Etymology: The genus name is an arbitrary combination of letters. Gender masculine.

Type species: Fuchiba aquilonia sp. n.

Diagnosis: Separated from other trachelines by the robust body, lack of any cusps or spines on legs, widely spaced eyes, high and finely granulate carapace with a shallow depression immediately anterior to the fovea, and by the genitalic structures: males have a short coiled embolus distally on the tegulum and a simple single RTA; females have copulatory openings situated laterally in sclerotised posterior circular depressions.

Description: Small spiders, 2.43–4.70 mm long; carapace yellow-brown, orange, redbrown or dark brown, abdomen pale grey with dark grey dorsal chevron marking (Figs 1–3, 5–14); carapace surface finely granulate (Figs 15, 16); AER procurved, clypeus height larger than AME diameter; AME slightly smaller than ALE, or eyes subequal; AME closer to ALE than to each other; PER strongly recurved (Fig. 16); PME slightly larger than PLE, or eyes subequal; PME closer to each other than to PLE; chilum single, triangular, tapering distally, sometimes with distal notch; cheliceral promargin and retromargin with three teeth each, retromarginal teeth often on single base, otherwise close together (Fig. 17); labium trapezoidal; endites straight laterally with distinct serrula (Fig. 18), anterolateral spur present in male F. montana sp. n. and F. venteri sp. n.; carapace broadly oval, widest at midpoint, eye region wide; carapace with slight depression anterior to fovea, posterior margin slightly concave; pleural bars isolated; sternum shield-shaped; precoxal triangles present; intercoxal sclerites present between coxae I and II, II and III, and III and IV; legs I and II more strongly built than legs III and IV; legs without spines or ventral cusps, metatarsi and tarsi scopulate (Figs 19, 20), with paired tarsal claws and weakly developed claw tufts (Fig. 21); metatarsi III and IV with terminal preening brush; leg formula 1423 in. ♂, 4123 in ♀ ; abdomen oval, tapering posteriorly; dorsal scutum complete in ♂, absent in ♀; dorsal sigilla present; venter with paired tiny sclerites running from epigastric fold to spinnerets; inframamillary sclerite absent; male palp with single subtriangular RTA; tegulum oval, with short distal embolus forming single coil (Figs 22, 23); female epigyne with copulatory openings situated laterally in paired circular ridges; vulva with short entrance ducts, directed anteriorly; ST II large, oval, anteromedially situated, ST I small, laterally situated. Species included: F. aquilonia, F. capensis, F. montana, F. similis, F. tortilis and F. venteri (all new).

Etymology: From Latin aquilonia (northern), reflecting the northern-most occurrence of this species.

Diagnosis: Males can be recognised by the fine embolus, which forms an incomplete coil with tip directed towards the cymbial tip. Females can be recognised by the large oval ST II and other details of the vulva.

Description:

Male.

Measurements: CL 1.22–1.76, CW 1.04–1.45, AL 1.20–1.60, AW 1.17–1.43, TL 2.43–3.50, FL 0.04–0.07, SL 0.61–0.83, SW 0.57–0.78, AME—AME 0.09, AME—ALE 0.05, ALE—ALE 0.40, PME—PME 0.11, PME—PLE 0.17, PLE—PLE 0.68. Length of leg segments: I 0.99+0.52+0.84+0.61+0.45=3.41; II 0.91+0.50+0.69+0.59+0.45=3.14; III 0.72+0.40+0.47+0.57+0.27=2.43; IV 0.89+0.43+0.73+0.87+0.31=3.23.

Carapace, including eye region, bright orange to dark red-brown, slightly darker laterally (Fig. 5); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline (Fig. 24); surface granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, eyes subequal; clypeus height equal to 1.25× AME diameter; AME separated by distance equal to their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 0.5× AME diameter (Fig. 25); PER strongly recurved, median eyes larger than laterals; PME separated by distance equal to their diameter; PME separated from PLE by approx. 1.75× PME diameter. Chelicerae orange-brown to red-brown; anterior surface with scattered short, fine setae; promargin with three widely spaced teeth, median tooth largest, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with three subequal teeth sharing single base. Sternum orange-brown, darker along border; surface smooth, covered in fine setae. Abdomen: with bright orange scutum covering entire dorsum, dorsum with distinct grey chevron markings (Fig. 5); cream laterally and ventrally, with grey mottling; shield-shaped, broadest at half its length, slightly longer than wide; surface covered in short fine setae; two pairs of dorsal sigilla present; venter with small oval sclerites, running in paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV uniform orange; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Palp with small, subtriangular RTA with sharp tip; embolus distal on tegulum, forming single incomplete coil, with tip slanting slightly towards cymbial tip (Figs 26, 27).

Female.

Measurements: CL 1.30–1.83, CW 1.07–1.52, AL 1.43–2.13, AW 1.32–1.85, TL 2.70–4.08, FL 0.07–0.08, SL 0.67–0.89, SW 0.61–0.80, AME—AME 0.09, AME—ALE 0.04, ALE—ALE 0.37, PME—PME 0.11, PME—PLE 0.20, PLE—PLE 0.68. Length of leg segments: I 1.01+0.53+0.78+0.60+0.44=3.36; II 0.93+0.52+0.72+0.57+0.42=3.16; III 0.81+0.43+0.52+0.59+0.28=2.63; IV 1.07+0.50+0.85+0.92+0.35=3.69.

Carapace, including eye region, bright orange to dark red-brown, slightly darker laterally (Figs 1, 6); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline (Fig. 28); surface granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, eyes subequal; clypeus height equal to 1.33× AME diameter; AME separated by distance equal to their diameter; AME separated from ALE by distance approx. 0.5× AME diameter (Fig. 29); PER strongly recurved, eyes subequal; PME separated by distance equal to 1.25× their diameter; PME separated from PLE by distance nearly 2× PME diameter. Chelicerae orange-brown to red-brown; anterior surface with scattered short, fine setae; promargin with three widely spaced, teeth, median tooth largest, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with three subequal teeth sharing single base, Sternum orange-brown, darker along border; surface smooth, covered in fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey dorsally with dark grey chevron markings (Fig. 6); cream laterally and ventrally, with dark grey mottling; oval, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, longer than wide; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae; two pairs of sigilla present; venter with small oval sclerites, running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV uniform orange; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with copulatory openings mediolaterally in circular ridges (Fig. 30); ST II initially narrow following copulatory openings, with large, oval, anteromedial receptacles and small, globose lateral receptacles; ST I small, oval, laterally situated, slightly anterior to copulatory openings (Fig. 31).

Holotype: ♂ SOUTH AFRICA: “R.S.A., Limpopo Province / Soutpansberg Mts / Lajurna Mountain Retreat, Woodland.4 / 23°02.530′S, 29°26.866′ / 6.xii.2004 / M. Mafadza / Sifting leaf litter // Araneae / Corinnidae /Trachelinae / Fuchiba / aquilonia HOLOTYPE 1♂ / NCA 2005/1891 det. C.H. //” (NCA. 2005/1891).

Allotype: ♀ SOUTH AFRICA: “Springbokvlakle / Tuinplaas / Settlers-Roedtan / 23.vii.2002 / M. van Jaarsveld / pitfall traps, grass // Araneae / Corinnidae / Trachelinae / Fuchiba / aquilonia ALLOTYPE 1 ♀ / NCA 2003/291 det. C.H. //” (NCA, 2003/291).

Paratypes: BOTSWANA: 1♂ 1 ♀ Kwando R., 23.iii.1976, F. Wanless & A. Russell-Smith, amongst grass and Phragmites (BMHN). MOZAMBIQUE: 2 imm. 3♂ 2♀ nr Marracuene, Blue Anchor Inn, alt. 50 m, 25°35.124′S:32°39.568′E, 28.xi.2007, C. Haddad & R. Fourie, sifting leaf litter, savannah (NCA, 2008/164); 3♂ 1♀ Nova Choupanga [Chupanga, 18°05′S:35°35′E], viii, P. Lesne (MNHG). SOUTH AFRICA: KwaZulu-Natal: 1♂ Ndumo Game Reserve, W shore of Nyamiti Pan, 26°53.767′S:32°16.557′E, 26.vi.2006, C. Haddad & F. Jordaan, leaf litter, subtropical bush (NCA, 2008/564). Limpopo: 1♀ Soutpansberg Mts, Lajuma Mountain Retreat, 23°02.414′S:29°26.687′E, 6.ii.2008, C. Haddad, base of grass tussocks (NCA, 2008/511); 1♂ 15 km NW of Klaserie, Guernsey Farm, 19–31.xii.1985, S.& J. Peck, Malaise traps, woodland (AMNH, 85/295).

Other material examined: BOTSWANA: 1♀ Maun, Maphaneng Pan, 18.ii.1976, A. Rus sell-Smith, in riverine woodland leaf litter (BMNH); 2 ♀ Maun, Maphaneng Lagoon, 30.i.1977, A. Russell-Smith, riverine woodland leaf litter (BMNH). MOZAMBIQUE: 1 imm, 1♀ Xai-Xai, Montego's Camp, alt. 28 m, 25°03.659′S;33°40.633′E, 2.xii.2007. C. Haddad & R. Lyle, leaf litter, dune forest; (NCA, 2008/180). SOUTH AFRICA: KwaZulu-Natal: 1♀ Mkuzi Game Reserve, Combretum apiculatum/molle woodland, alt. 81 m, 27.66801°S:32.29947°E, 2.ii.2003, Earthwatch volunteers (NCA, 2008/565); 3 imm. 2♂ 1♀ Ndumo Game Reserve, Main Camp, 26°54.581′S:32°18.798′E, 13.vi.2005, C. Haddad, grass litter (NCA, 2008/569); 2♀ Phinda Resource Reserve, alt. 38 m, 27°50′43″S:32°18′49.1″E, 13–15.iv.2001, M. Ramirez (MACN). Limpopo: 2♀ Makalali Game Reserve, 24°09′S:30°42′E, 11.xii.1999, C. Whitmore (DMSA ARA 387); 1 ♀ Nylstroom, Leeudorings, 24.iii.1980, D. Uys, pitfall traps (NCA, 88/343); 1♂ Soutpansberg Mts, Lajuma Mountain Retreat, Island 2, 23°01.921′S:29°26.193′E, 23.xi.2004, M. Mafadza, sifting leaf litter (NCA, 2005/1890); 1♂ Springbokvlakte, Tuinplaas, Settlers-Roedtan, Wildskamp, 7.xi.2001, M. van Jaarsveld, pitfall traps, grass (NCA, 2003/292); 1♀ Springbokvlakte, Settlers, Bekendevlei, 7.v.2002, M. van Jaarsveld, pitfall, traps, grass (NCA, 2003/503). Mpumulanga: 1♂ Kruger National Park, Satara, 24.41°S:31.77°E, 15–18.xii.1985. S. & J. Peck, Malaise trap, streamside thornscrub (AMNH, 85/283); 1♂ same locality, Skukuza, 12–15.xii. 1985, S. & J. Peck, Malaise trap, thornscrub forest (AMNH, 85/277); 1♀ Marble Hall, 25.v.1999, P. Stephen, pitfall traps, citrus orchard (NCA, 99/209); 1♀ same locality, Schoeman Boerdery, 16.xi.1999, P. Stephen, pitfall traps, citrus orchard (NCA, 2000/203).

Distribution: Widely distributed in subtropical southern Africa, particularly in the Savannah and Forest Biomes (Fig. 40).

Biology: This species was primarily collected from leaf litter and by pitfall trapping in savannah and forest habitats.

Etymology: This species is named after the Eastern and Western Cape provinces in South Africa, to which it is endemic.

Diagnosis: Males can be recognised by the fine embolus, which forms an incomplete coil with the tip angling slightly towards the base of the tegulum. Females can be recognised by the small obliquely orientated oval ST II and the copulatory openings located posteriorly in the circular ridges of the epigyne.

Description:

Male.

Measurements: CL 1.60–1.97, CW 1.28–1.60, AL 1.57–1.87, AW 1.30–1.33, TL 3.08–3.70, FL 0.09–0.10, SL 0.82–0.93, SW 0.73–0.86, AME—AME 0.06, AME—ALE 0.05, ALE—ALE 0.36, PME—PME 0.10, PME—PLE 0.20, PLE—PLE 0.69. Length of leg segments: I 1.27+0.64+1.06+0.73+0.55=4.25; II 1.13+0.62+0.93+0.70+0.49=3.87; III 0.88+0.50+0.62+0.69+0.30=2.99; IV 1.17+0.56+1.00+1.07+0.37=4.17.

Carapace, including eye region, pale orange to dark orange-red, slightly darker laterally (Figs 2, 7); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline; surface granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, eyes subequal; clypeus height approx. equal to 1.5× AME diameter; AME separated by 0.75× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 0.5× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median eyes slightly larger than laterals; PME separated by distance equal to their diameter; PME separated from PLE by approx. 1.75× PME diameter. Chelicerae orange to orange-brown; anterior surface with scattered short, fine setae; promargin with three widely spaced teeth, median tooth largest, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with three closely spaced teeth, median tooth largest, proximal and distal teeth subequal. Sternum pale to dark yellow, yellow-brown along border; surface smooth, covered in fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey dorsally with distinct dark grey dorsal chevron markings, branches extending laterally, converging at spinnerets (Fig. 7); venter pale grey; oval, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, longer than wide; dorsal scutum weakly sclerotised, covering posterior 3/4 of dorsum, pale orange; surface covered in short fine setae; two pairs of dorsal sigilla present; venter with small oval sclerites running in single paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV uniform orange; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Palp with small, subtriangular RTA with pointed tip (Fig. 32); embolus distal on tegulum, forming single incomplete coil with tip angling slightly towards base of tegulum (Figs 32, 33).

Female.

Measurements: CL 1.56–2.17, CW 1.33–1.93, AL 2.23–2.53, AW 1.83–2.10, TL 3.72–4.68, FL 0.10–0.13, SL 0.83–1.19, SW 0.77–1.03, AME–AME 0.09, AME–ALE 0.06, ALE–ALE 0.42, PME–PME 0.15, PME–PLE 0.26, PLE–PLE 0.87. Length of leg segments: I 1.37+0.73+1.03+0.83+0.57=4.53; II 1.28+0.69+0.97+0.80+0.53=4.27; III 1.05+0.57+0.72+0.83+0.33=3.50; IV 1.52+0.68+1.18+1.35+0.43=5.16.

Carapace, including eye region, bright yellow-brown to dark orange-brown, slightly darker laterally (Fig. 8); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline; surface granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes slightly larger than medians; clypeus height slightly larger than AME diameter; AME separated by 0.66× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 0.5× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, eyes subequal; PME separated by distance lightly less than their diameter; PME separated from PLE by approx. 1.33× PME diameter. Chelicerae orange-brown to red-brown; anterior surface with scattered short, fine setae; promargin with three widely spaced teeth, median and distal teeth subequal, proximal tooth smaller; retromargin with three subequal teeth sharing single base. Sternum, pale orange, yellow-brown along border; surface smooth, covered in fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey dorsally with distinct dark grey dorsal chevron markings, branches extending laterally, converging at spinnerets (Fig. 8); cream laterally, with broad triangular dark grey marking in anterior half, sometimes fused to anterior dorsal chevron markings; venter pale grey with small pair of triangular dark grey markings anterior to spinnerets; oval, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, slightly longer than wide; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae; dorsum with two pairs of sigilla present; venter with small oval sclerites, running in single paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV uniform orange; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with copulatory openings situated posterolaterally in circular ridges (Fig. 34); ST II initially broad following copulatory openings, narrowing medially before entering small obliquely orientated oval anterior receptacle; ST II connected to small globose ST I via narrow lateral tube (Fig. 35).

Holotype: ♀ SOUTH AFRICA: “R.S.A., Western Cape Prov. / De Hoop Nat. Res. / Lekkerwater Road / 34<>24.002′S, 20°33.15′E /26.ix.2007/C. Haddad / Under Thamnochortis / grasses // Corinnidae / Fuchiba capensis / HOLOTYPE / NCA 2008/584 //” (NCA, 2008/584).

Paratypes: SOUTH AFRICA: Western Cape: 3 ♀ Cape Town, Table Mountain, Orange Kloof Nat. Res., 34°00′S:18°23.7′E, alt. 125 m, 18.xii.1997, B. Fisher, sifted leaf litter, mold, rotten wood, Afromontane forest (CASC); 2♂ Cape Town, Newlands Forest Reserve, SE of Table Mountain, 33°58′S:18°28′E, 4.iv.2001, N. Larsen, K. Muller, S. Prinsloo, D. Ubick & S. Ubick, indigenous forest (CASC); 2♂ De Hoop Nat. Res., Bitou number 2.34°27.194′S:20°24.250′E, 16.vii.2005. C. Haddad & R. Lyle, milkwood leaf litter, with ants (AMNH); 2 ♀ same locality, Cupido's Kraal, 34°25.222'S: 20°37.904′E, 26.ix.2007. C. Haddad & R. Lyle, leaf litter, Eucalyptus forest (NCA, 2007/3877); 1♀ Fisherhaven, nr Hermanus, 34°21.430′S;19°07.557′E, 12.i.2008, C. Haddad, sifting leaf litter (NCA, 2008/455); 3 ♀ Swellendem, Marloth Nat. Res., 33″59.951′S:20°27.419′E, 25.ix.2007, C. Haddad & R. Lyle, leaf litter, fynbos (NCA, 2008/264).

Other material examined; SOUTH AFRICA: Eastern Cape: 1 ♀ Baviaanskloof, 13.i.1979, J. Breytenbach, pitfall traps (NCA, 97/745), Western Cape: 1 ♀ Cape Peninsula, Bergvliet, xii.1899. F. Purcell (SAMC, 6168); 1 ♀ Cape Peninsula, Table Mountain, Platteklip Gorge, vi. 1901, W. Purcell (SAMC, 12106); 1 ♀ Cape Peninsula, sides of Kalk Bay Mountain, ii. 1902, W. Purcell (SAMC, 12315); 4♂ De Hoop Nat. Res., Potberg, 34°22.487′S:20°31.980′E, 6.iv.2004, C. Haddad, sifting leaf litter, Eucalyptus forest (NCA, 2008/571); 5♂ 1 ♀ same locality, 8.iv.2004, C. Haddad, leaf litter and creepers, Eucalyptus forest (NCA, 2008/570); 1 ♀ Heidelberg, Witsand, 34°24′S :20°50′E, 29.x.1987, Entomology Staff, under plants (NMBA, 2380).

Distribution: Largely restricted to Western Cape, with a single record from the western part of Eastern Cape (Fig. 40).

Biology: This species was collected from leaf litter in natural fynbos and Afromontane forest habitats, but at De Hoop Nat. Res. was more common in the leaf litter of exotic Eucalyptus plantations. In the latter habitat it showed further microhabitat selection, being considerably more common in areas with grass and creeper cover than in areas without it.

Etymology: This species is named after the montane habitats where all specimens were collected.

Diagnosis: Males can be recognised by the embolus, which nearly forms a complete coil, with the tip directed at the cymbial tip. Females are recognised by the anterolaterally placed copulatory openings and the large oval ST II.

Description:

Male.

Measurements: CL 2.13, CW 1.85, AL 2.13, AW 1.93, TL 4.28, FL 0.07, SL 0.97, SW 0.93, AME—AME 0.10, AME—ALE 0.06, ALE—ALE 0.42, PME—PME 0.17, PME—PLE 0.29, PLE—PLE 0.88. Length of leg segments: I 1.33+0.70+1.10+0.72+0.55=4.40; II 1.23+0.65+0.93+0.68+0.49=3.98; III 0.87+0.53+0.62+0.70+0.35=3.07; IV 1.17+0.60+0.93+1.03+0.43=4.16.

Carapace, including eye region, red-brown, dark grey laterally (Fig. 9); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline; surface finely granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, eyes subequal; clypeus height, approx. equal to 1.5× AME diameter; AME separated by distance equal to their diameter; AME separated from ALE by distance slightly larger than 0.5× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median, eyes larger than laterals; PME separated by 1.25× their diameter; PME separated from PLE by 2× PME diameter. Chelicerae red-brown, dark grey along inner and outer margins; anterior surface with scattered short, fine setae; promargin with three widely spaced teeth, median tooth largest, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with three closely spaced teeth, proximal and median teeth subequal, distal tooth smallest; endites with anterolateral spur. Sternum orange with grey markings radiating from centre, orange-brown along border; surface smooth, with scattered erect short fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey dorsally with distinct dark grey dorsal chevron markings, branches extending laterally (Fig. 9); venter pale grey with cream mottling; abdomen, shield-shaped, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, slightly longer than wide; dorsal scutum covering entire dorsum, yellow-brown; surface covered in short fine setae; four pairs of dorsal sigilla present, first pair elongate, at 1/3 abdomen length, remaining pairs smaller, near midpoint; venter with small oval sclerites running in single paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV uniform orange-brown; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Palp with small, triangular RTA with sharply pointed tip; embolus distal on tegulum, forming single complete coil with tip directed towards cymbial tip (Figs 36, 37).

Female.

Measurements: CL 1.57–1.75, CW 1.42–1.58, AL 1.63–2.07, AW 1.60–1.70, TL 3.13–3.70, FL 0.06–0.07, SL 0.85–1.00, SW 0.77–0.90, AME—AME 0.07, AME—ALE 0.05, ALE—ALE 0.37, PME—PME 0.16, PME—PLE 0.17, PLE—PLE 0.67. Length of leg segments: I 1.27+0.65+0.97+0.73+0.53=4.15; II 1.13+0.60+0.87+0.70+0.45=3.75; III 0.87+0.53+0.63+0.65+0.33=3.01; IV 1.30+0.62+1.13+1.12+0.43=4.60.

Carapace, including eye region, orange-brown, grey laterally (Fig. 10); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline; surface granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes slightly larger than medians; clypeus height equal to 1.25× AME diameter; AME separated by distance slightly less than their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 0.5× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median eyes slightly larger than laterals; PME separated by 1.25× their diameter; PME separated from PLE by approx. 2× PME diameter. Chelicerae red-brown, grey along inner and outer margins; anterior surface with scattered short, fine setae; promargin with three widely spaced teeth, median and distal teeth subequal, proximal tooth smaller; retromargin with three subequal teeth sharing single base. Sternum orange, orange-brown along border; surface smooth, covered in erect short fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey with indistinct grey chevron markings (Fig. 10); abdomen pale grey laterally, venter pale grey with cream mottling; abdomen oval, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, slightly longer than wide; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae; two pairs of sigilla present; venter with small oval sclerites, running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV uniform orange-brown; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with copulatory openings situated anterolaterally in circular ridges (Fig. 38); entrance ducts directed anteriorly before entering ST I and ST II; ST II initially with small oval anterior receptacle, then looping posteriorly then anteriorly before entering large oval anteromedian receptacles; ST I posteriorly located, small, comma-shaped, linked to fertilisation ducts by short duct (Fig. 39).

Holotype: ♂ “Lesotho, Mohale Lodge/ 29°28′S, 28°03′E /4 March 2003, C. Haddad / On wall in house //” (NMBA, 9593).

Allotype: ♀ “Lesotho, Mohale Dam / Island, 29°25′S, 28°03′E / 6 March 2003, C. Haddad / between fern roots (2108 m) //” (NMBA, 9594).

Paratype: SOUTH AFRICA: Western Cape: 1 ♀ Cederberg Mts, between Clanwilliam and Packhuis, R. Lightfoot, xi. 1899 (SAMC, 5873).

Distribution: Known from the central Maluti Mountains in Lesotho. The outlying record from the Cederberg Mountains in Western Cape suggests that this species may occur along mountain ranges between these two sites, but has not been collected there yet.

Biology: This species was collected from high altitude montane grassland in the Maluti Mts (2100–2300 m). The holotype was collected at night inside a bathroom, and the allotype and an immature were collected from the tangled roots at the base of ferns along a rocky outcrop.

Etymology: From Latin similis (alike), the name refers to the similarities in epigyne structure to F. capensis sp. n.

Diagnosis: This species can be recognised by the fine transverse corrugations anteriorly on the epigyne, and by the larger ST II than F. capensis sp. n. Male unknown.

Description:

Female.

Measurements: CL 1.93, CW 1.63, AL 2.87, AW 2.30, TL 4.70, FL 0.08, SL 0.97, SW 0.90, AME—AME 0.10, AME—ALE 0.05, ALE—ALE 0.41, PME—PME 0.13, PME—PLE 0.19, PLE—PLE 0.71. Length of leg segments: I 1.23+0.65+1.00+0.75+0.60=4.23; II 1.17+0.63+0.83+0.72+0.53=3.88; III 0.97+0.53+0.67+0.73+0.40=3.30; IV 1.27+0.58+1.10+1.20+0.47=4.62.

Carapace, including eye region, deep orange-brown, slightly darker laterally (Fig. 11); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline; surface finely granular, covered in dense, short fine setae, interspersed with long erect setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, eyes subequal; clypeus height equal to 1.25× AME diameter; AME separated by distance slightly less than their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 0.5× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median eyes slightly larger than laterals; PME separated by 1.25× their diameter; PME separated from PLE by 1.75× PME diameter. Chelicerae deep orange-brown; anterior surface with scattered, short, fine setae, interspersed with long, fine erect setae; promargin with three widely spaced teeth, median tooth slightly larger than distal tooth, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with three subequal teeth sharing single base. Sternum bright orange, dark orange-brown along border; surface smooth, covered in short fine setae. Abdomen: cream with distinct grey chevron markings dorsally, posterior branches continuing laterally, converging at spinnerets (Fig. 11); cream laterally and ventrally with faint grey mottling; oval, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, slightly longer than wide; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae, interspersed with long erect setae; dorsum with three pairs of sigilla present, first at 1/3 abdomen length, posterior pairs close together at midpoint; venter with indistinct small oval sclerites, running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV uniform yellow-brown; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae interspersed with long erect setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with fine transverse corrugated ridges anteriorly and circular ridges posteriorly; copulatory openings situated laterally in these depressions; entrance ducts short and broad; ST II bent medially, narrowing before entering round anteromedian receptacles; ST I anterolaterally situated, with fine duct leading to fertilisation ducts posteriorly.

Holotype: ♀ SOUTH AFRICA: “Ngome State Forest/ 27°49′S, 31°26′ / X. 1992 / M. van der Merwe / 2C/ 10 — Pit trap / open forest //” (NCA, 94/436).

Biology: The holotype was collected by pitfall trapping in open forest.

Etymology: From Latin tortilis (twisted), the name refers to the structure of the entrance ducts of the epigyne.

Diagnosis: This species can be recognised by the distinctively coiled entrance ducts and the poorly developed circular ridges in the epigyne. Male unknown.

Description:

Female.

Measurements: CL 1.70, CW 1.50, AL 2.17, AW 1.77, TL 3.68, FL 0.07, SL 0.92, SW 0.82, AME—AME 0.07, AME—ALE 0.04, ALE—ALE 0.42, PME—PME 0.11, PME PLE 0.16, PLE—PLE 0.63. Length of leg segments: I 1.00+0.56+0.77+0.57+0.45=3.35; II 0.93+0.52+0.65+0.55+0.42=3.07; III 0.73+0.47+0.50+0.56+0.28=2.54; IV 1.13+0.50+?+?+?=?.

Carapace, including eye region, deep red-brown, slightly darker laterally (Fig. 12); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline; surface finely granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, eyes subequal; clypeus height equal to AME diameter; AME separated by approx. 0.66× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 0.5× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median eyes slightly larger than laterals; PME separated by distance slightly larger than their diameter; PME separated from PLE by 1.5× PME diameter. Chelicerae bright orange; anterior surface with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three widely spaced teeth, median and distal teeth subequal, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with three subequal teeth sharing single base. Sternum yellow-brown, darker along border, with pale grey mottling; surface smooth, with scattered short fine setae. Abdomen: cream dorsally with distinct grey chevron markings, branches merging laterally (Fig. 12); grey with cream mottling laterally, cream ventrally; oval, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, slightly longer than wide; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae, interspersed with long erect setae; dorsum with three pairs of sigilla present, first at 1/3 abdomen length, posterior pairs smaller, close together at midpoint; venter with indistinct small oval sclerites, running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV pale orange, anterior pairs slightly darker than posterior pairs; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae interspersed with long erect setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with subrectangular ridges posteriorly, slightly curved along margins; copulatory openings situated anterolaterally in these depressions (Fig. 43); entrance ducts coiled twice before entering ST II medially; ST II large, oval, anteriorly situated; ST I small and laterally situated, with fine duct leading to fertilisation ducts posteriorly (Fig. 44).

Holotype: ♀ SOUTH AFRICA: “Farm Ulster, / Near Fort Brown / 1.xii.1993 / M. Burger / on soil, pittrap //” (NCA, 96/68).

Etymology: This species is named for our friend Jonathan Venter, in or near whose residence the entire type series was collected.

Diagnosis: Males can be recognised by the narrowly coiled embolus with its tip near the cymbial tip, and females by the broad copulatory openings in the epigyne.

Description:

Male.

Measurements: CL 1.57–2.10, CW 1.33–1.90, AL 1.53–2.17, AW 1.30–1.63, TL 2.80–4.18, FL 0.09–0.15, SL 0.80–1.10, SW 0.75–0.98, AME—AME 0.08, AME—ALE 0.06, ALE—ALE 0.44, PME—PME 0.13, PME—PLE 0.19, PLE—PLE 0.78. Length of leg segments: I 1.52+0.77+1.28+0.78+0.52=4.87; II 1.32+0.67+1.01+0.78+0.51=4.29; III 0.92+0.50+0.63+0.73+0.33=3.11; IV 1.30+0.61+1.07+1.23+0.42=4.63.

Carapace, including eye region, appearing black in live specimens (Fig. 3), in ethanol dark orange-brown, dark grey-brown laterally (Fig. 13); carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 1/3 its length, sloping gradually to 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline; surface finely granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes slightly larger than medians; clypeus height slightly larger than AME diameter; AME separated by approx. 0.75× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by 0.5× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median eyes larger than laterals; PME separated by distance equal to their diameter; PME separated from PLE by 1.33× PME diameter. Chelicerae dark brown; anterior surface with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three closely spaced teeth, median tooth largest, proximal and distal teeth subequal; retromargin with three closely spaced teeth, proximal and median teeth subequal, distal tooth smallest; endites with anterolateral spur. Sternum dark brown with dark grey markings radiating from centre; surface smooth, with scattered short fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey with distinct dark grey dorsal chevron marking, branches extending laterally (Fig. 13); dark grey laterally and ventrally, venter with pale grey mottling; shield-shaped, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, longer than wide; dorsal scutum covering entire dorsum, yellow-brown; surface covered in short fine setae; three pairs of dorsal sigilla present, first pair elongate, at 1/3 abdomen length, remaining pairs smaller, near midpoint; venter with small oval sclerites running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs appearing black in live specimens (Fig. 3); legs I and II darker yellow-brown than legs III and IV in ethanol; all tibiae and metatarsi darker than other segments; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Palp with small, triangular RTA with bent tip; embolus distal on tegulum, forming broad coil with tip directed towards cymbial tip (Figs 45, 46).

Female.

Measurements: CL 1.44–1.57, CW 1.25–1.36, AL 1.63–1.87, AW 1.18–1.37,TL 3.20–3.60, FL 0.08–0.10, SL 0.87–0.90, SW 0.77–0.80, AME—AME 0.06, AME—ALE 0.05, ALE—ALE 0.31, PME—PME 0.10, PME—PLE 0.13, PLE—PLE 0.54. Length of leg segments: I 1.10+0.58+0.87+0.66+0.50=3.71; II 1.05+0.53+0.93+0.62+0.45=3.58; III 0.80+0.45+0.53+0.63+0.30=2.71; IV 1.20+0.53+0.95+1.07+0.37=4.12.

Carapace, including eye region, yellow-brown (Fig. 14), with grey striae radiating from fovea, fusing laterally; carapace gradually rounded with highest point at 2/3 its length, last quarter with steep decline; surface granular, covered in dense, short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, eyes subequal; clypeus height equal to AME diameter; AME separated by approx. 0.66× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 0.5× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median eyes larger than laterals; PME separated by distance slightly less than their diameter; PME separated from PLE by approx. 1.33× PME diameter. Chelicerae yellow-brown with faint grey mottling; anterior surface with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three widely spaced teeth, median and distal teeth subequal, proximal tooth smaller; retromargin with three teeth sharing single base, distal tooth slightly smaller than proximal and median teeth. Sternum pale yellow-brown with grey mottling and darker grey striae radiating from centre; grey along border; surface smooth, covered in short fine setae. Abdomen: yellow-grey dorsally with dark grey chevron markings (Fig. 14); dark grey laterally and ventrally with yellow-grey mottling; oval, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, longer than wide; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae; dorsum with three pairs of sigilla present, first at 1/3 abdomen length, posterior pairs smaller and less distinct, close together at midpoint; venter with small oval sclerites, running in two paired lines from, epigastric fold to spinnerets. Legs I to IV with similar colouration; femora and patellae pale yellow-grey, darker distally; tibiae and metatarsi darker grey; moderately dense scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in fine, less dense setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with copulatory openings situated laterally in circular ridges (Fig. 47); entrance ducts directed anteriorly before entering ST I and ST II; ST II initially with small oval lateral receptacle, then looping medially then anteriorly before entering oval, anteromedian receptacles; ST I laterally located, small and globose, linked to fertilisation ducts by short duct (Fig. 48).

Holotype: ♂ SOUTH AFRICA: “R.S.A., Western Cape Prov. / Jakobsbaai / 32°57.734′S. 17°53.520′E / 2.x.2007. C. Haddad & R. Lyle / Night collecting //” (NCA, 2008/221).

Paralypes: 7♂ 3 ♀ same locality as holotype, 2.x.2007, C. Haddad & R. Lyle, leaf litter, coastal fynbos (NCA, 2008/223).

Biology: This species was found at the base of dense fynbos shrubs, where it was common together with a new Thysanina species. The holotype male was collected at night inside a house.

Etymology: The name is a combination of Fuchiba, a genus to which these spiders are related, and the Latin botulus (sausage), that refers to the sausage-shaped ST II of the female. Gender masculine.

Type species: Fuchibotulus bicornis sp. n.

Diagnosis: The carapace shape is evenly high and flat dorsally, with a sharp decline in the last fifth, and has a strongly tuberculate surface texture (Figs 50, 51, 53, 54). The abdomen is notched anteriorly and has distinct dorsal sigillae with, several pairs of tiny intermediate sclerites among them (Figs 52, 55). The legs lack spines and ventral cusps, and are weakly scopulate. Males have a needle-like embolus originating prolaterally and curving retrolaterally around the tegulum, accompanied by a narrow membranous conductor (Fig. 56); the palpal tibia has a larger single or bifid distal retrolateral apophysis and a small tooth-like proximal retrolateral dorsal apophysis (Figs 57, 58); females have a narrow median epigynal hood and strongly twisted entrance ducts leading to long, sausage-shaped ST II, with corresponding twisted ducts leading from ST II to the small posterior ST I.

Description: Small spiders, 2.80–3.55 mm long; carapace red, surface strongly granulate; abdomen pale grey with, darker dorsal chevron marking; AER procurved, clypeus height equal to or slightly larger than AME diameter; AME slightly smaller than ALE, or eyes subequal; AME closer to ALE than to each other; PER strongly recurved; PME slightly larger than PLE, or eyes subequal; PME closer to each other than to PLE; chilum single, triangular, tapring distally; cheliceral promargin and retromargin with three teeth each, retromarginal teeth often on single base; labium trapezoidal, posterior width equal to length; endites straight laterally with distinct serrula; carapace broadly oval, widest at midpoint, eye region smoothly connected to thoracic region; carapace with slight depression anterior to fovea, posterior margin slightly concave; pleural bars isolated; sternum shield-shaped; precoxal triangles present; intercoxal sclerites present between coxae I and II, II and III, and III and IV; legs I slightly more strongly built than others in males; legs without spines or ventral cusps, metatarsi and tarsi weakly scopulate, metatarsi III and IV with terminal preening brush; leg formula 1423 ♂, 4123 ♀; abdomen oval, distinctly notched anteriorly, tapering posteriorly; dorsal scutum absent in both sexes; dorsal sigilla present, with several intermediate sclerites between them; venter with paired tiny sclerites running from epigastric fold to spinnerets; small inframamillary sclerite present; male palp with subtriangular RTA, sometimes split distally, and small tooth-like dorsal apophysis; tegulum oval, embolus needle-like, originating prolaterally, directed retrolaterally along distal margin of tegulum, accompanied by narrow membranous conductor; female epigyne with narrow median epigynal hood, copulatory openings medially, entrance ducts strongly twisted, ST II long and sausage-like, directed posteriorly; duct leading from ST II to ST I twisted around entrance ducts; ST I small and oval, posterolaterally situated.

Species included: F. bicornis and F. kigelia (both new).

Etymology: From Latin bicornis (forked), the name refers to the bifid RTA of the male palp.

Diagnosis: This species can be recognised by the bifid RTA of the male palp and embolus shape, and the shorter ST II, which do not project posteriorly as far as the anterior margin of the copulatory openings.

Description:

Male.

Measurements: CL 1.40–1.52, CW 1.20–1.33,AL 1.75–1.87, AW 1.25–1.31, TL 3.12–3.28, FL 0.09–0.10, SL 0.77–0.83, SW 0.67–0.71, AME—AME 0.06, AME—ALE 0.02, ALE—ALE 0.26, PME—PME 0.07, PME—PLE 0.13, PLE—PLE 0.51. Length of leg segments: I 1.13+0.57+0.96+0.73+0.47=3.86; II 0.99+0.53+0.79+0.63+0.39=3.33; III 0.77+0.43+0.55+0.62+0.27=2.64; IV 1.07+0.50+0.84+0.93+0.30=3.64.

Carapace, including eye region, deep orange, slightly darker laterally (Fig. 50); carapace slightly rounded anteriorly with highest point at 1/3 its length, flat dorsally, sloping very slightly to 4/5 its length, last fifth with steep decline (Fig. 59); surface coarsely granulate, covered in very short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 3/4 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes larger than medians; clypeus height slightly larger than AME diameter (Fig. 60); AME separated by distance slightly larger than 0.5× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by slightly less than 0.25× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median eyes slightly larger than laterals; PME separated by 0.66× their diameter; PME separated from PLE by 1.33× PME diameter. Chelicerae red-brown; anterior surface granular, with scattered short fine setae; promargin with three teeth, median and distal teeth subequal, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with three teeth on single base, proximal and median teeth subequal, distal, tooth smallest and blunt. Sternum bright orange, darker along border; surface smooth, with scattered short fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey throughout, with indistinct grey dorsal chevron markings; oval, distinctly notched anteriorly, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, longer than wide (Fig. 50); dorsal scutum absent; surface finely granulate, covered in short stout setae anteriorly, becoming finer towards posterior; two pairs of large elongate dorsal sigilla present, first pair at 1/3 abdomen length, second pair near midpoint, with several pairs of tiny oval intermediary sclerites posterior to each pair (Fig. 52); venter with small oval sclerites running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets; small broad inframamillary sclerite present. Legs I to IV orange-brown, tarsi slightly paler; weakly developed scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in short fine setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Palp with small retrolateral tibial apophysis with split tip, and small secondary tooth-like dorsal apophysis (Figs 57, 61, 62); embolus fine, originating prolaterally on tegulum, curling around tegulum, ending in sharp tip retrolaterally (Fig. 56); conductor narrow and membranous, reaching embolus tip (Fig. 61).

Female.

Measurements: CL 1.33–1.58,CW 1.14–1.30, AL 1.90–2.13, AW 1.54–1.60, TL 3.28–3.55, FL 0.09–0.10, SL 0.76–0.85, SW 0.65–0.73, AME—AME 0.09, AME—ALE 0.02, ALE—ALE 0.26, PME—PME 0.08, PME—PLE 0.11, PLE—PLE 0.48. Length of leg segments: I 0.97+0.57+0.73+0.63+0.42=3.32; II 0.93+0.50+0.67+0.59+0.38=3.07; III 0.80+0.44+0.53+0.63+0.27=2.67; IV 1.09+0.53+0.83+0.96+0.33=3.74.

Carapace, including eye region, deep orange (Fig. 51); carapace slightly rounded anteriorly with highest point at 1/3 its length, flat dorsally, sloping very slightly to 4/5 its length, last fifth with steep decline (Fig. 63); surface coarsely granulate, covered in very short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 3/4 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes much larger than medians; clypeus height equal to 1.33× AME diameter; AME separated by approx. 1.25× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 0.25× AME diameter (Fig. 64); PER strongly recurved, median eyes larger than laterals; PME separated by 0.75× their diameter; PME separated from PLE by approx. 1.25× PME diameter. Chelicerae orange-brown; anterior surface granular, with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three teeth, median tooth largest, proximal tooth smallest; median and distal teeth closest together; retromargin with three subequal teeth sharing single base. Sternum pale orange-brown with faint grey mottling, darker along border; surface smooth, covered in short fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey throughout, with indistinct dorsal chevron markings; oval, distinctly notched, anteriorly, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, longer than wide (Fig. 51); dorsal, scutum absent; surface finely granulate, covered in short stout setae anteriorly, becoming finer towards posterior; dorsum with two pairs of elongate sigilla present, first pair at 1/3 abdomen length, second pair at midpoint, latter pair sometimes fragmented into several smaller sclerites; several pairs of small intermediate sclerites posterior to each pair; venter with small oval sclerites, running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets; small subrectangular inframamillary sclerite present. Legs I to IV brown, slightly paler distally; weakly developed scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in short fine setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with small median hood, copulatory openings situated medially in short curved ridges (Fig. 65); entrance ducts twisted anteriorly before entering ST II, with corresponding twisted ducts leading from long sausage-like ST II to posterior ST I; ST I comprising two small oval lateral receptacles, linked to fertilisation ducts by short narrow duct (Fig. 66).

Holotype: ♂ SOUTH AFRICA: “R.S.A., Western Cape/De Hoop Nat. Reserve/Koppie Alleen /34°28.534′S, 20°30.349′E / C. Haddad, 5.iv.2004 / Under rocks in fynbos / HOLOTYPE ♂ / Fucuhibotulus bicornis / NCA 2008/567 //” (NCA, 2008/567).

Allotype: ♀ “R.S.A., Western Cape Prov. / Fisherhaven, near Hermanus / 34°21.430′S, 19°07.557′E / 30.ix.2007. R. Lyle & C. Haddad / Sifting leaf litter //ALLOTYPE ♀ / Fuchibotulus / bicornis / NCA 2008/218 //” (NCA, 2008/218).

Paratypes: SOUTH AFRICA: Western Cape: 1♀ Bergvliet, ix.1904, W.F. Purcell (SAMC, 14190); 1♂ Cape of Good Hope Nat. Res., Olifantsbos, nr Skaife Centre, alt. 20 m, 34°15.76′S:18°23.13′E, x.1998, H. Robertson, Winkler traps (SAMC, C005504); 1 imm. 1♀ De Hoop Nat. Res., Bitou number 2, 34°27.194′S: 20°24.250′E, 25.ix.2007, C. Haddad & R. Lyle, sifting leaf litter (NCA, 2007/3898); 3 imm. 1♂ 1♀ Fisherhaven, nr Hermanus,34°21.430′S:19°07.557′E, 19.iii.2004, C. Haddad, sifting leaf litter (NCA, 2008/566); 1♀ Hermanus, Vermont, 16.vii.2007, V. Hamilton-Atwell, in litter (NCA, 2008/449).

Distribution: Endemic to Western Cape (Fig. 71).

Biology: This species was primarily collected from leaf litter in fynbos habitats.

Etymology: This species is named after the African sausage tree, Kigelia africana (Lam.) Benth. (Bignoniaceae); the name refers to the elongate shape of the spermathecae. The epithet is a noun in apposition.

Diagnosis: Males can be recognised by the embolus, which projects beyond the retrolateral margin of the cymbium, and the simple subtriangular RTA; females can be recognised by the long ST I, which extend posteriorly beyond the anterior margins of the copulatory openings.

Description:

Male.

Measurements: CL 1.40–1.67, CW 1.12–1.40, AL 1.45–1.80, AW 1.17–1.35, TL 2.80–3.20, FL 0.10–0.12, SL 0.71–0.87, SW 0.63–0.73, AME—AME 0.06, AME—ALE 0.02, ALE—ALE 0.29, PME—PME 0.10, PME—PLE 0.13, PLE—PLE 0.54. Length of leg segments: I 1.21+0.63+1.03+0.81+0.47=4.15; II 1.02+0.53+0.77+0.68+0.43=3.43; III 0.80+0.46+0.53+0.64+0.29=2.72; IV 1.07+0.53+0.89+0.99+0.33=3.81.

Carapace, including eye region, deep orange, slightly darker near margins (Fig. 53); carapace slightly rounded anteriorly with highest point at 1/3 its length, flat dorsally, sloping very slightly to 4/5 its length, last fifth with steep decline; surface coarsely granular, covered in very short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 3/4 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, eyes subequal; clypeus height equal to 1.25× AME diameter; AME separated by slightly less than 0.66× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by slightly less than 0.25× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, median eyes slightly larger than laterals; PME separated by distance equal to their diameter; PME separated from PLE by 1.5× PME diameter. Chelicerae orange; anterior surface granular, with scattered long and short fine setae; promargin with three closely spaced teeth, median tooth largest, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with three teeth on single base, proximal tooth large, median and distal teeth flat, only projecting slightly. Sternum bright orange, darker along border; surface smooth, with scattered short fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey throughout, without dorsal chevron markings; oval, distinctly notched anteriorly, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, longer than wide (Fig. 53); dorsal scutum absent; surface finely granulate, covered in short stout setae anteriorly, becoming finer towards posterior; two pairs of large elongate dorsal sigilla present, first pair at 1/3 abdomen length, second pair near midpoint; each sigillum split transversely in two in some specimens; several pairs of tiny oval or elongate intermediary sclerites posterior to each pair; venter with small oval sclerites running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets; small broad inframamillary sclerite present. Legs I to IV deep yellow-brown, femora slightly darker distally, tarsi slightly paler; weakly developed scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in short fine setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Male palp with small triangular retrolateral tibial apophysis with sharp tip, and small secondary tooth-like dorsal apophysis (Figs 58, 67, 68); embolus fine, originating prolaterally on tegulum, curling around tegulum, ending in sharp tip projecting beyond retrolateral margin of cymbium; conductor narrow and membranous, reaching embolus tip (Fig. 67).

Female.

Measurements: CL 1.14–1.36, CW 0.92–1.17, AL 1.55–1.84, AW 1.14–1.50, TL 2.75–3.40, FL 0.07–0.08, SL 0.60–0.73, SW 0.53–0.63, AME—AME 0.05, AME—ALE 0.01, ALE—ALE 0.25, PME—PME 0.09, PME—PLE 0.11, PLE—PLE 0.44. Length of leg segments: I 0.90+0.47+0.67+0.53+0.41=2.98; II 0.82+0.43+0.57+0.50+0.35=2.67; III 0.66+0.37+0.47+0.52+0.27=2.29; IV 0.95+0.47+0.73+0.83+0.32=3.30.

Carapace, including eye region, deep orange, orange-brown laterally (Fig. 54); carapace slightly rounded anteriorly with highest point at 1/3 its length, flat dorsally, sloping very slightly to 4/5 its length, last fifth with steep decline; surface coarsely granular, covered in very short fine setae; fovea short, distinct, slightly thickened, at 3/4 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes slightly larger than medians; clypeus height equal to AME diameter; AME separated by 0.5× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 1/8× AME diameter; PER strongly recurved, eyes subequal; PME separated by distance approx. equal to their diameter; PME separated from PLE by approx. 1.33× PME diameter. Chelicerae orange; anterior surface granular, with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three teeth, median tooth largest, proximal tooth smallest; median and distal teeth closest together; retromargin with three subequal teeth sharing single base. Sternum orange, dark orange-brown along border; surface smooth, covered in short fine setae. Abdomen: pale grey throughout, with very faint grey indistinct dorsal chevron markings; oval, distinctly notched anteriorly, tapering posteriorly, broadest at half its length, longer than wide (Fig. 54); dorsal scutum absent; surface finely granulate, covered in short stout setae anteriorly, becoming finer towards posterior; one pair of elongate sigilla present at 1/3 abdomen length, with several pairs of small intermediate sclerites near midpoint of abdomen (Fig. 55); venter with small oval sclerites, running in two paired lines from epigastric fold to spinnerets; small inframammilary sclerite present. Legs I to IV orange-brown, femora slightly darker distally; weakly developed scopulae on metatarsi and tarsi, remaining leg segments covered in short fine setae; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with small median hood, copulatory openings situated medially in short curved ridges (Fig. 69); entrance ducts twisting anteriorly before entering elongate sausage-like ST II, with corresponding twisted ducts leading from ST II to posterior ST I; ST II posterior margin extending beyond anterior margin of copulatory openings (Fig. 69); ST II comprising two small oval posterolateral receptacles, linked to fertilisation ducts by short narrow duct (Fig. 70).

Holotype: ♂ “AMNH / REPUBLIC SOUTH AFRICA: E. / Transvaal, 15 km NW Klaserie, / Guernsey Farm, 19–31.xii. / 1985, S&J Peck, woodland / malaise-FITs, #85–295 / HOLOTYPE ♂ / Fuchibotulus kigelia//” (AMNH).

Allotype: ♀ “R.S.A., KwaZulu-Natal / Ndumo Game Res., Main Camp / 26°54.6′S, 32°18.8′E / 13.vi.2005 /C. Haddad/ grass litter// ALLOTYPE ♀ / Fuchibotulus kigelia / NCA 2006/1339 //” (NCA, 2006/1339).

Paratypes: MOZAMBIQUE: 1 ♀ nr Marracuene, Blue Anchor Inn, 25°35.124′S:32°39.568′E, 28.xi.2007. C. Haddad & R. Fourie, sifting leaf litter, savannah (NCA, 2008/163), SOUTH AFRICA: Gauteng: 1♂ Pretoria, Wapadrand, ii.1988, R. Oberprieler (NCA, 98/959). North West: 1♂ Magaliesberg, Meyer's Farm, 25°44′S:27°17′E, 17.v.1998, A. Leroy (NCA, 2008/568).

Distribution: Widely distributed in savannah and grassland habitats in the northern parts of South Africa and southern Mozambique (Fig. 71).

Biology: Collected from leaf litter.

Etymology: From the grass family Poaceae, with which these spiders are closely associated, and from the genus Trachelas, to which they are related. Gender masculine.

Type species: Poachelas striatus sp. n.

Diagnosis: This genus can be easily recognised from other trachelines by the pale elongate body, usually with a median abdominal stripe (Figs 72–75), lack of a dorsal scutum in both sexes, darkened anterior tibiae and metatarsi, and ventral leg cusps in known males that also have paired ventral leg spines on the anterior legs. Females lack cusps and may or may not have strong paired ventral leg spines on the anterior tibiae and metatarsi.

Description: Small spiders, 2.63–4.23 mm long; carapace cream or yellow, abdomen with grey median stripe; AER procurved, clypeus height 0.5–0.66× AME diameter; AME slightly smaller than ALE; AME separated by 0.33–0.5× their diameter, AME nearly touching ALE; PER strongly recurved; eyes variable in size, usually subequal; posterior eye interdistances subequal, at least 0.75× PME diameter; chilum single, triangular, weakly sclerotised; cheliceral promargin with three teeth, retromargin with two or three teeth, often on single base; labium trapezoidal; endites straight laterally with distinct serrula (Fig. 76); carapace oval, elongate, widest at midpoint; carapace with slight depression at 0.66× its length, fovea indistinct, posterior margin straight; pleural bars isolated, weakly sclerotised; sternum oval-elongate; precoxal triangles present; intercoxal sclerites present between coxae I and II, reduced between coxae II and III and III and IV; legs I slightly more strongly built than other pairs; patellae I with plv spines (Fig. 77); anterior legs of males strongly spined, with paired ventral spines on tibiae and metatarsi (Fig. 78), and elongate cusps on tibiae, metatarsi and tarsi I, and metatarsi II (Figs 78–80); anterior legs of females strongly spined in P. striatus (Figs 81, 82), arrangement as for males, replaced by erect setae in P. montanus; cusps absent; tarsi with paired claws and dense claw tufts (Fig. 83); metatarsi III and IV with terminal preening comb (Fig. 84); leg formula 1423 ♂, 4123 ♀ ; abdomen elongate oval, twice as long as wide; dorsal scutum absent in both sexes; venter without sclerites; male palp with long, narrow, curved RTA (Figs 85, 86); tegulum round, embolus originating distally on tegulum, curling around margins, curving along retrolateral margin of cymbium towards cymbial tip (Fig. 85); female epigyne variable, with copulatory openings situated medially in posterior half of epigyne (Fig. 87); ST II large and situated anteriorly; ST I small, posterolaterally situated.

Species included: P. montanus, P. solitarius and P. striatus (all new).

Diagnosis: Members of this species group can be recognised by the leg morphology. Males have paired ventral leg spines on the anterior tibiae and metatarsi, as well as elongate ventral leg cusps on the anterior tibiae, metatarsi and tarsi; females lack cusps and have strong paired leg spines on the anterior tibiae and metatarsi.

Etymology: From Latin striatus (striate), the name refers to the distinctive median stripe running along the abdomen.

Diagnosis: P. striatus sp. n. can be recognised from the only other species in this group by the genitalic morphology, with an embolus coiled around the tegulum and ending near the cymbial tip.

Description:

Male.

Measurements: CL 1.30–1.47, CW 0.83–0.98, AL 1.46–1.80, AW 0.75–0.87, TL 2.63–3.25, FL 0.08–0.09, SL 0.87–0.95, SW 0.53–0.61, AME—AME 0.03, AME—ALE 0.015, ALE—ALE 0.19, PME—PME 0.09, PME—PLE 0.07, PLE—PLE 0.37. Length of leg segments: I 1.18+0.57+1.07+0.83+0.48=4.13; II 0.87+0.47+0.68+0.59+0.40=3.01; III 0.60+0.33+0.43+0.47+0.27=2.10; IV 1.13+0.50+1.10+0.92+0.40=4.05.

Carapace bright yellow, paler posteriorly, with pale grey stripe from between PME to midpoint, forming small rectangular grey marking medially (Fig. 72); carapace flattened with highest point at 1/3 carapace length, sloping gently to posterior, last fifth declining more steeply (Fig. 88); surface smooth with scattered short fine setae; fovea indistinct, lying in shallow median depression, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes larger than medians; clypeus height equal to approx. 0.66× AME diameter; AME separated by approx. 1/3 their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 1/8× AME diameter (Fig. 89); PER recurved, median eyes slightly larger than laterals; PME separated by distance slightly larger than their diameter; PME separated from PLE by distance slightly smaller than PME diameter. Chelicerae pale yellow; anterior surface slightly granulate, with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three small teeth, distal tooth largest, proximal and median teeth subequal; retromargin with two closely spaced teeth, distal tooth slightly larger. Sternum cream with faint grey mottling, slightly darker along border; surface smooth, with scattered short fine setae. Abdomen: cream with pale grey mottling, with broad grey median stripe dorsally running along abdomen, expanding laterally above spinnerets (Fig. 72); elongate, twice as long as wide, broadest at half its length; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae; two pairs of indistinct oval sigilla present, first at 1/4 abdomen length, second pair anterior to midpoint; venter without sclerites. Legs I to IV with pale yellow femora; patellae, tibiae and tarsi I dark yellow-brown, metatarsi I dark brown; legs II to IV pale yellow-brown; legs covered in short fine setae with scattered long erect setae, particularly on femora, patellae and tibiae; metatarsi III and IV with terminal preening comb; tarsi I and IV with rows of short erect plv and rlv setae; leg spination: femora: I pl 2; patellae: I plv 2; tibiae: I plv 5–7 rlv 6 spines, plv 1–2 cusps, II rlv 0–2 spines; metatarsi: I plv 3–5 rlv 3–4 spines, plv 4–10 rlv 0–2 cusps, II rlv 4 spines, plv 1–4 cusps; tarsi: I plv 1–2 cusps. Male palp with fine curved retrolateral tibial apophysis (Figs 85, 86,90, 91); tegulum round, embolus fine, originating distally, curving around tegular margins before looping retrolaterally, curving along distal retrolateral margin to tip of cymbium (Figs 90, 91).

Female.

Measurement: CL 1.26–1.43, CW 0.91–1.00, AL 2.00–2.28, AW 1.07–1.20, TL 3.10–3.58, FL 0.13–0.17, SL 0.87–0.94, SW 0.57–0.61, AME—AME 0.03, AME—ALE 0.01, ALE—ALE 0.17, PME—PME 0.07, PME—PLE 0.08, PLE—PLE 0.36. Length of leg segments: I 1.07+0.61+0.98+0.82+0.45=3.93; II 0.87+0.45+0.76+0.57+0.43=3.08; III 0.67+0.37+0.43+0.45+0.28=2.20; IV 1.20+0.57+1.20+1.00+0.43=4.40.

Carapace pale yellow, sometimes with pale grey mottling, with pale grey stripe from PER to midpoint, forming rectangular grey marking medially (Fig. 73); eye region at AER black; carapace flattened with highest point at 1/3 carapace length, sloping gently to posterior, last fifth declining more steeply (Fig. 92); surface smooth with dense short fine setae; fovea indistinct, lying in shallow median depression, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral, eyes larger than medians; clypeus height, slightly larger than 0.5× AME diameter; AME separated by 0.33× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 1/8× AME diameter (Fig. 93); PER slightly recurved, eyes subequal; PME separated by distance slightly less than their diameter; PME separated from PLE by distance equal to PME diameter. Chelicerae pale yellow; anterior surface smooth, with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three small teeth, median and distal teeth largest, subequal in size; retromargin with two closely situated teeth, distal tooth largest. Sternum cream, dark yellow along border; surface smooth, covered in long fine setae. Abdomen: cream, with broad grey median stripe dorsally running along abdomen, expanding laterally in posterior third (Fig. 73); elongate, twice as long as wide, broadest at half its length; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short and long fine setae; two pairs of indistinct oval sigilla present, first pair at 1/4 abdomen length, second pair at anterior to midpoint of abdomen; venter without sclerites. Legs I to IV with pale yellow femora; patellae, tibiae, metatarsi and tarsi I and I dark yellow-brown, legs II to IV pale yellow-brown; legs covered in short fine setae with scattered long erect setae, particularly on femora and patellae; metatarsi III and IV with terminal preening comb; tarsi I and IV with rows of short erect plv and rlv setae; leg spination: femora: I pl 3–5 rlv 7; patellae: I plv 2–4 rlv 1; tibiae: I plv 6–7 rlv 6–8, II rlv 4–5; metatarsi: I plv 4–7 rlv 4–5, II rlv 5–7; palp spineless, with several long fine erect setae on femora and patellae. Epigyne with copulatory openings situated anterolaterally in posterior lip-shaped ridge (Figs 87, 94); entrance ducts coiling before entering large round anteromedian ST I, with broad median ducts leading from ST I to posterolateral oval ST II (Fig. 95).

Holotype: ♂ SOUTH AFRICA: “R.S.A., Free Stale Province / Bloemfontein District / Glen Agricultural College / 28°54′S, 26°21′E / 16.iv.2008, J. van Niekerk / Base of grass tussocks // Holotype ♂ / Poachelas siriatus / NMBA 11582//” (NMBA, 11582).

Allotype: ♀ “NMBA 10907 / South Africa, FS / Bloemfontein, Botanical Gardens / 2908S/2610E, / L. Lotz, Oct 2006 / pit-trap 2, in grassland near office // Allotype ♀ / Poachelas striatus / NMBA 10907 //” (NMBA, 10907).

Paratypes: SOUTH AFRICA: Free State: 3 ♀ Bloemfontein, National Botanical Gardens, 29°02′44″S: 26°12′34″E, 13.xi.2007, C. Haddad. base of grass tussocks (NCA, 2007/3804); 1 imm, 1 ♂ same locality, 24.iv.2008, C. Haddad, base of grass tussocks (NCA, 2008/582); 2 imm, 5♂ 14 ♂ same locality, 28.v.2008. C. Haddad, base of grass tussocks (NCA, 2008/589); 1♂ 8 ♀ Erfenis Dam Nat. Res., Weedy grassland, 28°29.722′S:26°48.439′E, 28.viii.2007, C. Haddad, searching, base of grass tussocks (NCA, 2007/3142); 1 imm. 1♂ Glen Agricultural College, 28°54′S:26°21′E. 24.iv.2008. J. van Niekerk, base of grass tussocks (NMBA, 11583).

Biology: This species was commonly found at the base of grass tussocks, and occasionally caught by sweep-netting. The adults from the National Botanical Gardens were collected during spring. By late summer (March 2008) no adults were collected, although more than 25 immature specimens were observed. In the following month males started to appear. By the end of May nearly no immatures were collected, only adults. This suggests a life cycle where adults breed in spring and early summer, immatures develop through summer, maturing in early autumn, with the adults overwintering and breeding the following spring. One adult female maintained in the laboratory produced an egg sac of 6.0 mm diameter, consistent in structure with other corinnids (foundation disc of silk on which eggs are laid, covered by a disc of papery silk). Eight cream-coloured oval eggs were produced, each being approx. 0.60×0.68 mm.

Distribution: Known only from the Grassland Biome in Free State (Fig. 100).

Etymology: From Latin solitarius (solitary), as this species is known from a single male only.

Diagnosis: This species can be recognised from P. striatus sp. n. by the male embolus, which does not reach the cymbial tip, and by more ventrally-placed RTA. Female unknown.

Remark: Most of the paired ventral leg spines on the anterior legs are missing from the holotype, but the spine bases give an accurate idea of the spine arrangement.

Description:

Male.

Measurements: CL 1.78, CW 1.22, AL 2.55, AW 1.13, TL 4.23, FL 0.08, SL 1.16, SW 0.77, AME—AME 0.03, AME—ALE 0.015, ALE—ALE 0.22, PME—PME 0.10, PME—PLE 0.10, PLE—PLE 0.44. Length of leg segments: 11.73+0.83+1.57+1.03+0.53=5.69; II 1.28+0.64+1.05+0.79+0.51=4.27; III 0.84+0.47+0.54+0.57+0.37=2.79; IV 1.57+0.66+1.50+1.18+0.47=5.38.

Carapace bright yellow, paler posteriorly, with dark grey stripe from between PME to midpoint, forming small rectangular grey marking medially (Fig. 74); carapace flattened with highest point at posterior eye row, sloping gently to posterior, last fifth declining more steeply; surface smooth with scattered short and long fine setae; fovea indistinct, lying in shallow median depression, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes larger than medians; clypeus height equal to approx. 0.5× AME diameter; AME separated by 0.33× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 1/8× AME diameter; PER recurved, median eyes slightly larger than laterals; PME separated by distance equal to their diameter; PME separated from PLE by distance equal to PME diameter. Chelicerae bright yellow; anterior surface smooth, with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three small teeth, distal tooth largest, proximal tooth smallest; retromargin with two subequal teeth sharing single broad base. Sternum pale yellow, slightly darker along border; surface smooth, with scattered short fine setae. Abdomen: cream, with very fine black median stripe dorsally running along abdomen, expanding laterally above spinnerets (Fig. 74); elongate, more than twice as long as wide, broadest at half its length; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae; two pairs of indistinct oval sigilla present, either side of midpoint of abdomen; venter without sclerites. Legs I to IV yellow; tibiae and metatarsi I, II and IV with dark grey distal bands; legs covered in short fine setae; metatarsi III and IV with terminal preening comb; leg spination: femora: I pl 4; patellae: I plv 3 rlv 1; tibiae: I plv 9 rlv 9 spines, plv 3–4 rlv 1 cusps, II rlv 6 spines; metatarsi: I plv 6 rlv 4 spines, plv 3 cusps, II rlv 4 spines, plv 1 cusp; tarsi: I plv 2 rlv 1–2 cusps. Male palp with fine curved retrolateral tibial apophysis (Figs 96, 97); tegulum round, embolus fine, originating distally, curving around tegular margins before looping retrolaterally, curving along distal retrolateral margin of cymbium (Fig. 97).

Holotype: ♂ “Zimbabwe 2028D1 / Maleme Rest Camp /J. Minshull 4.ii.1987 / NMZ/A5522 //HOLOTYPE ♂ / poachelas solitarius //” (NMZA, A5522).

Biology: Unknown, but presumably associated with grass.

Diagnosis: Members of this species group have the same general morphology as the striatus group, but the abdominal markings are less distinct, and they lack the strong anterior leg spines of the latter species group.

Etymology: The species name reflects the montane grassland habitats, where it was collected.

Diagnosis: This species can be recognised by its small size, absence of leg spines, and the morphology of the female genitalia. Male unknown.

Description:

Female.

Measurements: CL 0.97–0.99, CW 0.71–0.73, AL 1.60–1.80, AW 0.90–0.97, TL 2.63–2.90, FL 0.06–0.07, SL 0.63–0.65, SW 0.46–0.48, AME—AME 0.03, AME—ALE 0.015, ALE—ALE 0.14, PME—PME 0.04, PME—PLE 0.04, PLE—PLE 0.23. Length of leg segments: I 0.67+0.36+0.49+0.40+0.29=2.21; II 0.53+0.32+0.38+0.33+0.27=1.83; III 0.38+0.23+0.25+0.32+0.17=1.35; IV 0.65+0.30+0.57+0.53+0.23=2.28.

Carapace, including eye region, bright yellow with pale grey stripe from PER to midpoint, forming rectangular grey marking medially (Fig. 75); carapace flattened with highest point at posterior eye row, sloping gently to posterior; surface smooth with scattered short and long fine setae; fovea indistinct, lying in shallow median depression, at 2/3 carapace length. Eyes surrounded by black rings; AER procurved, lateral eyes larger than medians; clypeus height equal to 0.5× AME diameter; AME separated by 0.25× their diameter; AME separated from ALE by approx. 1/8× AME diameter; PER slightly recurved, lateral eyes slightly larger than medians; PME separated by approx. 0.75× their diameter; PME separated from PLE by approx. 0.75× PME diameter. Chelicerae orange; anterior surface smooth, with scattered short and long fine setae; promargin with three small teeth, median tooth largest, proximal and distal teeth subequal; retromargin with three teeth sharing single base, proximal tooth largest, distal tooth smallest. Sternum yellow with grey mottling, dark yellow-brown along border; surface smooth, covered in fine setae. Abdomen cream, with very faint grey median, stripe dorsally running along abdomen, expanding laterally in posterior third (Fig. 75); abdomen elongate, nearly twice as long as wide, broadest at half its length; dorsal scutum absent; surface covered in short fine setae; two pairs of oval sigilla present, first pair indistinct, at 1/4 abdomen length, second pair distinct, close to midpoint of abdomen; venter without sclerites. Legs I to IV yellow; tibiae, metatarsi and tarsi I and II yellow-brown, with long dense erect setae ventrally; metatarsi and tarsi with weak scopulae, remaining leg segments covered in short fine setae; metatarsi III and IV with terminal preening comb; leg spines and cusps absent. Epigyne with copulatory openings situated posteriorly in short semi-circular ridges; entrance ducts entering oval anteromedian ST I, with broad ducts leading from ST I to lateral oval ST II.

Holotype: ♀ SOUTH AFRICA: “R.S.A., Free State Prov. / Harrismith district / Platberg Nat. Res. / 28°16.839′S, 29°12.062′E / 14.xii.2005 / C. Haddad / Under rocks, montane grassland // HOLOTYPE ♀ / Poachelas montanus / NCA 2008/579 //” (NCA, 2008/579).

Paratype: ♀ same data as holotype (NCA, 2008/580).

A series of subadult specimens was collected at the base of grass tussocks at the Lajuma Mountain Retreat in the Soutpansberg Mts, Limpopo Province, South Africa (Fig. 100). Attempts to rear these specimens to adulthood failed. This species seems to belong to the montanus species group, as both subadult males and females lack the ventral leg spines typical of the striatus group. The formal description of this species is postponed until adults are collected.