**Nicodamus**
**Definition:**
Nicodamus is a genus of spiders belonging to the family Nicodamidae, primarily found in Australia. These spiders are known for their distinctive coloration and web-building behaviors.
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## Overview
Nicodamus is a genus of araneomorph spiders native to Australia, characterized by their vibrant colors and relatively small size. Members of this genus typically exhibit bright red and black markings, which serve as a warning to potential predators. They are part of the family Nicodamidae, which includes several genera of spiders with similar morphological traits.
## Habitat and Behavior
Nicodamus spiders are commonly found in forested and woodland areas, where they construct irregular webs close to the ground or within leaf litter. Their hunting strategy involves ambushing prey rather than active pursuit, relying on their webs to capture insects and other small arthropods.
## Taxonomy and Species
The genus Nicodamus was first described in the 19th century and includes several species, with Nicodamus peregrinus being one of the more widely studied. Taxonomic classification is based on morphological features such as eye arrangement, leg spination, and genitalia structure.
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**Meta Description:**
Nicodamus is a genus of brightly colored Australian spiders in the family Nicodamidae, known for their distinctive markings and ambush hunting behavior. They inhabit forested areas and build irregular webs near the ground.