SPIDER SPECIES BELONGING TO THE GENUS ZELOTES GISTEL, 1848 (ARANEAE: GNAPHOSIDAE) IN UZBEKISTAN

Аннотация

Spiders of the genus Zelotes (Araneae: Gnaphosidae) are predatory arthropods widely distributed in the arid and mountainous regions of Uzbekistan, playing a crucial role in local ecosystems. This paper analyzes the systematics, morphological characteristics, and distribution of Zelotes species in Uzbekistan based on the works of Charitonov (1946) and subsequent research. Six species (Z. aerosus, Z. arnoldii, Z. bucharensis, Z. caucasius, Z. fuscimanus, Z. turanicus) have been recorded in Uzbekistan, primarily inhabiting rocky and sandy areas. The key diagnostic feature for species identification is the sexual dimorphism evident in their genital structures, with males having modified palps and females exhibiting distinct epigynal morphology. Zelotes species are predominantly nocturnal hunters that feed on insects. Key words: Zelotes, Gnaphosidae, Uzbekistan, Spiders, Taxonomy, Central Asia Introduction. The class Araneae (spiders) is one of the most widespread and diverse groups of arthropods in the world. Currently, spiders are classified into 136 families, 4434 genera, and 52,946 described species, which are found in nearly all ecosystems on Earth. As predators, spiders play a crucial ecological role by regulating insect populations in food webs [7]. Among the 136 spider families worldwide, Gnaphosidae is one of the largest in terms of species count. Presently, this family includes 153 genera and 2,480 species. Representatives of this family are distinguished by their unique eye structure and the morphology of their spider chelicerae. Specifically, the arrangement, shape, and reflective properties of their eyes are identifying characteristics of this family [7]. Members of the Gnaphosidae family do not build webs and are active hunters. Most species are nocturnal, although some exhibit diurnal activity. Their eyes possess the ability to see in the dark due to a reflective layer. Three key synapomorphies that characterize this family include: the flat and vague shape of the posterior medial eyes, the flattened and smooth growth of the maxillary parts near the angles, and the robust chitinization of the anterior chelicerae [5,233-160 b]. The taxonomy of the Gnaphosidae family remains unresolved, particularly concerning the boundaries of subfamilies and genera. However, no significant changes have been made in recent years [3,7]. The genus Zelotes Gistel, 1848 was first described by Gistel in 1848 and currently includes over 40 species. Members of this genus are widely distributed across Europe, Asia, and North America and inhabit various environments. Morphologically, these spiders exhibit a range of features, including body size, coloration, eye arrangement, and unique genital structures [5,233-160 b]. Zelotes spiders are typically small, with body lengths ranging from 3 to 8 mm. Their color varies depending on the species, but most species have dark brown or black coloring. The eyes are 88 “TABIIY FANLAR: DOLZARB MUAMMOLAR VA ULARNING YECHIMLARI” typically eight in number, arranged in two rows. The main morphological difference between males and females is seen in their genitalia [5,233-160 b]. Data on Zelotes species in Uzbekistan is limited, with the earliest information provided by Charitonov in 1946. His research described several Zelotes species found in the Central Asia region, including Uzbekistan. Below are the Zelotes species found in Uzbekistan [6,1-35 b]: 1. Zelotes aerosus Charitonov, 1946: This species is found in the dry, rocky areas of Uzbekistan. Males measure 4–5 mm, and females 5–6 mm in body length. The body is dark brown, with lighter markings on the back. 2. Zelotes arnoldii Charitonov, 1946: Found mainly in mountainous regions, males are 3–4 mm long, and females are 4–5 mm. The body is black with long and slender legs. 3. Zelotes bucharensis Charitonov, 1946: Found in the Bukhara region, males measure 4 mm, and females 5 mm. The body is brown, with black markings on the back. 4. Zelotes caucasius (L. Koch, 1866): Distributed in the Caucasus and Central Asia, males measure 5 mm, and females 6 mm. The body is yellow-brown with long and strong legs. 5. Zelotes fuscimanus (Kroneberg, 1875): Found in Karakalpakstan and Surkhandarya regions, males are 3 mm, and females 4 mm long. The body is black with yellowish legs. 6. Zelotes turanicus Charitonov, 1946: Found in the Fergana Valley, males measure 4 mm, and females 5 mm. The body is dark brown, with light markings on the back. Zelotes spiders typically inhabit dry and rocky environments. They are often found under stones, in sandy areas, and in wild vegetation. These spiders lead a predatory lifestyle, although their activity and hunting methods vary across species. Some species are nocturnal, while others are diurnal. Most Zelotes spiders feed on insects, particularly other arthropods. Their hunting method relies on vision and speed, which distinguishes them from other predators [4,1-88 b]. The ecological role of the Zelotes genus is sign