Ontogenetic development and reproduction of Zorocrates guerrerensis (Araneae: Zoropsidae)

Abstract

Zorocrates guerrerensis Gertsch & Davis, 1940 is a Mexican cribellate spider with almost no information about its biology. As the species could potentially be of medical interest, it was decided to study basic aspects of its life history under laboratory conditions. The life cycle lasts a year, with spiders undergoing up to 12 instars to reach maturity. The courtship behaviour includes tactile communication. Copulation consists of two palpal insertions, each with a single haematodochal expansion. Both males and females can mate more than once; components of the first and second copulation do not differ. On average, the total copulation duration lasts for more than five minutes. Some details of the copulation process are discussed and compared with those of other lycosoids.

Keywords

• copulation
• courtship
• cribellate spider
• instar
• life history
• Mexico
• polyandry
• polygyny
• tactile communication