About Leucauge tessellata (Thorell, 1887)
Leucauge tessellata (Thorell, 1887) can be told apart from related species by several key identifying characteristics. Females of this species are distinguished by dense, moderately long black hairs that cover the distal two-thirds of the tibiae on their fourth pair of legs. This trait easily separates L. tessellata from L. celebesiana and other similar species that may share its geographic range. Males can be identified by their slightly more prominent eyes when compared to related species, along with their large, dark-colored palpal organs that have both inner and outer tarsal apophyses. While L. tessellata matches L. celebesiana in overall size, body form, and coloration, the unique leg hair pattern of females and the distinct palpal structure of males give reliable identifying features.
Leucauge tessellata has a wide distribution across Asia. It has been officially recorded from India, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Taiwan, and Indonesia, specifically the Moluccas. In India, the species is commonly found in Darjeeling District during the monsoon season, where it often occurs alongside the similar species Leucauge celebesiana. Gravely recorded the species from multiple locations across India, including the Cochin hills, Coorg, the Darjeeling hills, and parts of Assam including the Garo Hills.
This species typically lives in forested areas at a range of different elevations. In the Darjeeling region, it has been documented at altitudes between 600 and 5000 feet, which equals roughly 180 to 1500 meters. This indicates that L. tessellata is able to adapt to different elevational zones within its distribution range.
