Raising the Dead: Rediscovery and redescription of some lost spider types (Araneae) described by Eugène Simon

Abstract

In this paper, we are redescribing type material from the Zoological Museum in Hamburg that was thought to be lost. These specimens were described in 1902 by Eugène Simon from material collected in Southern Patagonia and Fireland but the species were subsequently considered nomina dubia, or simply not considered at all. The rediscovery of this material leads to the revalidation of two genera and four species. The genera Clitistes and Zilephus are reinstated and the species Clitistesvelutinus Simon, 1902 (Dictynidae), Zilephusgranulosus Simon, 1902, Minyriolusaustralis Simon, 1902 (both Linyphiidae), and Lycosamichaelseni Simon, 1902 (Lycosidae) are redescribed. To avoid further confusion, we designate lectotypes for: Linyphiidae: Minyriolusaustralis Simon, 1902, Gongylidiellumuschuaiense Simon, 1902, Nerienefuegiana Simon, 1902, Clitistesvelutinus Simon, 1902, Zilephusgranulosus Simon, 1902; Amphinectidae: Rubriusradulifer Simon, 1902; Hahniidae: Hahniamichaelseni Simon, 1902, Bigoisantarctica Simon, 1902 and Lycosidae: Lycosamichaelseni Simon, 1902. For all prior nomina dubia and newly designated lectotypes, the type specimens are re-described and properly illustrated for the first time.