ZooKeys 659: Taxonomic Revision and Cladistic Analysis of Avicularia Lamarck, 1818 (Araneae, Theraphosidae, Aviculariinae) with Description of Three New Aviculariine Genera

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The family Theraphosidae, also known as tarantulas, is the largest family of mygalomorph spiders. The first tarantula genus erected was Avicularia Lamarck, 1818, which, until now, comprised 49 species, with distributional range stretching from Central to South America and Caribbean islands. Its type species has been the first mygalomorph species described. As a result, its taxonomic history is extensive and confusing, reflecting the knowledge and history of arachnology throughout the centuries. Even though the genus comprises a large number of species and has historical importance, it has never been revised.

Herein, the genus is revised, and now comprises 12 species, being 3 new species; all are rediagnosed. Provided are figures of the diagnostic characters, as well as images of live specimens. Information on the type locality; type depository; distribution; and other pertinent taxonomic or biological data; is included. Featured are also keys for identification of all aviculariine genera, including Avicularia and the three newly described genera. Maps with records and information on species habitat are presented. Cladistic analyses have been carried out and the relationships regarding Aviculariinae subfamily are discussed.

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