Migas (spider)

Migas is a genus of mygalomorph spiders in the family Migidae. They are endemic to New Zealand and Australia. These spiders are commonly known as tree trapdoor spiders due to their characteristic habit of constructing trapdoors in the bark of trees or in surrounding vegetation, as well as the ground.

Description

Migas spiders are relatively small to medium in size. They are typically dark in colour, ranging from reddish-brown to black. As mygalomorphs, they possess paraxial chelicerae (fangs that move up and down). They are characterized by their robust build and short legs.

Habitat and Distribution

Migas spiders are found exclusively in New Zealand and Australia. They inhabit a variety of forest and woodland habitats, including rainforests, temperate forests, and eucalyptus woodlands.

Behavior

Migas spiders are ambush predators. They construct silken burrows with hinged trapdoors, often camouflaged with surrounding vegetation. When prey approaches, the spider rapidly opens the trapdoor and seizes the unsuspecting insect or other small invertebrate. They primarily feed on insects and other small arthropods. They are generally nocturnal.

Taxonomy

The genus Migas was first described by L. Koch in 1873. Numerous species have been described within the genus. The taxonomic classification of species within Migas is subject to ongoing research and may be revised in the future. The Migidae family is part of the larger group of mygalomorph spiders, which also includes tarantulas and funnel-web spiders.