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THOMISIM. 
Family THOMISIDiE. 
Countries differing widely in geographical position and temperature are inhabited by the 
spiders included in this comprehensive family, which vary greatly in size, and have the falces 
articulated vertically or on an inclined plane. By the form and arrangement of the legs, 
which present much diversity in their relative proportions, numerous species are enabled to 
move forwards, backwards, or in a lateral direction with facility; the taisi aie usually 
terminated by two claws, and in various instances are supplied with hair-like papillae, distri¬ 
buted upon their inferior surface, or forming a small scopula at their extremity. The abdomen 
is provided with three pairs of spinners, and two branchial opercula are situated near its 
anterior part, on the under side. 
In watching for their prey, which they seize by surprise or pursue with agility, the 
Thomisidce conceal themselves among herbage and leaves, in flowers, in crevices in the bark of 
trees, of rocks, of walls, in crannies of the earth, and under stones. Many species are very 
tardy in their motions, but others run with extraordinary celerity. 
Genus THOMISUS ( Walckenaer ). 
Eyes disposed on the anterior part of the cephalo-thorax in two transverse rows, forming 
either a crescent or a segment of a circle whose convex side is in front; they do not differ 
greatly in size. 
Maxillce inclined towards the lip and pointed at the extremity. 
Lip either triangular or oval, but obtuse at the apex. 
Legs so articulated as to be extended laterally; the first and second pairs are longer and 
more robust than the third and fourth pairs. 
