LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta Ledford & Griswold, in Ledford et al. 2011LeptonetaSimon 1872 (in part); Chamberlin and Ivie 1942 (in part); Gertsch 1974 (in part).NeoleptonetaBrignoli 1972 (in part); Brignoli 1977 (in part); Platnick 1986 (in part); Cokendolpher and Reddell 2001 (in part); Cokendolpher 2004 (in part); Ledford et al. 2011 (in part).Tayshaneta Ledford and Griswold, in Ledford et al. 2011: 334-388Type species.

Leptoneta coeca Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942.

Nomen dubium.

Leptoneta furtiva (Gertsch, 1974) is described on on the basis of a single female specimen from Blackwell, Nolan County, Texas. The holotype is in poor condition, missing most of its appendages and genitalia. Efforts to recollect the species at the type locality have proven unsuccessful and the lack of diagnostic features prevents its diagnosis from any other Tayshaneta species. Leptoneta uvaldea (Gertsch, 1974) was described from Story Cave, Uvalde County, Texas, based on a single female specimen. While the holotype is in good condition, the genitalia are damaged and it cannot be separated from any other Tayshaneta species. Furthermore, the type locality, Story Cave, is widely recognized as a lost cave somewhere on the Marneldo Ranch (A. Gluesenkamp, pers. comm.). Given their lack of diagnostic features, both species are declared nomena dubia until additional specimens near the type localities can be obtained.

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta is separated from all other leptonetids by having males with a recurved to straight retrolateral spine on the palpal tibia (Figs 32A–F) and females with short spermathecal stalks bearing large circular to oval heads (Figs 52-54).

Putative synapomorphies.

Species of Tayshaneta are united by the unique conformation of the female genitalia, with short spermathecal stalks bearing large heads (Figs 52–54) and the recurved to straight retrolateral spine on the male palpal tibia (Figs 32A–F).

Description.

Total length 1.0-1.98. Carapace depigmented to orange-brown; oval and covered by fine, irregular sculpturing which refracts light producing a distinctive iridescence (Figs 10A, C), sparsely setose, length 0.88-1.8× width. Eyes present, reduced, or absent with the PME displaced posteriad of the AEG (Fig. 10B), elevated to flattened in lateral profile (Fig. 10E); chelicerae free and with lateral stridulatory file (Fig. 10E). Sternum triangular to subquadrate (Fig. 10D); abdomen pale yellow to dark brown, lacking distinctive pattern. Colulus triangular, ALS cylindrical, PMS and PLS comb-like, with a linear row of 6–10 aciniform gland spigots (Figs 11A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.0–2.26× carapace length; formula I, IV, II, III, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines; patellar and tibial glands triangular with single, large pores; metatarsus III with ventroapical preening comb. Male palpal tarsus divided or tapering apically, with a middorsal division (Figs 31A–F); tibia with a single recurved to straight retrolateral spine on an elevated base surrounded by elongate setae and 2–4 paddle-shaped setae (Figs 32A–F); palpal bulb oval, longer than wide, with an apically situated embolus (E, Figs 33–51) and an oval prolateral lobe (PL, Figs 33–51); ventral sclerite present (VS, Figs 33, 37, 39–41, 44–50) or absent (Figs 34–36, 38, 42, 43, 51), consisting of a single spine; retrolateral sclerite present or absent, curved and weakly invaginated to oval (RS, Figs 39–41, 49–50) or distinctly separated from the bulb (RS, Fig. 51); tarsal organ circular, shallow and with a pair of receptors. Female genitalia (Figs 52–54) consisting of a single oval to triangular atrium with a pair of lateral spermathecae bearing large, circular (Figs 52A, C–F; 53A–B, D–F; 54A–C, E) to elongate heads (Figs 53C, 54D) that are covered in fine pores.

Composition.

Nineteen species, ten of which are described in this paper:

Tayshaneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta archambaulti sp. n., Tayshaneta bullis (Cokendolpher, 2004), Tayshaneta coeca (Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942), Tayshaneta concinna (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta emeraldae sp. n., Tayshaneta fawcetti sp. n., Tayshaneta grubbsi sp. n., Tayshaneta madla sp. n., Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta oconnorae sp. n., Tayshaneta paraconcinna (Cokendolpher & Reddell, 2001), Tayshaneta sandersi, sp. n., Tayshaneta sprousei sp. n., Tayshaneta valverdae (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta vidrio sp. n., Tayshaneta whitei sp. n.

Distribution.

Central to West Texas (Figs 3, 56–61).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta anopica http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_anopica (Gertsch, 1974)Figs 1A2D12A–F33A–F52A–B56Leptoneta anopicaGertsch 1974: 172.Neoleptoneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974): Brignoli 1977: 216; Platnick 1986: 6; Platnick 2010.Tayshaneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Female holotype from Cobb Cave (= Cobb’s Caverns), 15 miles north of Georgetown, Williamson County, Texas, 31-March-1963, J. Reddell, D. McKenzie, 30.78N, 97.73W, (AMNH, examined).

Notes.

Cobb Cave is also known as Cobb’s Caverns and is located on the Cobb Ranch in Northern Williamson County (Figs 1A, 55). The general area of Cobb’s Spring has a long history of occupation by Indians who likely discovered the cave thousands of years ago (K. White, pers. comm.). The cave was first reported by the National Speleological Society in 1948 (K. White, pers. comm.) and briefly operated as a commercial cave from 1962 to 1969.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Williamson County: Cobb’s Caverns, 15mi. N. of Georgetown, 30-March-2004, M. Warton, 30.78N, 97.73W, 1♂, (TTU); Cobb’s Caverns, 15mi. N. of Georgetown, 12-October-2004, K. White, 30.78N, 97.73W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Cobb’s Caverns, 15mi. N. of Georgetown, 24-November-2004, P. Paquin, 30.78N, 97.73W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Cobb’s Caverns, 15mi. N. of Georgetown, 7-September-2007, P. Paquin, 30.78N, 97.73W, 1♂, (TMM); Cobb’s Caverns, 15mi. N. of Georgetown, 10-December-2009, P. Paquin, C. Crawford, 30.78N, 97.73W, 3 juvs, (TMM); Corn Cobb’s Cave, 17-July-2008, M. Archambault, J. Ledford, P. Paquin, 30.75N, 97.73W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Corn Cobb’s Cave, 15-October-2008, P. Paquin, Parker, Baird, 30.75N, 97.73W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Corn Cobb’s Cave, 31-October-2008, P. Paquin, Crawford, Parker, 30.75N, 97.73W, 1 ♀, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta anopica may be separated from all Tayshaneta species that have a ventral sclerite and an undivided male palpal tarsus, except Tayshaneta concinna, Tayshaneta oconnorae and Tayshaneta sandersi, by the following combination of characters: pigmentation and eyes entirely absent (Figs 12A–B); femur I elongate, 1.7–2.3× carapace length; male retrolateral tibial spine thin, sculptured throughout, length 0.50× tarsus length (Fig. 33A); embolus curved distally and with prominent basal tooth (E, Fig. 33D). Separated from Tayshaneta concinna, Tayshaneta oconnorae and Tayshaneta sandersi by having a straight ventral sclerite (VS, Figs 33B, E) and by the unique shape of the embolus (E, Fig. 33D).

Description.

Complete description of female in Gertsch (1974: 172). Habitus of female in Figs 12D–F, genitalia as in Fig. 52A and images of egg-sac in Figs 2D, 52B.

Male (Cobb’s Caverns). Body length 1.38, carapace 0.62 long, 0.45 wide, length 1.36× width. Carapace depigmented to light brown, eyes absent, sparsely setose (Figs 12A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 2.0× carapace length, covered in fine setae.Palpal tarsus entire, tapering apically; retrolateral tibial spine straight, on shallow base, sculptured throughout, length 0.50× tarsus length (RTS, Fig. 33A). Bulb suboval, length 1.84× width; embolus circular, with prominent basal tooth (E, Fig. 33D), length 1.17× width. Abdomen pale to yellow-brown, without pattern, 0.76 long, 0.54 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 2). Total length 1.25–1.38; carapace length 1.19–1.36 × carapace width; femur I length 2.0–2.2 × carapace width.

Tayshaneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974), Cobb’s Cave, Williamson County, Texas (CASC), habitus. A Tayshaneta anopica male, dorsal B Tayshaneta anopica male, ventral C Tayshaneta anopica male, lateral D Tayshaneta anopica female, dorsal E Tayshaneta anopica female, ventral F Tayshaneta anopica female, lateral.

Distribution.

Known only from two caves in Williamson County, Texas (Figs 1A, 56). Cobb’s Caverns is the largest known cave in the area, however, several smaller karst features occur on the property including Corn Cobb’s Cave (K. White, pers. comm.). The records of Tayshaneta anopica from Corn Cobb’s Cave suggest that it may be more broadly distributed in the Cobb’s Spring region.

Natural History.

An egg-sac for this species was found with a female specimen from Corn Cobb’s Cave (Figs 2D, 52B). The egg-sac was found hanging by a single thread covered with small pebbles and contained two eggs.

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta archambaulti urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:0A3E7B18-3AB5-44F9-AF73-4623ABDD215C http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_archambaulti sp. n.Figs 13A–F34A–F52C58Type data.

Male holotype from Grapevine Cave, 7 miles west of Wimberly, Hays County, Texas, 18-Nov-2009, J. Ledford, K. O’Connor, 30.04N, 98.22W, (CASC).

Etymology.

This species is named in honor of Martin Archambault, fellow caver and friend who helped collect many leptonetids in Texas and Mexico.

Other material examined.

USA: Hays County: Burnett Ranch Cave, 7mi. W. of Wimberly, 1982, A. Grubbs, 30.02N, 98.21W, 1♂, 2 ♀, 3 juvs (AMNH); Grapevine Cave, 7mi. W. of Wimberly, 26-May-1989, A. Grubbs, 30.04N, 98.22W, 1♂ (AMNH); Grapevine Cave, 7mi. W. of Wimberly, 23-April-1995, A. Grubbs, Vreeland, 30.04N, 98.22W, 1♂, 1 ♀, 5 juvs, (TMM);Grapevine Cave, 7mi. W. of Wimberly, 18-November-2009, J. Ledford, K. O’Connor, 30.04N, 98.22W, 4♂, 5 ♀, 7 juvs, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta archambaulti can be separated from all Tayshaneta species that lack a ventral sclerite, except Tayshaneta coeca and Tayshaneta devia, by the following combination of characters: embolus oval to quadrate, lacking sculpture along its margin (E, Fig. 34D); retrolateral tibial spine short, occupying less than 0.50× the length of the palpal tarsus (RTS, Fig. 34A). Separated from Tayshaneta devia by having a retrolateral tibial spine with sculpture along its entire length and from Tayshaneta coeca by having the embolus curved distally and extending beyond the apical portion of the bulb (E, Fig. 34E).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.35, carapace 0.64 long, 0.56 wide, length 1.13× width. Carapace light brown, eyes reduced, sparsely setose (Figs 13A–F). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.5× carapace length, covered in fine setae with few scattered spines.Palpal tarsus entire, tapering apically; retrolateral tibial spine weakly recurved, on weakly elevated base, sculptured throughout, length 0.32× tarsus length (RTS, Fig. 34A). Bulb suboval, length 1.71× width; embolus oval to quadrate (E, Fig. 34D), length 2.0× width. Abdomen pale to yellow-brown, without pattern, 0.70 long, 0.54 wide, covered in fine setae.

Tayshaneta archambaulti sp. n., Burnett Ranch Cave, Hays County, Texas (AMNH), habitus. A Tayshaneta archambaulti male, dorsal B Tayshaneta archambaulti male, ventral C Tayshaneta archambaulti male, lateral D Tayshaneta archambaulti female, dorsal E Tayshaneta archambaulti female, ventral F Tayshaneta archambaulti female, lateral.

Variation (n = 4). Total length 1.34–1.63; carapace length 0.88–1.36 × carapace width; length femur I 1.35–1.65 × carapace width.

Female (Grapevine Cave). Body length 1.32, carapace 0.63 long, 0.51 wide, length 1.25× width. Pigmentation and setation same as for male (Figs 13D–F). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.34× carapace length, covered in fine setae with few scattered spines.Atrium oval, length 0.51× width, spermathecae with twisted stalks and large, circular heads (Fig. 52C). Abdomen pale to yellow-brown, without pattern, 0.69 long, 0.54 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 4). Total length 1.32–1.72; carapace length 1.20–1.29 × carapace width; length femur I 1.34–1.75 × carapace width.

Distribution.

This species is known only from Burnett Ranch Cave and Grapevine Cave in southwestern Hays County (Fig. 58).

Natural History.

Individuals for this species were collected throughout Grapevine Cave, however, most specimens were encountered at the base of the cave’s vertical entrance in the twilight area under stones. They were collected in fine sheet webs similar to other Tayshaneta species.

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta bullis http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_bullis (Cokendolpher, 2004)Figs 14A–F35A–F52D59Neoleptoneta bullisCokendolpher 2004: 65.Tayshaneta bullis (Cokendolpher, 2004): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Male holotype from Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, Bexar County, Texas, 10-September-1998, J. Cokendolpher, J. Reddell, J. Krejca, M. Reyes, 29.63N, 98.55W, (AMNH, examined).

Notes.

Two female specimens from Hills and Dale’s Pit are tentatively assigned to this species based on the similarity of the female genitalia and by having identical COI and 28s rDNA sequences to specimens collected in Up the Creek Cave.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Bexar County: Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 30-March-1995, J. Cokendolpher, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, J. Krejca 29.63N, 98.55W, 4 ♀, (TMM); Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 5-October-1995, J. Cokendolpher, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, J. Krejca, 29.63N, 98.55W, 1♂, 3 ♀, (TMM); Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 5-October-1995, J. Cokendolpher, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, J. Krejca, 29.63N, 98.55W, 1♂, 1 ♀, (CASC); Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 5-October-1995, J. Cokendolpher, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, J. Krejca, 29.63N, 98.55W, 1♂, 1 ♀, (TTU); Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 14-November-1995, J. Cokendolpher, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, J. Krejca, 29.63N, 98.55W, 1♂, (TTU); Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 10-September-1998, J. Krejca, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.63N, 98.55W, 2♂, 2 ♀, 2 juvs, (TTU); Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 4-November-1998, J. Krejca, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.63N, 98.55W, 2♂, 1 ♀, (TTU); UTSA Area, Hills and Dale’s Pit, 28-October-2000, K. White, H. Bechtol, 29.59N, 98.63W, 1 ♀, (TTU);Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 16-January-2002, J. Krejca, Engelhard, Schuman, 29.63N, 98.55W, 1♂, 1 ♀, (TTU); Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, 6-August-2008, P. Sprouse, 29.63N, 98.55W, 1 ♀, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta bullis can be separated from all other Tayshaneta species that lack a ventral sclerite by having an elongate retrolateral tibial spine at least 0.5× the length of the palpal tarsus (RTS, Fig. 35A) and a distinctly quadrate shaped embolus (E, Fig. 35D).

Description.

Complete description in Cokendolpher (2004: 65). Habitus of male and female in Figs 14A–F, scanning electron micrographs of male palp in Figs 35A–F and female genitalia in Fig. 52D.

Tayshaneta bullis (Cokendolpher, 2004), Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, Bexar County, Texas (male holotype AMNH, female TMM), habitus. A Tayshaneta bullis male, dorsal B Tayshaneta bullis male, ventral C Tayshaneta bullis male, lateral D Tayshaneta bullis female, dorsal E Tayshaneta bullis female, ventral F Tayshaneta bullis female, lateral.

Distribution.

Known from two caves in Bexar County, Up the Creek Cave on Camp Bullis and Hills and Dale’s Pit (Fig. 59).

Natural History.

Cokendolpher (2004) reported on the shape of the egg-sac for this species along with details on their general biology. The egg-sac was covered in small pebbles or detritus similar to that observed for Tayshaneta anopica (Fig. 2D, 53B). Females were observed to retain sperm for several months and the egg-sacs contained few, relatively large eggs.

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta coeca http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_coeca (Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942)Figs 15A–F36A–F52E58Leptoneta coecaChamberlin and Ivie 1942: 10; Gertsch 1974: 170.Neoleptoneta coeca (Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942): Brignoli 1977: 216; Platnick 1986: 7; Cokendolpher, 2004: 64.Tayshaneta coeca (Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Male holotype from Heidrich’s Cave, New Braunfels, 20-June-1938, Comal County, Texas, 20-June-1938, 29.70N, 98.10W, (AMNH, formerly in the University of Utah collection, examined).

Notes.

Heidrich’s Cave was the name used by Chamberlin and Ivie (1942) for Brehmmer Cave in the original description of the species (Reddell and Cokendolpher 2004). Gertsch (1974) considered specimens from Natural Bridge Caverns as conspecific with Tayshaneta coeca, however, no illustrations or diagnostic details were provided. Female specimens from Natural Bridges Caverns show similar somatic morphology and genitalia, but cannot be confidently determined in the absence of associated males. While male specimens are reported in Gertsch (1974) they were not located in collections. Given its proximity to the type locality and morphological similarity the specimens are tentatively maintained as conspecific. In several cases, specimens of Tayshaneta devia were difficult to separate from Tayshaneta coeca except by the fine details of the retrolateral tibial spine and embolus. Given the geographic disjunction between populations in Comal and Williamson Counties, additional sampling is required in these area, especially on the surface, in order to refine species limits.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Comal County: Brehmmer Cave (=Heidrich’s Cave), 5mi. W. of New Braunfels, 19-March-1960, W. Gertsch, W. Ivie, Schrammel, 29.70N, 98.10W, 1♂, 1 ♀, (AMNH); Coreth Bat Cave, 28-October-1995, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 1♂, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Coreth Bat Cave, 28-October-1995, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (TTU); Guadeloupe River, 19-November-2004, P. Paquin, 29.81N, 98.17W, 3 ♀, (CASC); Natural Bridge Caverns, 13mi. W. of New Braunfels, 23-February-1963, O. Knox, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.70N, 98.10W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Natural Bridge Caverns, 13mi. W. of New Braunfels, 13-July-1963, J. Reddell, 29.70N, 98.10W, 2 ♀, 3 juvs, (TMM); Natural Bridge Caverns, 13mi. W. New of Braunfels, 23-September-1989, O. Knox, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.70N, 98.10W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Natural Bridge Caverns, 13mi. W. of New Braunfels, 1-March-1990, O. Knox, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.70N, 98.10W, 1 ♀, (TTU); 7mi. W. of New Braunfels, 27-January-1995, A. Grubbs, 3 ♂, 2 ♀, 1 juv. (TMM); Hays County: Freeman Crawl, 8-August-2009, P. Sprouse, 1 juv., (TMM); Hackberry Cave, 7-May-2009, P. Sprouse, 30.01N, 97.94W, 1 ♂, 3 juvs, (TMM); Hackberry Cave, 13-October-2009, P. Sprouse, 30.01N, 97.94W, 2 ♂, 2 ♀, 2 juvs, (TMM); McCarty Cave, 14-October-2009, P. Sprouse, 29.85N, 97.99W, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); McGlothlin Sink, 26-May-1989, A. Grubbs, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.92N, 97.94W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, 4 juvs, (TMM); Root Beard Cave, 14-March-2005, P. Paquin, 29.97N, 97.98W, 2 ♂, (CASC); Root Beard Cave, 7-June-2009, P. Sprouse, 29.97N, 97.98W, 2 ♂, 1 juv., (TMM); Wiseman’s Sink No. 2, 10mi. W. of San Marcos, 22-April-1995, A. Grubbs, 29.97N, 97.98W, 2 ♀, 4 juvs, (TMM); Wiseman’s Sink, 28-April-1995, A. Grubbs, 29.97N, 97.98W, 1 ♂, (TMM); Wiseman’s Sink, 30-April-1995, A. Grubbs, 29.97N, 97.98W, 4 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta coeca can be separated from other Tayshaneta species that lack a ventral sclerite, except Tayshaneta archambaulti and Tayshaneta devia, by having a short retrolateral tibial spine, occupying less than 0.5× the length of the palpal tarsus (RTS, Fig. 36F) and a rectangular embolus that lacks sculpture along its margin (E, Fig. 36D). Separated from Tayshaneta devia by having a retrolateral tibial spine with sculpture along its entire length (RTS, Fig. 36C, F) and from Tayshaneta archambaulti by the distinctive shape of the embolus (E, Fig. 36D).

Description.

Complete description in Gertsch (1974: 170–171). Habitus of male and female in Figs 15A–F, scanning electron micrographs of male palp in Figs 36A–F and female genitalia in Fig. 52E.

Tayshaneta coeca (Chamberlin and Ivie, 1942), Heidrich’s Cave, Comal County, Texas (male holotype, female paratype AMNH), habitus. A Tayshaneta coeca male, dorsal B Tayshaneta coeca male, ventral C Tayshaneta coeca male, lateral D Tayshaneta coeca female, dorsal E Tayshaneta coeca female, ventral F Tayshaneta coeca female, lateral.

Distribution.

Caves and surface localities in Hays and Comal Counties (Fig. 58).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta concinna http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_concinna (Gertsch, 1974)Figs 16A–C37A–F53F56Leptoneta concinnaGertsch 1974: 169.Neoleptoneta concinna (Gertsch, 1974): Brignoli 1977: 216; Platnick 1986: 7; Cokendolpher and Reddell 2001: 46.Tayshaneta concinna (Gertsch, 1974): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Male holotype from Lost Gold Cave, 13 miles SW of Austin, Travis County, Texas, 27-May-1963, J. Reddell and B. Frank, 30.26N, 97.81W, (AMNH, examined).

Notes.

Gertsch (1974) included a single female specimen from Stark’s North Mine in Travis County as conspecific with Tayshaneta concinna although it is unclear which characters he based this decision upon. Stark’s North Mine is a unique feature in the Austin chalk formation and appears to be largely artificial, probably carved out by local residents. Recent inventories at the site have recovered additional Tayshaneta specimens, including adult males, which share the genitalic morphology of Tayshaneta concinna and are recovered as part of the concinna clade (Clade A, Fig. 4). Given the highly disturbed nature of the habitat, it is likely that Tayshaneta concinna also occurs on the surface. Although adult males are not available from the populations in Seibert Sink (Travis County) or County Line Bat Cave (Williamson County), molecular analyses support them as close relatives of Tayshaneta concinna and they are tentatively assigned to the species pending the discovery of males.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Travis County: Lost Gold Cave, 5mi. W. of Austin, 3-March-1985, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.26N, 97.81W, 1 ♀, (AMNH); Lost Gold Cave, 5mi. W. of Austin, 24-November-2004, P. Paquin, 30.26N, 97.81W, 2 ♂, 2 ♀, (CASC); Seibert Sink (=Stinkin Sink), 1-January-1998, M. Sanders, 30.25N, 97.82W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Seibert Sink (=Stinkin Sink), 5-January-1998, M. Sanders, 30.25N, 97.82W, 2 ♀, (TMM, TTU); Stark’s North Mine, 9mi. NNE of Austin, 20-August-1963, W. Russell, 30.38N, 97.67W, 1 ♀, (AMNH); Stark’s North Mine, 9mi. NNE of Austin, 18-September-2000, J. Jenkins, 30.38N, 97.67W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Stark’s North Mine, 9mi. NNE of Austin, 21-November-2009, J. Ledford, P. Paquin, 30.38N, 97.67W, 1 ♂, 3 ♀, 1J (CASC).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta concinna may be separated from all Tayshaneta species that have a ventral sclerite, except Tayshaneta anopica, Tayshaneta oconnorae and T. sandersi, by the following combination of characters: male palpal tarsus undivided, tapering apically; male retrolateral tibial spine stout, sculptured throughout, length 0.4× tarsus length (RTS, Fig. 37B); embolus curved distally and with basal tooth (E, Fig. 37D). Separated from Tayshaneta anopica, Tayshaneta oconnorae and T. sandersi by being darkly pigmented with large eyes (Fig. 16A–C) and by the unique shape of the embolus (E, Fig. 37D).

Description.

Complete description in Gertsch (1974: 169–170). Habitus of male in Figs 16A–C, scanning electron micrographs of male palp in Figs 37A–F and female genitalia in Fig. 52F.

Tayshaneta concinna (Gertsch, 1974), Lost Gold Cave, Travis County, Texas (male holotype, AMNH), habitus. A Tayshaneta concinna male, dorsal B Tayshaneta concinna male, ventral C Tayshaneta concinna male, lateral.

Distribution.

Known from three caves in Travis County, Texas (Fig. 54).

Natural History.

Individuals collected in Stark’s North Mine were found in small sheet webs at the base of chalk walls, rotting wood and breakdown material.

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta devia http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_devia (Gertsch, 1974)Figs 17A–E31B38A–F53A56Leptoneta deviaGertsch 1974: 171.Neoleptoneta devia (Gertsch, 1974): Brignoli 1977: 216; Platnick 1986: 8.Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Female holotype from Shultz Cave, 2mi. E. of Volente, Travis County, Texas, 21-August-1963, B. Russell, 30.43N, 97.86W, (AMNH, examined).

Notes.

Shultz Cave is commonly referred to as MacDonald Cave and is located approximately 2.5mi. NE of Volente in Travis County. Although the male for this species was not available to Gertsch (1974), recent inventories of caves in this area have produced the first male specimens and added several new records from nearby caves. Of special interest are records from leaf litter near the entrance of Tooth Cave (type locality for Tayshaneta myopica), approximately 2 miles south of MacDonald Cave. Although Gertsch (1974: 171–172) originally described Tayshaneta devia as a troglobite based on the type specimen’s reduced eyes and pigment, the discovery of surface populations suggests that the species is a widespread troglophile although some populations may be locally adapted to caves. One record from Williamson County (Village Idiot Cave) is tentative as diagnostic structures on the male palp are partially obscured.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Travis County: Brewpot Sink, 19-October-2009, K. O’Connor, 30.41N, 97.85W, 3 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM);Hammett’s Crossing, 14mi. NW of Dripping Springs, 29-September-1994, A. Grubbs, 30.33N, 98.13W, 1 ♂, 2 ♀, (TMM); Highway 71 and Pedernales River, 23mi. W. of Austin, 20-September-1994, A. Grubbs, 30.38N, 98.08W, 2 ♂, 6 ♀, 2 juvs, (TMM); MacDonald Cave, 18-April-1984, Pate, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.43N, 97.86W, 1 ♀, (TMM); MacDonald Cave, 29-April-1989, W. Elliot, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.43N, 97.86W, 3 ♀, (AMNH); MacDonald Cave, 7-January-2005, P. Paquin, 30.43N, 97.86W, 1 ♀, (CASC); MacDonald Cave, September-2008, P. Paquin, 30.43N, 97.86W, 3 ♂, 4 ♀, 4 juvs, (CASC); Stovepipe Cave, 25-October-1990, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.42N, 97.84W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (TMM); Stovepipe Cave, 18-September-2009, K. O’Connor, 30.42N, 97.84W, 1 ♀, (TMM); surface above Tooth Cave, 21-November-08, P. Paquin, K. O’Connor, 30.40N, 97.85W, sifting leaf litter, 1 ♂, 3 ♀, (TMM); 9K-2 Cave (=Moonmilk Cave), Spicewood Springs Road, 11-February-95, Elliot, Sprouse, 30.37N, 97.76W, 1 ♂, 2 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Williamson County: Village Idiot Cave, 31-October-94, Warton, 30.73N, 97.83W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta devia may be separated from other Tayshaneta species that lack a ventral sclerite, except Tayshaneta archambaulti and Tayshaneta coeca, by having a short retrolateral tibial spine, occupying less than 0.5× the length of the palpal tarsus (RTS, Fig. 38A) and an apically tapering subquadrate embolus that lacks sculpture along its margin (E, Fig. 38D). Separated from Tayshaneta archambaulti and Tayshaneta coeca by having a retrolateral tibial spine with a base that lacks distinctive sculpture (RTS, Fig. 31B) and by the unique shape of the embolus (E, Fig. 38D).

Description.

Complete description of female in Gertsch (1974: 171–172). Habitus of male and female in Figs 17A–E and female genitalia in Fig. 53A.

Male (MacDonald Cave). Body length 1.4, carapace 0.58 long, 0.49 wide, length 1.18× width. Carapace light brown-yellow, sparsely setose; eyes large, ocular area enclosed in a dark pattern. Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.4× carapace length, covered in fine setae with few scattered spines.Palpal tarsus entire, tapering apically; retrolateral tibial spine on an elevated base, weakly recurved and smooth at its base, length 0.36× tarsus length. Bulb suboval, length 1.70× width; embolus oval, tapering apically (Fig. 38D), length 1.90× width. Abdomen yellow-brown, without pattern, 0.81 long, 0.61 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 6). Total length 1.25–1.40; carapace length 1.20–1.52 × carapace width; length femur I 1.0–1.4 × carapace width.

Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974), MacDonald Cave, Travis County, Texas (CASC), habitus. A Tayshaneta devia male, dorsal B Tayshaneta devia female, dorsal C Tayshaneta devia female holotype, ventral D Tayshaneta devia male, lateral E Tayshaneta devia female, lateral.

Distribution.

Known from caves and surface localities in Travis and Williamson Counties, Texas (Fig. 56).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta emeraldae urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:D8DCEBB5-6DE2-4C79-8E16-C465282BBC99 http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_emeraldae sp. n.Figs 18A–F39A–F53B60Type data.

Male holotype and female from Emerald Sink, Val Verde County, Texas, 3-November-1984, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.84N, 101.55W, (AMNH).

Etymology.

The species name is taken in apposition to the type locality.

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta emeraldae sp. n. can be separated from all Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta grubbsi, Tayshaneta valverdae and Tayshaneta vidrio, by having the following combination of characters: male palpal tarsus divided apically; ventral sclerite short, mesoapically positioned (VS, Fig. 39E); retrolateral sclerite present, pocket-like (RS, Fig. 39D). Separated from Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta grubbsi, Tayshaneta valverdae and Tayshaneta vidrio by having a distally tapering subquadrate embolus (E, Fig. 39D).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.45, carapace 0.63 long, 0.52 wide, length 1.20× width. Carapace orange-brown, sparsely setose; eyes large, ocular area enclosed in a dark pattern (Figs 18A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.63× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Palpal tarsus divided apically; retrolateral tibial spine smooth at its base, length 0.51× tarsus width. Bulb suboval, length 1.66× width; embolus subquadrate, with weak basal swelling (E, Fig. 39D), length 2.0× width. Ventral sclerite stout, situated mesoapically (VS, Fig. 39E); retrolateral sclerite pocket-like, weakly invaginated (RS, Fig. 39D). Abdomen pale yellow, without pattern, 0.81 long, 0.61 wide, covered in fine setae.

Female (Emerald Sink).Body length 1.60, carapace 0.63 long, 0.50 wide, length 1.25× width. Pigmentation and setation same as for male (Figs 18D–F). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.4× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Atrium trapezoidal, length 0.5× width, spermathecae with twisted stalks and large, circular heads (Fig. 53B). Abdomen pale yellow, without pattern, 0.96 long, 0.65 wide, covered in fine setae.

Tayshaneta emeraldae sp. n., Emerald Sink, Val Verde County, Texas (AMNH), habitus. A male, dorsal B male, ventral C male, lateral D female, dorsal E female, ventral F female, lateral.

Distribution.

Known only from Emerald Sink, Val Verde County, Texas (Fig. 60).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta fawcetti urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:BA9C2F69-2835-4D9B-96E8-E34FAD673B87 http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_fawcetti sp. n.Figs 2B19A–F31D40A–F53C60Leptoneta valverdaeGertsch 1974: 174.Tayshaneta valverdae (Gertsch, 1974): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Male holotype from Fawcett’s Cave, Devil’s River State Natural Area, Val Verde County, Texas, 10-November-2009, J. Ledford, J. Kennedy, M. Sanders, T. Garot, K. Wardlaw, 29.90N, 100.91W, (CASC).

Etymology.

The species name is taken in apposition to the type locality and honors the Fawcett family, who owned Fawcett’s Cave and the surrounding Fawcett Ranch prior to its transition as a State Natural Area in 1988.

Notes.

Specimens from Fawcett’s Cave were originally considered by Gertsch (1974) as conspecific with Tayshaneta valverdae based on similarities in somatic morphology and geography. Male specimens from Fawcett’s Cave were unknown at the time and Gertsch (1974) could not evaluate their genitalic morphology. Recent work at Fawcett’s Cave has recovered a series of male and female specimens which are morphologically distinct from Tayshaneta valverdae and appear to not be closely related to other species-groups within Tayshaneta (Figs 4–7).

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Val Verde County: Fawcett’s Cave, 8mi. W. of Loma Alta, 25-March-1961, M. Tandy, 29.90N, 100.91W, 2 juvs, (AMNH); Fawcett’s Cave, 6mi. N. of Del Rio, 10-April-1968, J. Reddell, 29.90N, 100.91W, 1 ♀, 2 juvs, (AMNH); Fawcett’s Cave, 6mi. N. of Del Rio, 10-November-2009, J. Ledford, J. Kennedy, M. Sanders, T. Garot, K. Wardlaw, 29.90N, 100.91W, 6 ♂, 12 ♀, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta fawcetti can be separated from all Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta emeraldae, Tayshaneta grubbsi, Tayshaneta valverdae and Tayshaneta vidrio, by having the following combination of characters: male palpal tarsus divided apically (TS, Fig. 31D); ventral sclerite short, mesoapically positioned (VS, Fig. 40E); retrolateral sclerite present, pocket-like (RS, Fig. 40E, F). Separated from Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta grubbsi, Tayshaneta valverdae and Tayshaneta vidrio by having a distally tapering subquadrate embolus with a distinct basal tooth (E, Fig. 40C, F).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.56, carapace 0.67 long, 0.58 wide, length 1.15× width. Carapace pale brown, slightly darker surrounding edges, sparsely setose; eyes reduced, ocular area depigmented (Figs 19A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.83× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Palpal tarsus divided apically (Fig. 31D); retrolateral tibial spine smooth at its base (RTS, Fig. 40D), length 0.38× tarsus width. Bulb suboval, length 1.8× width; embolus rectangular, with basal tooth (E, Fig. 40F), length 1.25× width. Ventral sclerite stout, situated mesoapically (VS, Fig. 40E), retrolateral sclerite pocket-like, weakly invaginated (RS, Figs 40E, F).Abdomen pale brown, without pattern, 0.89 long, 0.67 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 2). Total length 1.50–1.56; carapace length 1.15–1.2 × carapace width; length femur I 1.72–1.83 × carapace width.

Female (Fawcett’s Cave).Body length 1.4, carapace 0.60 long, 0.50 wide, length 1.17× width. Pigmentation and setation same as for male, except ocular area with a faint dark pattern enclosing the AER (Figs 19D–F). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.6× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Atrium trapezoidal, length 0.73× width, spermathecae with short twisted stalks and elongate heads (Fig. 53C).Abdomen pale brown, without pattern, 0.80 long, 0.58 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 2). Total length 1.25–1.40; carapace length 1.20–1.52 × carapace width; length femur I 1.0–1.4 × carapace width.

Tayshaneta fawcetti sp. n., Fawcett’s Cave, Val Verde County, Texas (CASC), habitus. A Tayshaneta fawcetti male, dorsal B Tayshaneta fawcetti male, ventral C Tayshaneta fawcetti male, lateral D Tayshaneta fawcetti female, dorsal E Tayshaneta fawcetti female, ventral F Tayshaneta fawcetti female, lateral.

Distribution.

Known only from Fawcett’s Cave in the Devil’s River State Natural Area, Val Verde County, Texas (Fig. 60).

Natural History.

Individuals of Tayshaneta fawcetti were photographed during a 2009 expedition to Fawcett’s Cave (Fig. 2B) where they were observed to make fine sheet webs similar to other leptonetid spiders. Male and female pairs were often found in the same web and the egg-sacs were suspended near the web margins. Most specimens were found at the base of the cave’s vertical entrance in twilight under loose rocks and breakdown material.

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta grubbsi urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:22A96E29-F1DE-4AEB-8B90-5DF97342F67A http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_grubbsi sp. n.Figs 20A–C32E41A–F60Type data.

Male holotype from Litterbarrel Cave, 5mi. southeast of Comstock, Val Verde County, Texas, 1-September-1974, S. Sweet, M. Reaka, 29.65N, 101.16W, (AMNH).

Etymology.

This species is named in honor of Andy Grubbs, a remarkable collector of several new Tayshaneta species throughout Texas.

Note.

The coloration of this specimen has likely been affected by its preservation conditions.

Diagnosis. Tayshaneta grubbsi can be separated from all Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta emeraldae, Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta valverdae and Tayshaneta vidrio, by having the following combination of characters: male palpal tarsus divided apically; ventral sclerite short, mesoapically positioned (VS, Fig. 41E); retrolateral sclerite present, pocket-like (RS, Fig. 40A, E). Separated from Tayshaneta emeraldae Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta valverdae and Tayshaneta vidrio by the unique oval shape of the embolus (Fig. 41D) and the very short ventral sclerite (VS, Fig. 41E).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.36, carapace 0.58 long, 0.51 wide, length 1.14× width. Carapace dark orange-brown, sparsely setose; eyes large, ocular area enclosed in a faint dark pattern (Figs 20A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.8× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Palpal tarsus divided apically; retrolateral tibial spine smooth at its base, length 0.40× tarsus width (RTS, Fig. 41A). Bulb suboval, length 1.8× width; embolus oval, with apical fold (E, Fig. 41D), length 1.8× width. Ventral sclerite short, situated mesoapically (VS, Fig. 41E); retrolateral sclerite pocket-like, weakly invaginated (RS, Figs 41A, E). Abdomen pale yellow, without pattern, 0.81 long, 0.61 wide, covered in fine setae.

Tayshaneta grubbsi sp. n., Litterbarrel Cave, Val Verde County, Texas (AMNH), habitus. Color of specimen significantly darkened due to preservation issues. A Tayshaneta grubbsi male holotype, dorsal B Tayshaneta grubbsi male holotype, ventral C Tayshaneta grubbsi male holotype, lateral.

Distribution.

Known only from Litterbarrel Cave, Val Verde County, Texas (Fig. 60).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta madla urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:8BA1EF6D-5FE0-4842-B814-D92C99DFDBA3 http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_madla sp. n.Figs 21A–C31F32F42A–F53D59Type data.

Male holotype from Madla’s Cave, Bexar County, Texas, 18-December-2003, K. White, 29.60N, 98.69W, (CASC).

Etymology.

This species name is taken in apposition to the type locality and honors the Madla family, owners of Madla’s Cave and the surrounding property.

Notes.

Although the majority of records for this species are from caves, a small series of individuals have been collected from leaf litter near the entrance to Madla’s Cave that are genetically identical to specimens within the cave. The somatic morphology of the species (large, darkly pigmented eyes; Figs 21A–C) coupled with the surface records suggests that it is likely a widespread troglophile.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Bexar County: Cave Number 18, 4 miles NE of Helotes, 13-January-1995, A. Grubbs, 29.60N, 98.69W, 1 ♂, 2 ♀, (TMM); Cave Number 189, 4 miles NE of Helotes, 12-January-1995, A. Grubbs, N. Lake, Wade, 4 ♂, 6 ♀, 4J (TTU); Madla’s Cave, 18-December-2003, K. White, 29.60N, 98.69W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (TMM); Madla’s Cave, 9-March-2005, P. Paquin, 29.60N, 98.69W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (CASC); Madla’s Drop, 8-June-1993, Loftin, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, G. Veni, 29.62N, 98.71W, 1 ♂, (TMM); Scorpion Cave, 1-June-1993, Loftin, J. Reddell, 29.58N, 98.68W, 1 ♂, 6 ♀, 1 juv. (TMM); Young Cave Number 1, 6-September-1993, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.62N, 98.66W, 1 ♂, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta madla may be separated from all Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta bullis and Tayshaneta microps, by having males with an elongate retrolateral tibial spine (Figs 31F, 32F), more than 0.5× length of the palpal tarsus and lacking a ventral sclerite (Figs 42B, E). Separated from Tayshaneta bullis and Tayshaneta microps by the unique shape of the embolus with an enlarged basal tooth (E, Fig. 42D, F).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.21, carapace 0.58 long, 0.45 wide, length 1.28× width. Carapace pale brown, slightly darker surrounding edges, sparsely setose.

Eyes large, ocular area enclosed in a dark pattern (Figs 21A–C). Legs short and thin, femur I 1.3× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Palpal tarsus tapering to weakly divided apically (TS, Fig. 31F); retrolateral tibial spine elongate, sculptured throughout, length 0.58× tarsus length (RTS, Fig. 32F). Bulb suboval, length 1.84× width; embolus oval, with large basal tooth (E, Fig. 42F), length 1.32× width. Abdomen yellow-white, without pattern, 0.63 long, 0.45 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 5). Total length 1.14–1.45; carapace length 1.16–1.29 × carapace width; length femur I 1.3–1.71 × carapace width.

Female (Madla’s Cave).Body length 1.83, carapace 0.74 long, 0.58 wide, length 1.28× width. Pigmentation and setation same as for male. Legs short and thin, femur I 1.5× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Atrium trapezoidal, length 0.56× width, spermathecae with twisted stalks and large, circular heads (Fig. 53D). Abdomen yellow-white, without pattern, 1.09 long, 0.78 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 3). Total length 1.45–1.83; carapace length 1.21–1.34 × carapace width; length femur I 1.14–1.51 × carapace width.

Tayshaneta madla sp. n., Madla’s Cave, Bexar County, Texas (CASC), habitus. A Tayshaneta madla female, dorsal B Tayshaneta madla female, ventral C Tayshaneta madla female, lateral.

Distribution.

Known only from Madla’s Cave in Bexar County, Texas (Fig. 59).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta microps http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_microps (Gertsch, 1974)Figs 1B10A–B22A–F31C32C43A–F53E59Leptoneta micropsGertsch 1974: 171–172.Neoleptoneta microps (Gertsch, 1974): Brignoli 1977: 216; Platnick 1986: 8; Reddell 1988: 34; Cokendolpher 2004: 64; Reddell and Cokendolpher 2004: 86; Platnick 2010.Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Female holotype from Government Canyon Bat Cave, 5 miles SW Helotes, Bexar County, Texas, 11-August-1965, J. Reddell, J. Fish (AMNH, examined).

Notes.

Tayshaneta microps was listed under the Endangered Species Act in 2001 (U. S. Fish and Wildlife, 2010) due to pressure from urbanization in areas surrounding San Antonio, Texas. Two records are currently reported for the species, Government Canyon Bat Cave and Surprise Sink, both of which are in Northern Bexar County. The two specimens from Surprise Sink were examined in detail and while they share reduced eyes similar to Tayshaneta microps, both specimens are immature cannot be confirmed as this species in the absence of associated males.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Bexar County: Government Canyon Bat Cave, 5 miles SW Helotes, 24-April-1993, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.56N, 98.76W, 1 ♀, (TTU); Government Canyon Bat Cave, 5 miles SW Helotes, 24-May-1993, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.56N, 98.76W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Government Canyon Bat Cave, 5 miles SW Helotes, 24-May-1998, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.56N, 98.76W, 4 ♀, (TMM); Government Canyon Bat Cave, 5 miles SW Helotes, 12-March-2005, P. Paquin, 29.56N, 98.76W, 2 ♂, 2 ♀, 6 juvs, (TMM); Government Canyon Bat Cave, 5 miles SW Helotes, 12-November-2009, J. Ledford, M. Sanders, N. Lake, 29.56N, 98.76W, 1 ♂, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta microps may be separated from all Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta bullis and Tayshaneta madla, by having males with an elongate retrolateral tibial spine (RTS, Figs 31F, 32F), more than 0.5× length of the palpal tarsus and lacking a ventral sclerite (Figs 42B, E). Separated from Tayshaneta bullis and Tayshaneta madla by the unique shape of the embolus (Fig. 43D).

Description.

Complete description of female in Gertsch (1974: 171–172). Habitus of male and female in Figs 22A–F, scanning electron micrographs of male genitalia in Figs 43A–F and female genitalia in Fig. 53E.

Male. (Government Canyon Bat Cave). Body length 1.27, carapace 0.56 long, 0.47 wide, length 1.19× width. Carapace light brown, sparsely setose; eyes greatly reduced (Figs 10A–B; 22A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.64× carapace length, covered in fine setae with few scattered spines. Palpal tarsus entire, tapering apically (Fig. 31C); retrolateral tibial spine elongate, sculptured throughout, length 0.50× tarsus length (Fig. 31C, 32C). Bulb suboval, length 1.76× width; embolus distally oval, curved and with basal tooth (E, Fig. 43D), length 2.0× width. Abdomen light brown, without pattern, 0.70 long, 0.50 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 6). Total length 1.25–1.40; carapace length 1.20–1.52 × carapace width; length femur I 1.0–1.4 × carapace width.

Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974), Government Canyon Bat Cave, Bexar County, Texas (CASC), habitus. A Tayshaneta microps male, dorsal B Tayshaneta microps male, ventral C Tayshaneta microps male, lateral D Tayshaneta microps female, dorsal E Tayshaneta microps female, ventral F Tayshaneta microps female, lateral.

Natural History.

One adult male specimen was collected for DNA extraction and scanning electron microscopy in November 2009. Although only a single male was found, immature and female specimens were commonly observed in small sheet webs under breakdown material and at the base of walls on opposite sides of the cave entrance.

Distribution.

Known only from Government Canyon Bat Cave, Bexar County, Texas (Fig. 59).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta myopica http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_myopica (Gertsch, 1974)Figs 2A, 2C23A–F44A–F53F5557Leptoneta myopicaGertsch 1974: 168.Neoleptoneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974): Brignoli 1977: 216; Platnick 1986: 9.Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Male holotype from Tooth Cave, Travis County, Texas, 30-March-1965, J. Reddell, 30.40N, 97.85W, (AMNH, examined).

Notes.

Tayshaneta myopica was listed under the Endangered Species Act in 1988 (U. S. Fish and Wildlife, 2010) due to its extremely limited distribution in a rapidly urbanizing area outside of Austin, Texas. Recent work has been directed at refining the distribution of the species in order to set recovery goals and several additional localities were discovered during the course of this study (Fig. 56). Of special interest are caves near the type locality which share identical mitochondrial and nuclear DNA haplotypes (Tooth Cave, Root Cave, Gallifer Cave and Tight Pit) suggesting that individuals move between sites.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Travis County: Cortaña Cave, 13-September-2006, Shade, Rykwalder, 30.38N, 97.85W, 1 ♀, (TTU); Cortaña Cave, 25-September-2007, P. Sprouse, K. McDermid, 30.38N, 97.85W, 2 ♀, (TTU); Cortaña Cave, 3-October-2007, J. Krejca, P. Sprouse, 30.38N, 97.85W, 1 juv., (TTU); Cortaña Cave, 14-October-2009, K. O’Connor, 30.38N, 97.85W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Gallifer Cave, 20-April-1991, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.40N, 97.85W, 1 ♂, 3 juvs, (TMM); Gallifer Cave, 7-January-2005, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.40N, 97.85W, 1 ♂, 3 ♀, (TMM); Geode Cave, 11-August-1993, W. Elliot, 30.39N, 97.86W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Geode Cave, 21-July-1994, W. Elliot, P. Sprouse, 30.39N, 97.86W, 2 ♂, 7 ♀, 2 juvs, (TMM); Geode Cave, 11-August-1994, W. Elliot, 30.39N, 97.86W, 2 ♂, 4 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Geode Cave, 13-September-1994, W. Elliot, 30.39N, 97.86W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Geode Cave, 18-July-2007, K. O’Connor, 30.39N, 97.86W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Geode Cave, 16-October-2007, Myers, 30.39N, 97.86W, 2 juvs, (TTU); Geode Cave, 31-October-2007, J. Krejca, 30.39N, 97.86W, 2 ♂, 4 ♀, 8 juvs, (TTU); Jester Estate’s Cave, 14-March-2006, M. Sanders, 30.39N, 97.79W, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Jester Estate’s Cave, 18-September-2009, M. Sanders, 30.39N, 97.79W, 1 ♂, 3 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); McNeil Bat Cave, 2-March-1986, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.09N, 97.72W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (AMNH); McNeil Bat Cave, 11-March-2005, P. Paquin, 30.45N, 97.72W, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (CASC); New Comanche Trail Cave, 11-January-1989, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.39N, 97.86W, 2 ♀, (AMNH); New Comanche Trail Cave, 26-January-1989, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 30.39N, 97.86W, 2 ♂, 1 ♀, 2 juvs, (AMNH); New Comanche Trail Cave, 16-October-2007, J. Krejca, 30.39N, 97.86W, 1 ♂, 3 ♀, (TTU); New Comanche Trail Cave, 23-October-2007, P. Sprouse, 30.39N, 97.86W, 2 juvs, (TMM); Root Cave, 1-September-2008, P. Paquin, 30.40N, 97.85W, 1 juv., (TMM); Steiner Telephone Pole Cave, 17-July-2008, J. Ledford, P. Paquin, M. Archambault, 30.39N, 97.86W, 1 ♂, 3 ♀, 1 juv., (CASC); Tight Pit, 14-October-2009, K. O’Connor, 1 ♀, (TMM); Tooth Cave, 25-February-1963, D. McKenzie, J. Reddell, 30.40N, 97.85W, 1 ♂, 3 ♀, (AMNH); Tooth Cave, 5-March-1964, J. Reddell, D. McKenzie, T. Phillips, 30.40N, 97.85W, 1 ♀, (AMNH); Tooth Cave, 9-June-1967, D. McKenzie, J. Reddell, 30.40N, 97.85W, 2 ♂, 4 ♀, (AMNH); Tooth Cave, 8-March-1968, J. Reddell, W. Russell, S. Fowler, 30.40N, 97.85W, 1 ♀, (AMNH); Tooth Cave, 19-July-1970, D. McKenzie, J. Reddell, 30.40N, 97.85W, 4 ♀, (AMNH); Tooth Cave, 24-May-1992, J. Reddell, 30.40N, 97.85W, 1 juv., (AMNH); Tooth Cave, 1-September-2008, P. Paquin, 30.40N, 97.85W, 2 ♂, 8 ♀, 6 juvs, (TMM); Williamson County: Goat Cave, 1-September-2008, P. Paquin, 30.49N, 97.71W, 1 ♀, 2 juvs, (CASC).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta myopica may be separated from all other Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta paraconcinna, by having an elongate ventral sclerite (VS, Fig. 44E) and a broad spoon shaped embolus (E, Fig. 44D). Separated from Tayshaneta paraconcinna by having the embolus sharply projecting ventrally (Fig. 44D) and having a recurved, but not sickle-shaped, retrolateral tibial spine (RTS, Fig. 44A).

Description.

Complete description in Gertsch (1974: 169–170). Habitus of male and female in Figs 23A–F, scanning electron micrographs of male palp in Figs 44A–F and female genitalia in Fig. 53F.

Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974), Tooth Cave, Travis County, Texas (CASC), habitus. A Tayshaneta myopica male, dorsal B Tayshaneta myopica male, ventral C Tayshaneta myopica male, lateral D Tayshaneta myopica female, dorsal E Tayshaneta myopica female, ventral F Tayshaneta myopica female, lateral.

Distribution.

Known from caves in Travis and Williamson Counties, Texas (Fig. 57).

Natural History.

Individuals in Geode Cave and Tooth Cave were observed suspended beneath sheet webs at the bases of stable rocks and breakdown material (Figs 2A, 2C). When disturbed, individuals would drop from their webs and fold their legs in a protective posture similar to that reported for Calileptoneta (Ledford, 2004).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta oconnorae urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:1D28692E-D4C1-454F-A2FA-6AD0AF1AE2FA http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_oconnorae sp. n.Figs 24A–C45A–F58Type data.

Male holotype from Fern Cave, Hays County, Texas, 26-May-1989, A. Grubbs, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.97N, 97.99W, (AMNH).

Etymology.

This species is named in honor of Kathleen O’ Connor, fellow caver and biologist who helped collect many exciting Tayshaneta specimens.

Notes.

A single adult male collected from Cathy’s Cave, Hays County, Texas shares the genitalic morphology of Tayshaneta oconnori but was damaged during examination and only the right palp remains. The specimen was highly troglobitic and is tentatively assigned to Tayshaneta oconnori until additional specimens can be collected.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Hays County: Cathy’s Cave, 15-March-2005, P. Paquin, 29.90N, 98.08W, 1 ♂, (CASC).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta oconnori may be separated from all Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta anopica and Tayshaneta sandersi, by having the following combination of characters: pigmentation and eyes entirely absent (Figs 24A–C); legs extremely long and thin, femur I 1.8–1.9× carapace length; embolus with a distinctive apical bifurcation (E, Fig. 45D). Separated from Tayshaneta anopica and Tayshaneta sandersi by having the ventral sclerite straight and short, not extending past the base of the embolus (VS, Fig. 45E) and by the unique shape of the embolus (E, Fig. 45D).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.1, carapace 0.52 long, 0.40 wide, length 1.31× width. Carapace depigmented, sparsely setose; eyes absent (Figs 24A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.93× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines. Palpal tarsus entire, tapering apically; retrolateral tibial spine recurved, sculptured throughout, length 0.40× tarsus length. Bulb suboval, length 1.66× width; embolus oval, bifurcate apically (E, Fig. 45D), length 1.2× width. Abdomen depigmented, without pattern, 0.58 long, 0.45 wide, covered in fine setae.

Tayshaneta oconnorae sp. n., Fern Cave, Hays County, Texas (AMNH), habitus. A Tayshaneta oconnorae male holotype, dorsal B Tayshaneta oconnorae male holotype, ventral C Tayshaneta oconnorae male holotype, lateral.

Distribution.

Known only from two caves in Hays County, Texas (Fig. 58).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta paraconcinna http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_paraconcinna (Cokendolpher & Reddell, 2001)Figs 25A–F31A32A46A–F54A57Neoleptoneta paraconcinnaCokendolpher and Reddell 2001: 46; Platnick 2010.Tayshaneta paraconcinna (Cokendolpher and Reddell 2001): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Male holotype from Peep in the Deep Cave, Fort Hood, Bell County, Texas, 8-May-1998, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, (AMNH).

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Bell County: Camp 6 Cave Number 1, Fort Hood, 5-April-1999, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, 1 ♂, (TMM); Figure 8 Cave, Fort Hood, 20-April-1998, Graves, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, 1 ♀, (TMM);Hidden Pit Cave, Fort Hood, 18-August-2003, Perkins, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, 1 ♀, 3 juvs, (TMM);Hidden Pit Cave, Fort Hood, 21-March-2004, J. Fant, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, 1 ♀, 3 juvs, (TMM);Peep in the Deep Cave, Fort Hood, 8-May-1998, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, 1 ♀, (TMM);Peep in the Deep Cave, Fort Hood, 21-April-1998, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, 2 ♀, (TMM);Peep in the Deep Cave, Fort Hood, 3-November-1998, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, 1 ♀, (TMM);Peep in the Deep Cave, Fort Hood, 8-June-2010, J. Fant, 31.20N, 97.51W, 3 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Talking Crows Cave, Fort Hood, 20-May-1998, Graves, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 31.20N, 97.51W, 1 juv., (TMM); Blanco County: Flat Creek Ranch, 12miles E. Johnson City, 28-May-1995, A. Grubbs, 30.27N, 98.21W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (TTU); Pedernales State Park, 17-December-2003, P. Paquin, W. Wytrykush, 30.30N, 98.26W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (CASC); Burnet County: Doublehorn Creek and Highway 71, 4.9 miles SE Marble Falls, 20-January-1995, A. Grubbs, 30.49N, 98.23W, 3 ♂, 5 ♀, 4 juvs, (TMM); Moon Rocks Ranch, 5 miles W. Spicewood, A. Grubbs, Waid, 30.47N, 98.24W, 1 ♂, (TMM); County Road 404, 5 miles W. Spicewood, site #1, 29-November-1994, A. Grubbs, 30.47N, 98.24W, 1 ♂, 3 ♀, (TTU); Travis County: Hwy. 71 and Pedernales River, 23mi. W. Austin, 3-October-1994, Grubbs, 30.38N, 98.08W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (TMM); Hwy. 71 and Pedernales River, 23mi. W. Austin, 17-November-2009, P. Paquin, J. Ledford, 30.38N, 98.08W, 18 ♂, 14 ♀, 4 juvs, (CASC); Williamson County: Fissure F-8, The Sanctuary, 3.3mi. W. Georgetown, A. Grubbs, 1 ♂, (TMM); Lizard’s Lounge Cave, F-11, 3.3mi. W. Georgetown, 14-Aug-2003, Fant, A. Grubbs, 30.62N, 97.73W, 2 ♂, 2 ♀, (TMM); On Campus Cave, 1-Sep-2008, P. Paquin, 30.61N, 97.69W, 1 ♀, (CASC); Salt Lick Cave, the Sanctuary, 3.3mi. W. Georgetown, A. Grubbs, 30.62N, 97.73W, 4 ♂, 3 ♀, 1 juv. (TMM); Scoot Over Cave, 1-April-1994, Warton, 30.48N, 97.72W, 2 ♂, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Serta Cave, 1-April-1994, Warton, 30.48N, 97.72W, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM);Short Stack Cave, 1-April-1994, Warton, 30.53N, 97.70W, 1 ♂, 2 ♀, (TTU);Short Stack Cave, 19-May-1995, J. Reddell, 30.53N, 97.70W, 1 ♂, 2 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM);Three Miles Cave (=Three Mile Bat Cave), 17-Aug-2008, P. Paquin, J. Ledford, M. Archambault, 30.63N, 97.73W, 6 ♀, 2 juvs, (CASC);Twin Springs Cave (=Whitney West Cave), 10.xii.2009, P. Paquin, 30.69N, 97.78W, 1 ♂, 1 juv., (CASC).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta paraconcinna may be separated from all other Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta myopica, by having an elongate ventral sclerite (VS, Fig. 46E) and a broad spoon shaped embolus (E, Fig. 46D). Separated from Tayshaneta myopica by having the embolus projecting anteriorly (E, Fig. 46D) and having a sharply recurved, sickle-shaped, retrolateral tibial spine (RTS, Fig. 46A).

Description.

Complete description in Cokendolpher (2001: 46). Habitus of male and female in Figs 25A–F, scanning electron micrographs of male palp in Figs 46A–F and female genitalia in Fig. 54A.

Tayshaneta paraconcinna (Cokendolpher & Reddell, 2001), Camp 6 Cave Number 1, Fort Hood, Bell County, Texas (TMM), habitus. A Tayshaneta paraconcinna male, dorsal B Tayshaneta paraconcinna male, ventral C Tayshaneta paraconcinna male, lateral D Tayshaneta paraconcinna female, dorsal E Tayshaneta paraconcinna female, ventral F Tayshaneta paraconcinna female, lateral.

Distribution.

Caves of Fort Hood, Bell County, Texas and surface localities in Blanco, Burnett, Travis and Williamson Counties, Texas (Fig. 57).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta sandersi urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:3722907F-76E3-475B-8A0A-77B574BC8A8E http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_sandersi sp. n.Figs 1C26A–C47A–F54B56Type data.

Female holotype from District Park Cave, Travis County, Texas, 19-November-2009, J. Ledford, M. Sanders, 30.21N, 97.85W, (CASC).

Etymology.

This species is named in honor of Mark Sanders, fellow caver, biologist, and collector of several Tayshaneta species in Texas.

Notes.

The only known adult male for Tayshaneta sandersi is from Whirlpool Cave and is missing most of its appendages and the carapace. Individuals from District Park Cave, Slaughter Creek Cave and Whirlpool Cave are genetically identical suggesting that the species may occur more broadly in the Onion Creek watershed of Barton Springs.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Travis County: Slaughter Creek Cave, 6-January-2005, P. Paquin, 30.19N, 97.87W, 1J, (CASC); Whirlpool Cave, 2-March-2005, P. Paquin, 1M, (TMM); District Park Cave, 19-November-2009, J. Ledford, M. Sanders, 30.21N, 97.85W, 1 ♀, 2J, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta sandersi may be separated from all Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta anopica and Tayshaneta oconnori, by having the following combination of characters: pigmentation and eyes entirely absent (Figs 26A–C); legs extremely long and thin, femur I 1.8–1.9× carapace length; embolus with a distinctive apical bifurcation (E, Fig. 47D). Separated from Tayshaneta anopica and Tayshaneta oconnori by having the ventral sclerite curved prolaterally (VS, Fig. 47E) and by the unique shape of the embolus (E, Fig. 47D).

Description.

Male (Whirlpool Cave, genitalia only). Palpal tarsus entire, tapering apically; retrolateral tibial spine recurved, sculptured throughout, length 0.38× tarsus length (Fig. 47A). Bulb suboval, length 1.97× width; embolus suboval, bifurcate apically (E, Fig. 47D), length 1.6× width. Ventral sclerite elongate, curved prolaterally (VS, Fig. 47E).

Female (holotype).Body length 1.2, carapace 0.58 long, 0.41 wide, length 1.39× width. Carapace depigmented, sparsely setose; eyes absent. Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.90× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Atrium suboval, length 0.41× width, spermathecae with twisted stalks and large, circular heads (Fig. 54B). Abdomen depigmented, 0.61 long, 0.49 wide, covered in fine setae.

Tayshaneta sandersi sp. n., District Park Cave, Travis County, Texas (CASC), habitus. A Tayshaneta sandersi female holotype, dorsal B Tayshaneta sandersi female holotype, ventral C Tayshaneta sandersi female holotype, lateral.

Natural History.

Three individuals were found deep in District Park Cave in fine sheet webs under loose rocks. The single male individual was found wandering among loose rocks in Whirlpool Cave.

Distribution.

Known from three caves in Travis County, Texas (Fig. 56).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta sprousei urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:9395BD71-ADF6-4F41-B8BC-8CD45F88A016 http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_sprousei sp. n.Figs 27A–C48A–F59Type data.

Male holotype from Constant Sorrow Cave, Camp Bullis, Bexar County, Texas, 6-March-2001, G. Veni, 29.63N, 98.58W, (AMNH).

Etymology.

This species is named in honor of Peter Sprouse, fellow caver, biologist and collector of several Tayshaneta species in Texas caves.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Bexar County: Breached Dam Cave, 4-October-1995, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 1 juv., (TMM);Breached Dam Cave, 1-November-2000, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 1 ♂, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta sprousei may be separated from all Tayshaneta species by having the following combination of characters: male palpal tarsus undivided, tapering apically (Fig. 48C); retrolateral tibial spine elongate, 0.5× length of palpal tarsus; embolus oval, smooth along margins (E, Fig. 48D); ventral sclerite short, less than the width of the embolus (Fig. 48B, D–F).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.1, carapace 0.47 long, 0.40 wide, length 1.18× width. Carapace pale yellow, sparsely setose; eyes surrounded by faint dark markings (Figs 27A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.19× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines. Palpal tarsus entire, tapering apically (TS, Fig. 48C); retrolateral tibial spine straight, sculptured throughout, length 0.49× tarsus length. Bulb suboval, length 1.52× width; embolus oval, smooth along margins (E, Fig. 48D), length 2.0× width; ventral sclerite short, less than embolus width (VS, Figs 48B, D–F). Abdomen pale yellow, without pattern, 0.63 long, 0.50 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 2). Total length 1.10–1.12; carapace length 1.18–1.36 × carapace width; length femur I 1.19–1.2 × carapace width.

Tayshaneta sprousei sp. n., Constant Sorrow Cave, Camp Bullis, Bexar County, Texas (TMM), habitus. A Tayshaneta sprousei male holotype, dorsal B Tayshaneta sprousei male holotype, ventral C Tayshaneta sprousei male holotype, lateral.

Distribution.

Known from two caves in Bexar County, Texas (Fig. 59).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta valverdae http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_valverdae (Gertsch, 1974)Figs 28A–F49A–F54C60Leptoneta valverdaeGertsch 1974: 173.Neoleptoneta valverdae (Gertsch, 1974): Brignoli 1977: 216; Platnick 1986: 10.Tayshaneta valverdae (Gertsch 1974): Ledford et al. 2011.Type data.

Male holotype from Oriente Milestone Molasses Bat Cave, 20 miles NE of Del Rio, Val Verde County, Texas, 25-January-1964, J. Reddell, McKenzie, Porter, 29.56N, 100.77W, (AMNH).

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Bandera County: Melanie’s Cave, Hill Country State Natural Area, 23-July-2000, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.63N, 99.18W, 1 ♂, 5 ♀, 2 juvs, (TMM); Harvestman Cave, Hill Country State Natural Area, 24-July-2000, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, 29.63N, 99.18W, 1 ♂, 2 ♀, 2 juvs, (TMM); Love Creek Ranch, 10.5 miles W. Medina, 6-October-1996, A. Grubbs, 29.79N, 99.42W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (TMM); Uvalde County: Big Fucking Snake Cave, 8-June-1985, A. Grubbs, AC, RW, 29.43N, 99.65W, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, (AMNH); Marneldo Ranch, 18-April-1997, A. Grubbs, 29.50N, 99.61W, 1 ♂, (TMM); Val Verde County: Oriente Milestone Molasses Bat Cave, 20 miles NE of Del Rio, 25-January-1964, 1 ♂, (AMNH).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta valverdae may be separated from all other Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta emeraldae, Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta grubbsi and Tayshaneta vidrio by having the male palpal tarsus divided apically (TS, Fig. 31D) and by having a mesoapically positioned ventral sclerite on the palpal bulb (VS, Fig. 49E). Separated from Tayshaneta emeraldae, Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta grubbsi and Tayshaneta vidrio by the unique shape of the embolus with a prominent basal tooth (Fig. 49D).

Description.

Complete description in Gertsch (1974: 173). Habitus of male and female in Figs 28A–F, scanning electron micrographs of male palp in Figs 49A–F and female genitalia in Fig. 54C.

Tayshaneta valverdae sp. n., Oriente Milestone Molasses Bat Cave, Val Verde County, Texas (AMNH), habitus. A Tayshaneta valverdae male holotype, dorsal B Tayshaneta valverdae male holotype, ventral C Tayshaneta valverdae male holotype, lateral.

Distribution.

Known from caves and surface localities in Bandera, Uvalde and Val Verde Counties, Texas (Fig. 60).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta vidrio urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:AFE6D515-6AC6-4C36-907B-5C513DAFA711 http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_vidrio sp. n.Figs 29A–C31E50A–F54D60Type data.

Male holotype from 400 Foot Cave, Glass Mountains, Brewster County, Texas, 30.38N, 103.15W, (AMNH).

Etymology.

This species name is derived from the Spanish name for the Glass Mountains “Sierra del Vidrio” in West Texas. The name is to be treated as a noun in apposition.

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta vidrio may be separated from all other Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta emeraldae, Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta grubbsi and Tayshaneta valverdae by having the male palpal tarsus divided apically (Fig. 31D) and by having a mesoapically positioned ventral sclerite on the palpal bulb (VS, Fig. 50E). Separated from Tayshaneta emeraldae, Tayshaneta fawcetti, Tayshaneta grubbsi and Tayshaneta valverdae by having an oval embolus that is smooth along its margins and a ventral sclerite with a distinct apical division (VS, Fig. 50D–F).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.98, carapace 0.80 long, 0.65 wide, length 1.22× width. Carapace orange-yellow, sparsely setose; eyes reduced, surrounded by faint dark markings (Figs 29A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.84× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines. Palpal tarsus divided apically (Fig. 31E); retrolateral tibial spine straight, sculptured throughout, length 0.51× tarsus length. Bulb suboval, length 1.70× width; embolus oval, curved at its base, smooth along margins (E, Fig. 50D), length 2.5× width. Abdomen pale yellow, without pattern, 1.18 long, 0.92 wide, covered in fine setae.

Female (400ft. Cave).Body length 1.49, carapace 0.63 long, 0.50 wide, length 1.25× width. Pigmentation, setation and eyes same as for male. Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.57× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Atrium oval, length 1.5× width, spermathecae with twisted stalks and elongate heads (Fig. 54D). Abdomen pale yellow, 0.85 long, 0.70 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 2). Total length 1.49–1.81; carapace length 1.10–1.25 × carapace width; length femur I 1.50–1.57 × carapace width.

Tayshaneta vidrio sp. n., 400 Foot Cave, Brewster County, Texas (AMNH), habitus. A Tayshaneta vidrio male holotype, dorsal B Tayshaneta vidrio male holotype, ventral C Tayshaneta vidrio male holotype, lateral.

Distribution.

Known only from 400 foot Cave, Brewster County, Texas (Fig. 60).

LedfordJoelPaquinPierreCokendolpherJamesCampbellJoshGriswoldCharlesSystematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves Zookeys23120122012167110210.3897/zookeys.167.1833 Tayshaneta whitei urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:A0D6F247-E6F5-4DBE-A2EF-4C5354D13AC2 http://species-id.net/wiki/Tayshaneta_whitei sp. n.Figs 1D30A–F51A–F54E59Type.

Male holotype from Lithic Ridge Cave, Government Canyon State Natural Area, Bexar County, Texas, 6-November-2002, Engelhard, J. Krejca, 29.56N, 98.74W, (AMNH).

Etymology.

This species is named in honor of Kemble White, fellow caver, geologist and collector of many Tayshneta species in Texas.

Other material examined.

USA: Texas: Bexar County: Caracol Creek Coon Cave, 15-June-1993, J. Loftin, J. Reddell, M. Reyes, G. Veni, 29.45N, 98.71W, 1 juv., (TMM); Caracol Creek Coon Cave, 10-March-2005, P. Paquin, 29.45N, 98.71W, 1 ♂, 2 ♀, 1 juv., (CASC); Cave site #801, West of Helotes, November-1999, K. White, 1 ♂, 1 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Lithic Ridge Cave, Government Canyon State Natural Area, 1-October-1994, Palit, Atkinson, 29.56N, 98.74W, 1 juv., (TMM); Lithic Ridge Cave, Government Canyon State Natural Area, 4-June-1995, G. Veni, 29.56N, 98.74W, 1 ♀, (TMM); Lithic Ridge Cave, Government Canyon State Natural Area, 6-November-2002, Englehard, J. Krejca, 29.56N, 98.74W, 2 ♂, 2 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Lithic Ridge Cave, Government Canyon State Natural Area, 12-November-2009, J. Ledford, M. Sanders, N. Lake, 29.56N, 98.74W, 2 ♂, 2 ♀, 1 juv., (TMM); Medina County: Medina Dam Cave, June-2010, K. McDermid, 1 juv., (TMM); Nisbet Cave, 4-March-2001, G. Veni, Waters, 29.53N, 98.91W, 1 ♂, (TMM).

Diagnosis.

Tayshaneta whitei may be separated from all Tayshaneta species, except Tayshaneta bullis and Tayshaneta microps, by having a combination of males with an elongate retrolateral tibial spine, more than 0.5× length of the palpal tarsus and lacking a ventral sclerite (Figs 51B, E). Separated from Tayshaneta bullis and Tayshaneta microps by the unique shape of the embolus (E, Fig. 51D) and the distinctive retrlolateral sclerite (RS, Figs 51D–E).

Description.

Male (holotype). Body length 1.52, carapace 0.61 long, 0.50 wide, length 1.21× width. Carapace brown, sparsely setose; eyes surrounded by dark markings (Figs 30A–C). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.61× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines. Palpal tarsus undivided, tapering apically; retrolateral tibial spine straight, sculptured throughout, length 0.51× tarsus length. Bulb suboval, length 1.71× width; embolus subquadrate, with small basal tooth (E, Fig. 51D–F), length 1.6× width. Abdomen white, without pattern, 0.90 long, 0.67 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 4). Total length 1.52–1.70; carapace length 1.16–1.21 × carapace width; length femur I 1.45–1.92 × carapace width.

Female (Lithic Ridge Cave).Body length 1.49, carapace 0.61 long, 0.49 wide, length 1.25× width. Carapace light brown, sparsely setose; eyes surrounded by dark markings (Figs 30D–F). Legs elongate and thin, femur I 1.58× carapace length, covered in fine setae and with few scattered spines.Atrium oval, length 0.5× width, spermathecae with twisted stalks and large, circular heads (Fig. 54E).Abdomen light brown, 0.90 long, 0.60 wide, covered in fine setae.

Variation (n = 3). Total length 1.41–1.80; carapace length 1.18–1.28 × carapace width; length femur I 1.33–1.58 × carapace width.

Tayshaneta whitei sp. n., Lithic Ridge Cave, Bexar County, Texas (CASC), habitus. A Tayshaneta whitei male, dorsal B Tayshaneta whitei male, ventral C Tayshaneta whitei male, lateral D Tayshaneta whitei female, dorsal E Tayshaneta whitei female, ventral F Tayshaneta whitei female, lateral.

Natural History.

Several individuals of Tayshaneta whitei were collected under loose stones near the bases of walls in Lithic Ridge Cave, Bexar County Texas.

Distribution.

Known from caves in Bexar and Medina Counties, Texas (Fig. 59).

Morphology of Tayshaneta right male palpi in dorsal view, showing differences in tarsal shape. A Tayshaneta paraconcinna (Cokendolpher & Reddell, 2001), Scoot Over Cave, Williamson County, Texas B Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974), Stovepipe Cave, Travis County, Texas C Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974), Bexar County, Texas D Tayshaneta fawcetti sp. n., Fawcett’s Cave, Val Verde County, Texas E Tayshaneta vidrio, sp. n., 400 foot Cave, Brewster County (RTS damaged), Texas F Tayshaneta madla sp. n., Madla’s Drop Cave, Bexar County, Texas.

General morphology of Tayshaneta male palpi, showing differences in retrolateral tibial spine. A Tayshaneta paraconcinna (Cokendolpher & Reddell, 2001), Scoot Over Cave, Williamson County, Texas B Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974), Stovepipe Cave, Travis County, Texas C Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974), Bexar County, Texas D Tayshaneta fawcetti sp. n., Fawcett’s Cave, Val Verde County, Texas E Tayshaneta grubbsi, sp. n., Litterbarrel Cave, Val Verde County, Texas F Tayshaneta madla sp. n., Cave Number 189, Bexar County, Texas.

Tayshaneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974), Cobb’s Cave, Williamson County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta archambaulti sp. n., Grapevine Ranch Cave, Hays County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta bullis (Cokendolpher, 2004), Up the Creek Cave, Camp Bullis, Bexar County, Texas (TMM), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Apical.

Tayshaneta coeca (Chamberlin and Ivie, 1942), Heidrich’s Cave, Comal County, Texas (AMNH), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Tarsus, dorsal D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Retrolateral tibial spine.

Tayshaneta concinna (Gertsch, 1974), Lost Gold Cave, Travis County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974), MacDonald Cave, Travis County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta emeraldae sp. n., Emerald Sink, Val Verde County, Texas (AMNH), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta fawcetti sp. n., Fawcett’s Cave, Val Verde County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Ventrolateral D Retrolateral tibial spine E Ventroapical F Retrolateral, embolus.

Tayshaneta grubbsi sp. n., Litterbarrel Cave, Val Verde County, Texas (AMNH), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Apical.

Tayshaneta madla sp. n., Madla’s Cave, Bexar County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Embolus.

Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974), Government Canyon Bat Cave, Bexar County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974), Tooth Cave, Travis County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Embolus.

Tayshaneta oconnorae sp. n., Fern Cave, Hays County, Texas (TMM), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta paraconcinna (Cokendolpher & Redell, 2001), Fern Cave, Hays County, Texas (TMM), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta sandersi sp. n., Whirlpool Cave, Travis County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Retroventral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Apical.

Tayshaneta sprousei sp. n., Constant Sorrow Cave, Camp Bullis, Bexar County, Texas (TMM), male right palp. A Ventral B Ventral sclerite C Tarsus, dorsal D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Apical.

Tayshaneta valverdae (Gertsch, 1974), Oriente Milestone Molasses Bat Cave, Val Verde County, Texas (AMNH), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Proapical.

Tayshaneta vidrio sp. n., 400 foot Cave, Brewster County, Texas (AMNH), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Embolus E Ventroapical F Ventral sclerite.

Tayshaneta whitei sp. n., Lithic Ridge Cave, Bexar County, Texas (CASC), male right palp. A Retrolateral B Ventral C Prolateral D Retrolateral, embolus E Ventroapical F Embolus.

Female genitalia forTayshaneta species. A Tayshaneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974), Corn Cobb’s Cave, Williamson County, Texas B Egg-sac of Tayshaneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974), Corn Cobb’s Cave, Williamson County, Texas C Tayshaneta archambaulti sp. n., Grapevine Cave, Hays County, Texas D Tayshaneta bullis (Cokendolpher, 2004), Up the Creek Cave, Bexar County, Texas E Tayshaneta coeca (Chamberlin and Ivie, 1942), Natural Bridge Caverns, Hays County, Texas F Tayshaneta concinna (Gertsch, 1974), Lost Gold Cave, Travis County, Texas.

Female genitalia forTayshaneta species. A Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974), MacDonald Cave, Travis County, Texas B Tayshaneta emeraldae sp. n., Emerald Sink, Val Verde County, Texas C Tayshaneta fawcetti sp. n., Fawcett’s Cave, Val Verde County, Texas D Tayshaneta madla sp. n., Madla’s Cave, Bexar County, Texas E Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974), Government Canyon Bat Cave, Bexar County, Texas F Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974), Tooth Cave, Travis County, Texas.

Female genitalia forTayshaneta species. A Tayshaneta paraconcinna (Cokendolpher & Reddell, 2001), Figure 8 Cave, Fort Hood, Bell County, Texas B Tayshaneta sandersi sp. n., District Park Cave, Travis County, Texas C Tayshaneta valverdae (Gertsch, 1974), Love Creek Ranch, Bandera County, Texas D Tayshaneta vidrio sp. n., 400 foot Cave, Brewster County, Texas E Tayshaneta whitei sp. n., Lithic Ridge Cave, Bexar County, Texas.

Distribution map showing morphotypes within Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974). A Tooth Cave B Goat Cave C McNeil Bat Cave D Jester Estates Caves E Steiner Telephone Pole Cave F Geode Cave.

Distribution map for Tayshaneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta concinna (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta sandersi sp. n. and Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974).

Distribution map for Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974) and Tayshaneta paraconcinna (Cokendolpher & Reddell, 2001).

Distribution map for Tayshaneta archambaulti sp. n. Tayshaneta coeca (Chamberlin and Ivie, 1942) and Tayshaneta oconnorae sp. n.

Distribution map for Tayshaneta madla sp. n., Tayshaneta bullis (Cokendolpher, 2004), Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974), Tayshaneta sprousei sp. n. and Tayshaneta whitei sp. n.

Distribution map for Tayshaneta emeraldae sp. n., Tayshaneta fawcetti sp. n., Tayshaneta grubbsi sp. n., Tayshaneta valverdae (Gertsch, 1974) and Tayshaneta vidrio sp. n.

Distribution map for undetermined Tayshaneta species.

Distribution of Tayshaneta species in Travis and Williamson Counties superimposed on Karst Faunal Regions (KFR’s).

Distribution of Tayshaneta species in Bexar County superimposed on Karst Faunal Regions.

General morphology of Tayshaneta species. A Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974) male, Government Canyon Bat Cave, carapace dorsal view B Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974) male, Government Canyon Bat Cave, ocular area C Tayshaneta coeca (Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942) male, New Braunfels, carapace dorsal view D Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974) male, Pedernales River, sternum E Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974) male, Pedernales River, carapace lateral view, arrow highlighting stridulatory file.

Spinneret morphology for male Tayshaneta species. A Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974) male, Pedernales River, arrow to colulus B Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974), MacDonald Cave, spinning field C Tayshaneta devia (Gertsch, 1974), MacDonald Cave, epiandrous spigots.

Map of the study area, with an inset highlighting the distribution of Tayshaneta on the Edward’s Plateau.

Images of habitat and cave entrances for Tayshaneta species. A Cobb’s Ranch, near Cobb’s Caverns, Williamson County, Texas, type locality for Tayshaneta anopica (Gertsch, 1974) showing karstic terrain B Entrance to Government Canyon Bat Cave, Bexar County, Texas, type locality for Tayshaneta microps (Gertsch, 1974) C General habitat of Tayshaneta sandersi sp. n., District Park Cave, Travis County, Texas, (M. Sanders) D Entrance to Lithic Ridge Cave, Bexar County, Texas, type locality for Tayshaneta whitei sp. n. E Entrance to Three Miles Bat Cave, Williamson County, Texas.

Live images of Tayshaneta species. A Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974), female, Geode Cave, Travis County, Texas B Tayshaneta fawcetti sp. n., male and female in web, Fawcett’s Cave, Val Verde County, Texas C Tayshaneta myopica (Gertsch, 1974), male, Tooth Cave, Travis County, Texas D Egg-sac of Tayshaneta anopica, Corn Cobb’s Cave, Williamson County, Texas.

Three gene concatenated Bayesian phylogeny from Ledford et al. (2011). Highlighted and enlarged area indicates Tayshaneta. Black nodes correspond to a posterior probability >95%. Tayshaneta highlighted in green and enlarged at right. A anopica species-group B myopica species-group C microps species-group D sandersi species-group.

Three gene concatenated maximum likelihood phylogeny from Ledford et al. (2011). Highlighted and enlarged area indicates Tayshaneta. Black nodes correspond to bootstrap support >75%. Tayshaneta highlighted in green and enlarged at right. A anopica species-group B myopica species-group C microps species-group D sandersi species-group.

Three gene concatenated parsimony phylogeny from Ledford et al. (2011). Highlighted and enlarged area indicates Tayshaneta. Black nodes correspond to bootstrap support >75%. Tayshaneta highlighted in green and enlarged at right. A anopica species-group B myopica species-group C microps species-group D sandersi species-group.

Bayesian gene tree, cytochrome oxidase I (COI) from Ledford et al. (2011). Highlighted and enlarged area indicates Tayshaneta. Black nodes correspond to a posterior probability >95%. Tayshaneta highlighted in green and enlarged at right. A anopica species-group B myopica species-group C microps species-group D sandersi species-group.

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