A new semi-cryptic Filistata from caves in the Levant with comments on the limits of Filistata insidiatrix (Forsskål, 1775) (Arachnida: Araneae: Filistatidae)

Researchers have identified a new semi-cryptic species of cave-dwelling spider, Filistata betarif, from the Nahal Me’arot / Wadi el-Mughara Caves in central Israel. This discovery highlights significant genetic divergence—over 15%—between F. betarif and its sibling species, F. insidiatrix, which is widespread across the Mediterranean and Middle East. While morphological differences are minimal, particularly in male pedipalps, DNA barcoding of the COI gene revealed distinct genetic variation. Intriguingly, samples of F. insidiatrix from different regions also exhibit substantial genetic divergence, suggesting hidden cryptic diversity within this species. The study employs light and electron microscopy alongside genetic analysis to distinguish these species and provides a dichotomous key for identifying Filistatidae spiders in Israel and Palestine.

Magalhaes, I. L. F., Aharon, S., Ganem, Z., & Gavish-Regev, E. (2022). A new semi-cryptic Filistata from caves in the Levant with comments on the limits of Filistata insidiatrix (Forsskål, 1775) (Arachnida: Araneae: Filistatidae). European Journal of Taxonomy, 831, 149–174. https://doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2022.831.1875