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77. Kaua‘i Cave Wolf Spider

Scientific name: Adelocosa anops

Classification: Phylum: Arthropoda. Class: Araneae. Family: Lycosidae.

Origin: Endemic.

Status: Endangered.

Distribution: Kaua‘i.

Map: --


The Kaua‘i Cave Wolf Spider is known only from three populations in caves on the island of Kaua‘i. It was discovered in 1971 and is unique in not having any eyes (it doesn't really need them in caves!). It is a predator and detects its prey by smell (it has specialized hairs that can detect the smell of its victims). It is only found in the dark zone of caves in the Koloa region and requires high humidity to survive.

It is threatened by habitat loss due to development. Efforts are underway to conserve the caves in which it lives..

   Photo © William P. Mull