An of Zelotibia (Araneae, Gnaphosidae), a spider genus with a species swarm in the Albertine Rift

Abstract

The spider genus Zelotibia Russell-Smith & Murphy, 2005 is reviewed. Eight new species, all from forest areas in the Albertine Rik arc described: they are Z.angelica (female), Z. curvifemur (male female), Z. fosseyae (female), Z johntony (female), Z. kanama (female), Z.kibira (female), Z.lejeunei (male female)and Z.subsessa (female). The unknown female of Z.major Russell-Smith & Murphy, 2005 is described. Z.similis Russel-Smith & Murphy, 2005 is synonymized with Z.paucipapillata Russell-Smith & Murphy, 2005. An illustrated key to the species of the genus is provided. The genus now contains 22 species, 19 of which are concentrated in the Albertine Rift, confirming the biodiversity hot-spot status of that area.