What unique method of maternal care solidifies identification within Lycosidae?
Answer
Carrying newly hatched spiderlings on the mother's back
A defining and highly visible characteristic that strongly indicates a spider belongs to the Lycosidae family is their specialized method of maternal care following hatching. Once the eggs hatch, the tiny spiderlings immediately crawl up and position themselves onto the mother's back, or dorsum. The mother then actively carries them around on her back for a period of time. This behavior is a conserved trait within the lineage, distinguishing them from many other hunting spider families, such as Theraphosidae (tarantulas), which may guard egg sacs fiercely but typically do not transport mobile, newly hatched young on their bodies.
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