Alopecosa albofasciata

Arachnida Alopecosa albofasciata is a species of wolf spider found in various regions, including the Comunidad Valenciana. This species belongs to the family Lycosidae, which is recognized for its robust and agile hunters that do not construct webs to catch their prey. Instead, they rely on their speed and keen eyesight to hunt and capture insects.
Alopecosa albofasciata can be identified by several distinct characteristics:
- Appearance: These spiders typically have a mottled brown or grey coloration that provides excellent camouflage against leaf litter and soil. They are often characterized by a distinctive white or light-colored fascia or band on their cephalothorax, which contributes to their name "albofasciata" (white-banded).
- Size: The size of these spiders can vary, but they generally have a body length ranging from approximately 8 to 15 millimeters.
- Habitat: They are commonly found in open fields, grasslands, and sometimes in gardens, favouring dry, sandy, or rocky terrains where they can easily hunt for prey.
- Behavior: As with many wolf spiders, A. albofasciata is a solitary and primarily nocturnal hunter. They use their excellent eyesight, supported by their prominent eyes, to locate and ambush prey.
Alopecosa albofasciata plays an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and serving as prey for larger animals. Observers in the Comunidad Valenciana might encounter these fascinating spiders while exploring the natural landscapes of the region.