Anoplodactylus

Anoplodactylus is a genus of sea spiders, also known as pycnogonids, belonging to the family Pycnogonidae. These fascinating marine arthropods are characterized by their long, spindly legs, which give them a distinctive spider-like appearance despite lacking the usual spider features like spinnerets and venom glands. They are found in marine environments worldwide, inhabiting a diverse range of habitats from intertidal zones to the deep sea.

Lentil Sea Spider – Anoplodactylus lentus

Anoplodactylus evansi

Common Names

Anoplodactylus species do not have widely recognized common names. They are typically referred to by their scientific name.

Characteristics

Members of the genus Anoplodactylus share several key characteristics that distinguish them from other pycnogonids. These include:

  • Long, slender legs: Anoplodactylus species possess four pairs of long, thin legs, giving them a distinctive spider-like appearance. The legs are often much longer than the body, which is small and compact.
  • Proboscis: Like other pycnogonids, Anoplodactylus species have a prominent proboscis, a tubular mouthpart used for sucking fluids from prey, primarily small invertebrates.
  • Lack of Cephalothorax: Unlike many other arthropods, Anoplodactylus lack a distinct cephalothorax (fused head and thorax). Their body is divided into a small cephalothoracic region and a larger abdomen.
  • Small Eyes: Anoplodactylus species have a pair of small, simple eyes located on the dorsal side of the cephalothorax.
  • Ovipositor: Females have a prominent ovipositor, a structure used to attach egg masses to their legs.

Environments

Anoplodactylus species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

  • Intertidal Zones: Some Anoplodactylus species inhabit intertidal zones, where they can be found clinging to rocks, algae, and other substrates.
  • Subtidal Zones: Others live in subtidal zones, inhabiting seabeds and rocky reefs.
  • Deep Sea: Anoplodactylus species have also been found in the deep sea, where they may prey on a variety of small invertebrates.

References

For further information on Anoplodactylus, you can consult the following reliable sources: