Which specific family now encompasses many species formerly classified within the genus *Cheiracanthium*, such as *C. inclusum*?
Answer
Eutichuridae
Modern molecular phylogenetics has driven substantial taxonomic revision in arachnology, particularly affecting the group containing *Cheiracanthium* species like *C. inclusum*. The evidence provided by genetic markers showed that the evolutionary divergence within this group was sufficiently deep to justify separating them into their own distinct family unit. This separation into Eutichuridae signifies a major realignment, indicating that species grouped under *Cheiracanthium* based on external morphology were not as closely related as previously thought, possessing substantial genetic differences reflecting ancient evolutionary splits.
Related Questions
What family did the yellow sac spider historically belong to before modern molecular investigation prompted reclassification?Which specific family now encompasses many species formerly classified within the genus *Cheiracanthium*, such as *C. inclusum*?Which specific genetic marker is frequently studied to discern evolutionary relationships among closely related yellow sac spider species?What aspect of the yellow sac spider's evolutionary past does genetic inspection reveal that external physical similarities often obscure?How does the yellow sac spider's use of silk for temporary structures contrast with the behavior of orb-weavers?What predatory strategy characterizes the yellow sac spider's lifestyle, contrasting with web-building spiders?What metric is mentioned as a common way to quantify genetic divergence when analyzing the range structure of species like *C. inclusum*?Which two common spiders are specifically named as being difficult for the general public to distinguish without detailed scientific examination?What does the necessity of placing *Cheiracanthium* species into the distinct family Eutichuridae signify about their evolutionary history?What types of long-standing natural barriers are cited as features that shape the modern genetic landscape across North American populations?