The taxonomy and distribution of the spider genus Phryganoporus Simon (Araneae: Amaurobioidea: Desidae)
Abstract
The widely distributed Australian desid spider genus, Phryganoporus Simon, is taxonomically reviewed and validated. Phryganoporus nigrinus is removed from synonymy with P. candidus, while Amaurobius gausapatus, P. g. occidentalis and P. tubicola are synonyms of P. candidus. The species recognised here belong to two clades, [P. candidus (L. Koch), Phryganoporus vandiemeni (Gray) n.comb.] and [P. nigrinus Simon, P. davidleei n.sp., P. melanopygus n.sp.]. These clades are distinguished by the possession of a divided or entire cribellum and genitalic characters. Distribution maps and notes on relationships are given.