146 



Observations. This spider makes its web on bushes, like 

 Linyphia, frequently on a bush of dead leaves ; it is horizontal 

 and closely woven, like that of Agelena, and is surmounted by 

 threads crossed in every direction, but there are none under- 

 neath. This species has great affinity to Linyphia. It does 

 not remain in an inverted position under the horizontal web, 

 but abides in the middle like other species of Theridion, and, 

 in the same manner as some species of Epeira, it brings to- 

 gether a few leaves as a shelter. When its web is destroyed 

 it does not abandon its cocoon, which is orbicular and whitish, 

 and is placed in the central part of the web. The mother then 

 grasps it with her cheliceres, and defends her progeny while 

 life endures. She also takes care of her young, making a tent 

 like that of social caterpillars for their shelter, and remaining 

 near them till they can protect themselves. This spider is very 

 sedentary, and little inclined to move ; always of small stature. 



Sabitat. South Carolina ; Alabama. [275.] 



6. Theridion anglicanum. 



PI. 16, fig. 6. 



Description. Body, basal joints of palpi, and base of the 

 thighs, red rufous ; abdomen without projection or spot ; legs 

 X. 2. 4. 3. 



Observations. An individual, supposed to be the male of 

 •this, was found in September, with the legs 4. 2. 1. o, and the 

 abdomen black ; palpi very large and complicated. 



Habitat. Alabama, in June. 



7. Theridion frondeum. 



PI. 1G, fig. 7. 



Description. Bluish white or pale ; cephalothorax with a 

 longitudinal black line ; abdomen with six small spots, black, 

 united with a central brownish line ; pale yellowish beneath ; 

 feet with a few black rings, first pair very long, 1. 4. 2. 8. 



