What does this research mean for the field?

The spider species Cyrtarachne finniganae is present in South Africa, representing the first record of this species outside its previously known range in Mozambique. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.NOVEL_FINDING. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

To document the presence of Cyrtarachne finniganae in South Africa and describe its male morphology.

March 28, 2026Open Access

The first record of Cyrtarachne finniganae Lessert, 1936 from South Africa (Araneae: Araneidae)

Key Points

To document the presence of Cyrtarachne finniganae in South Africa and describe its male morphology.
Identification of Cyrtarachne finniganae specimens from South Africa
Morphological analysis of the male spider
Comparison with existing records from Mozambique
Cyrtarachne finniganae is confirmed as the first record in South Africa
Detailed male morphology is presented
No female specimens have been identified yet

Abstract

The male of Cyrtarachne finniganae Lessert, 1936, was described from Mozambique and is here reported for the first time from South Africa. The female is still unknown. The general morphology of the male is discussed with notes on their distribution and lifestyle.

The first record of Cyrtarachne finniganae Lessert, 1936 from South Africa (Araneae: Araneidae)

Key Points

Abstract

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