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Photo#336077
Is this a trapdoor spider? - Cyclocosmia truncata
Copyright © 2009 suegil

Is this a trapdoor spider? - Cyclocosmia truncata

Nashville, Tennessee, USA
September 21, 2009
This was found when digging a hole for a tree. It was burrowed in the ground. I want to take it to school to show my students but want to make sure it is not poisonous. It is in a sealed plastic container with 2" of dirt and mulch. I plan to let it go after sharing with my class. No one will be allowed to open the container of course. Please advise.
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Contributed by suegil on 22 September, 2009 - 11:17pm
Last updated 18 June, 2014 - 1:34pm

Comments

Moved
Moved from Cyclocosmia.
… marshal hedin, 18 June, 2014 - 1:35pm login or register to post comments

Moved
Moved from Spiders.
… marshal hedin, 17 December, 2009 - 10:28am login or register to post comments

Moved
Moved from ID Request.
… v belov, 10 October, 2009 - 11:08pm login or register to post comments

Yes!
What a great find! This is a trapdoor spider in the genus Cyclocosmia. The hardened, truncated abdomen is unique among spiders. They actually use it as a living plug for their burrow when they feel threatened.
… Eric R. Eaton, 23 September, 2009 - 8:30am login or register to post comments

neat
the spider people will love this..what a great find. im sure one will show up shortly
… Edna Woodward, 22 September, 2009 - 11:20pm login or register to post comments

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