Trogloraptor is a genus of large spiders found in the caves of southwestern Oregon. It is the sole genus in the family Trogloraptoridae, and includes only one species, Trogloraptor marchingtoni. [1] These spiders are predominantly yellow-brown in color with a …

Sep 20, 2022 · This juvenile, however, is likely a new species of Trogloraptor, awaiting discovery of the adult stage.Trogloraptor means “cave robber,” in reference to its hook-like tarsi (last segments on their legs), which are likely used to capture flying insects straight out of the air.

Aug 20, 2012 · Photo by California Academy of Sciences. The Trogloraptor, a cave-dwelling spider with peculiar, talon-like claws, hangs upside down from strands of spider silk, legs dangling in the air.

In 2010, some amateur cave explorers discovered a relatively large six-eyed, hook-legged, orangey-brown spider in a Southern Oregon cave. In 2012, the spider was named Trogloraptor marchingtoni or Trogloraptor (which means “cave robber”), and it was unique enough to be declared a new taxonomic family of spider.

Trogloraptor marchingtoni gen. et sp. n., type of the new family Trogloraptoridae, is described from caves in the Pacific Northwest, and a diagnostic table and character discussion are presented to distinguish it from all other spider families.

The unforgettable Trogloraptor represents a rather extraordinary species of arachnid, and perhaps the stuff of nightmares for some. However, despite its moderately impressive size and fearsome appearance, the remarkable creature poses absolutely no danger to humans.

Trogloraptor are so named because, while not easy to see with the naked eye, their tarsi - their "feet" - are uniquely sharp, barbed and hook-shaped. Dangling upside-down from cave roofs by only a few strands of silk, the spiders hold out their front legs in wait for passing prey...but what they eat remains unknown.

And they named the new spider Trogloraptor marchingtoni—troglo meaning caves and raptor, meaning grabber, seizer, or robber. And marchingtoni ? For Neil Marchington, deputy sheriff, amateur biologist and cave conservancy member who found the spider in the first place!

Trogloraptor, awaiting discovery of the adult stage. Trogloraptor means “cave robber” in reference to its hook-like tarsi (last segments on their legs), which are likely used to capture flying insects straight out of the air. General Description This yellow-brown spider has a body length of 7–10 mm and a maximum leg span of 7.6 cm.

Aug 17, 2012 · Trogloraptor (or "cave robber") is named for its cave home and spectacular, elongate claws. It is a spider so evolutionarily special that it represents not only a new genus and species, but also...