La Mandraka (deposited in MNHN, examined; MNHN 13/1970)

MADAGASCAR: 2M,1F, Toamasina, Res. Analamazaotra, Parc National Andasibe, 23 road km E Moramanga, 18°56'38.2"S, 48°25'03.2"E, 960 m, 16–18 Jan 2003, rainforest, general collecting night, C. Griswold, D. Silva, and D. Andriamalala (CASENT9005233, CASENT9018315); 7M,4F,1juv, Antananarivo, 3 km 41° NE Andranomay, 11.5 km 147° SSE Anjozorobe, 18°28'24"S, 47°57'36"E, 1300 m, 5–13 Dec 2000, montane rainforest, general collecting, Fisher, Griswold et al. (CASENT9004085); 3M,4F,1juv, same data as previous except beating and sweeping (CASENT9004009); 6F, Toamasina, Parc National Perinet, nr Andasibe, 18°56’S, 48°24’E, 1000 m, 4–5 Nov 1993, J. Coddington, S. Larcher, C. Griswold, R. Andriamasimanana, and N. Scharff (CASENT9012329, CASENT9046592, CASENT9046601); 1M, Toamasina, Parc National Perinet, 18°55’S, 48°25’E, 1-3 Aug 1992, V. & B. Roth (CASENT9012003); 2F, Toamasina, Station Forestier Analamazaotra, administered by Mitsinjo, 0.75 km N Andasibe, 18°55.783’S, 48°24.696’ E, 964m, 31 Jan – 3 Feb 2009, primary montane rainforest, hand collected at night in vegetation, C. Griswold, A. Saucedo and H. Wood (USNMENT01377201, USNMENT01377202); 1F, Antananarivo, Réserve Spéciale d’Ambohitantely, Forêt d’Ambohitantely, 20.9 km 72° NE Ankazobe, 18°13'31"S, 47°17'13"E, 1410 m, 17–22 Apr 2001, montane rainforest, EB17 beating low vegetation, Fisher, Griswold et al. (CASENT9012336); 2M,2F,1juv, Antananarivo, 7 km SE Andasibe Parc National (=Perinet) 18°58’S, 48°27’E, 5 Sep 2001, montane forest, beating foliage, D. Ubick (CASENT9001265).

Distinguished from all Madagascarchaea, except other ‘pointy head’ species M. ambre, M. lotzi, and M. moramora sp. n., by having a conductor that is a concave triangular shape (Fig. 26D–E, J–H, J–K), and by having an abdomen that is invaginated across the back (Fig. 26A), rather than rounded (as in Fig. 23A). Typically M. jeanneli can be distinguished from M. ambre and M. moramora sp. n., by having an abdomen that is invaginated in the posterior (Fig. 26A), rather than straight (Fig. 28A). M. jeanneli is further distinguished from M. moramora by having the anterior portion of the embolus taper off to a point (Fig. 26G–I, “a”) rather than being broad and blunt (Fig. 28D–F, “a”), and from M. ambre by having the anterior piece of the embolus broad and curved (Fig. 26G–I, “a”) and not straight, narrow, and jutting out past the conductor in the retrolateral direction (see fig. 21 in Wood 2008). M. jeanneli is distinguished from M. lotzi sp. n. by having an embolus with a very deep bifurcation (Fig. 26I, L), and with the posterior portion of the embolus having an additional bifurcation at the tip (Fig. 26F, I, “p”).

Male (based on CASENT9012003, from Parc National Perinet, Madagascar). Total length 1.55, carapace 0.64 long, 0.47 wide. Abdomen 0.79 long, 0.91 high. Carapace tilt angle 50.2°, tilt height (CtH) 1.19, constriction 0.35, head length 0.68, neck length 0.59. CtH divided by carapace length 1.85. Cephalon with AME on large bulge, and with 6 short post-occular spines at the crown, not on protrusions, and 1 short spine between and posterior to the LE and median eyes (see fig. 18B in Wood 2008). Chelicerae 1.18 long, and with a small spine 0.30 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward (Fig. 26A). Femur I 1.96 long. Sternum 0.44 long, 0.25 wide. Carapace, chelicerae, and sternum reddish brown with white setae. Legs light brown with darker annulations throughout. Abdomen dark brown with lighter circular patches throughout, with white and brown setae (Fig. 26A). Posterior edge of abdomen invaginated (Fig. 27A, arrow). Conductor concave and triangular; MA dark, thick, and curves anteriorad; S1 a thin ridge; embolus dark, with deep bifurcation, anterior portion curved and tapering off and posterior portion with additional bifurcation at tip with each side tapering off (Fig. 26D–L).

Female (based on CASENT9012336, from Réserve Spéciale d’Ambohitantely, Madagascar). Total length 2.00, carapace 0.78 long, 0.59 wide. Abdomen 1.18 long, 1.49 high. Carapace tilt angle 60.0°, tilt height (CtH) 1.53, constriction 0.41, head length 0.94, neck length 0.73. CtH divided by carapace length 1.97. Cephalon as in male. Chelicerae 1.48 long, and with a short spine 0.36 from base of chelicerae and projecting downward. Femur I 2.31 long. Sternum 0.51 long, 0.28 wide. Colors as in male. Posterior edge of abdomen invaginated. Genitalic bursa divided down the middle by sclerotized piece on the anterior-ventral side, with a few clusters of poreplates on either side; FSGP with two strong points arising from either side of anterior edge, having ‘wings’, and lacking posterior elongation (Fig. 26B–C).

Figure 26. 

Madagascarchaea jeanneli (Millot, 1948). A male (CASENT9004085) habitus, lateral view, image reversed B–C female (CASENT9012336) internal genitalia B dorsal view C anterior view. D–L male pedipalpal bulbs D–I left bulb (CASENT9004085) J–L left bulb (CASENT9005233): D, G, J prolateral view E, H, K ventral view F, I, L retrolateral view. Scale bars: 1 mm (A); 0.125 mm (B, D).

Total length 1.54–1.83 (males; n=5), 1.82–2.00 (females; n=5); Carapace length 0.64–0.76 (males; n=5), 0.74–0.78 (females; n=5); Femur I 2.60–3.06 times the length of carapace in males (n=5), 2.88–3.12 in females (n=5); CtH divided by carapace length 1.72–1.85 in males (n=5), 1.75-2.01 in females (n=5); Average femur I length 2.01 in males (n=5), 2.23 in females (n= 5).

Specimens were collected in montane rainforest from 960–1300 m in elevation by beating low foliage, low vegetation, by beating and sweeping, by general collecting at night, and by hand collecting at night in vegetation.

Known only from central eastern Madagascar (Fig. 34).

Previous work (Wood 2008) lumped into M. jeanneli what we are here calling several different species. The M. jeanneli syntypes include two females, and females of the “jeanneli complex “(M. ambre, M. jeanneli, M. lotzi sp. n., and M. moramora sp. n.) cannot be confidently distinguished. However, the type locality of “La Mandraka” is an area about 40 kilometers east of Antananarivo, and so we propose that the female syntypes are conspecific to the males found in this area. The male and female specimens that were described and illustrated as M. jeanneli in Wood 2008 are here being called M. lotzi n. sp.