Matilda species

Fact Box Species: Matilda species (as identified by Michael Rix who suggests this species resembles Matilda australia, which is known to occur in South Queensland) Family: Cyatholipidae Body length: female: about 3 mm male: 2 mm Habitat: On or under leaves, though cyatholipids are said to build a horizontal sheet web Toxicity: Much too small to be capable of causing a human envenomation

View from above

There is considerable variation in the appearance of the species presently accepted as Australian cyatholipids. The main characteristic of all cyatholipids is a broad slit-like tracheal spiracle (the entrance to its 'breathing' network) on the underside of the abdomen in front of the spinnerets. Unfortunately, this can only be seen with the aid of a stereo microscope. The shell-like upper surface of the abdomen with its coarse and relatively upright hairs is diagnostic for Matilda species.

Known Range: Allegedly quite common in both coastal and some inland areas of Australia.

Spider(s) with a very similar appearance: None.