taxonID	type	description	language	source
039D5914FF96FFAEFF4DFE39FA44F9B5.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. The genus is characterised by the presence of a single row of ventral spines situated in front of the spinnerets, the palpal tibia with one or three apophyses, the conductor consisting of several parts, the embolic base connected to a tegulum via a thin membrane, the epigyne with a deep anterior median incision and the short and diverging copulatory ducts (Dankittipakul et al. 2012).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF96FFAEFF4DFE39FA44F9B5.taxon	type_taxon	Type species. Mallinella maculata Strand, 1906, by monotypy.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF96FFAEFF4DFE39FA44F9B5.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Africa, Asia, Central and South America (World Spider Catalog 2024)	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF96FFACFF4DF934FC84F947.taxon	description	Figs 1, 6 A, 6 F, 7 A, 7 F, 8 A, 9 A – B, 10 C – E	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF96FFACFF4DF934FC84F947.taxon	materials_examined	Type material. Holotype ♂: SRI LANKA: Sabaragamuwa Province: Rathnapura District, Gilimale Forest Reserve, 06 º 45 ’ 51 ’’ N 80 º 25 ’ 40 ’’ E, 126 m, 25 March 2024, leg. SP. Benjamin et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 234). Paratype: 1 ♀, with same data as for holotype (IFS _ ZOD _ 235).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF96FFACFF4DF934FC84F947.taxon	etymology	Etymology. This new species is named after the first author’s grandmother, Dhanahami. Used as a noun in apposition.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF96FFACFF4DF934FC84F947.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Mallinella dhanahami sp. nov. share features such as inwardly projecting digitiform lateral borders of the epigyne, round proximal tubercle on anterior femora and pale oblong spots on the dorsum of opisthosoma with the members of the annulipes-group. Within the annulipes-group, males of M. dhanahami sp. nov. are most similar to the males of M. calilungae as both share bifurcated embolus and elongated TA but can be separated from it by beak shaped VTA (triangular shaped in M. calilungae), and digitiform RTA (broad triangular ridge in M. calilungae) (cf. Dankittipakul et al. 2012: figs. 757 – 759 and Figs 1 F – H, 8 A). Females are most similar to the females of M. annulipes as both share V-shaped epigynal plate and the digitiform lateral border of the epigyne but can be separated from it by the anterior median depression (absent in M. annulipes) and the highly sclerotized epigynal furrow of the epigyne (weakly sclerotized in M. annulipes). (cf. Dankittipakul et al. 2012: figs. 733 – 734 and Figs. 1 C, 9 A).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF96FFACFF4DF934FC84F947.taxon	description	Description. Male in alcohol (holotype; Fig. 1 A). Body length 4.92; carapace 2.70 long, 1.93 wide; opisthosoma 2.22 long, 1.67 wide. Habitus as in Figs 1 A, 10 C – E. Carapace ovoid, smooth and shiny; fovea straight, longitudinal, red-brown. Clypeus brown, 0.45 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.16, ALE 0.09, PME 0.12, PLE 0.09; AME – AME 0.11, AME – PME 0.17, AME – ALE 0.10, ALE – ALE 0.60, PME – PME 0.15, PME – PLE 0.20, PLE – PLE 0.77, ALE – PLE 0.08. MOA 0.45 long, front width 0.39, back width 0.43. Chilum unipartite, trapezoid. Chelicerae 0.92 long, light brown, without teeth. Endites yellow. Labium triangular, yellow-brown, 0.19 long, 0.38 wide. Sternum lateral margins with small semi-circular pits in front of each coxa of third and fourth pair of legs, furnished heavily with sparse black setae, 1.17 long, 0.95 wide (Fig. 6 F). Legs yellowish, round proximal tubercle on anterior femora (Fig. 6 A). Measurements of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 3.45 (1.15 + 0.59 + 0.62 + 1.09), I 8.50 (2.10 + 0.70 + 1.90 + 1.95 + 1.85), II 7.40 (1.85 + 0.65 + 1.55 + 1.75 + 1.60), III 8.20 (2.05 + 0.70 + 1.60 + 2.15 + 1.70), IV 10.15 (2.30 + 0.60 + 2.25 + 3.25 + 1.75). Leg formula: 4132. Opisthosoma pear-shaped with lanceolate dorsal scutum (Fig. 1 A). Pattern on dorsum of opisthosoma with five pairs of spots: first pair is represented by minute pale spots; second pair is represented by oval spots obliquely arranged; third pair by transverse pale spots; fourth pair by paired spots medially connected; fifth pairs of the pattern on opisthosoma represented by minute pale spots distinctly smaller than anterior second and third pairs (Fig. 1 A). Posterior ventral spines elongated, gradually tapering with smoothly rounded apices. Spinnerets pale yellow (Fig. 1 E). Palp (Figs 1 F – H, 8 A). RTA digitiform, tapered towards blunt apex; VTA beak shaped (Figs 1 G, 8 A); Retrolateral cymbial fold broad, slightly more than half the length of cymbium (Fig. 1 G). TA hook-shaped; apico-prolateral process of TA rod-shaped, directed posteromesad (Figs 1 G, 8 A). TS almost indistinct. TT rounded protrusion. Embolic base aligned in longitudinal direction, with narrow membranous area. Embolus medially bifurcated; mesal ramus slender, elongated, lateral ramus broad, blade-like (Figs 1 G, 8 A). Conductor an elevated mound with a groove to accommodate embolus (Figs 1 G, 8 A). Female in alcohol (paratype; Fig. 1 B). Body length 5.46; carapace 2.70 long, 1.96 wide; opisthosoma 2.76 long, 2.11 wide. Habitus and details as in male except for the following (Fig. 1 B). Clypeus 0.58 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.16, ALE 0.10, PME 0.13, PLE 0.11; AME – AME 0.09, AME – PME 0.14, AME – ALE 0.13, ALE – ALE 0.62, PME – PME 0.16, PME – PLE 0.24, PLE – PLE 0.80, ALE – PLE 0.08. MOA 0.46 long, front width 0.40, back width 0.42. Chelicerae 0.94 long, light brown. Labium 0.29 long, 0.45 wide. Sternum; 1.20 long, 1.06 wide. Measurements of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 2.72 (0.91 + 0.47 + 0.49 + 0.85), I 7.40 (1.90 + 0.60 + 1.75 + 1.40 + 1.75), II 6.50 (1.60 + 0.55 + 1.55 + 1.30 + 1.50), III 7.35 (1.85 + 0.60 + 1.70 + 1.65 + 1.55), IV 9.05 (2.10 + 0.60 + 1.85 + 2.80 + 1.70). Leg formula: 4132. Opisthosoma oval-shaped; dorsum covered with dense black hairs; without dorsal scutum. Genitalia (Figs 1 C – D, 7 A, 7 F, 9 A – B). Epigynal plate narrowed, highly sclerotized, V-shaped, with anterior median depression. Lateral borders narrow, digitiform, terminally blunt. Epigynal furrow sclerotized. Spermathecae short, truncated. Insemination ducts shorter than the length of spermathecae. Fertilization ducts as in Fig. 7 F.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF96FFACFF4DF934FC84F947.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Known only from the type locality (Fig. 12).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF94FFA9FF4DF8E7FCB7FE2F.taxon	description	Figs 2, 6 B, 6 G, 7 B, 7 G, 8 B, 9 C – D	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF94FFA9FF4DF8E7FCB7FE2F.taxon	materials_examined	Type material. Holotype ♂: SRI LANKA: Central Province: Kandy District, Corbett’s Gap, Knuckles Range, 07 ° 21 ’ 40 ’’ N 80 ° 50 ’ 00 ’’ E, 1360 m, 2 February 2010, leg. S. Batuwita et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 36). Paratypes: 2 ♂ 1 ♀, with same data as for holotype (IFS _ ZOD _ 34, 35, 37). Other material examined. SRI LANKA: Central province: Matale District, NIFS arboretum, 07 ° 51 ’ 34 ’’ N 80 ° 40 ’ 28 ’’ E, 180 m, 1 ♂, 7 July 2013, leg. SP. Benjamin et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 25); 3 ♂, 24 August 2010, NP. Athukorala et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 41, 210, 211); 3 ♀, 20 January 2016, leg. NP. Athukorala et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 132, 133, 134); 1 ♂ and 1 ♀, 16 February 2019, leg. NP. Athukorala et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 182, 183); 1 ♂, 28 May 2015, leg. NP. Athukorala et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 209). North Western Province: Puttalam District, Wanatha Villu, 08 ° 10 ’ 15 ’’ N 79 ° 52 ’ 30 ’’ E, 30 m, 6 ♀, 24 May 2010, leg. NP. Athukorala et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 23, 53, 142, 143, 144, 145). North Central Province: Anuradhapura District, Padaviya, 08 ° 48 ’ 00 ’’ N 80 ° 45 ’ 00 ’’ E, 56 m, 3 ♀, 10 January 2012, leg. NP. Athukorala et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 158,159,160). Eastern Province: Trincomalee District, Arisimale Beach Side, 08 ° 56 ’ 12 ’’ N 81 ° 00 ’ 23 ’’ E, 9 m, 2 ♀ and 2 ♂, 26 September 2023, leg. NG. Dayananda et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 205, 206, 207, 208). Nothern Province: Jaffna District, Mandaitivu, 09 ° 37 ’ 30 ’’ N 79 ° 59 ’ 50 ’’ E, 4 m, 1 ♀ and 1 ♂, 20 – 22 September 2016, leg. SP. Benjamin et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 180, 181); 4 ♂, 03 October 2023, NG. Dayananda et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 224, 225, 226, 227); Chettypulam Road side, 09 ° 37 ’ 48 ’’ N 79 ° 54 ’ 45 ’’ E, 6 m, 1 ♀ and 3 ♂, 04 October 2023, leg. NG. Dayananda et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 220,221,222,223); Allaipiddy, 09 ° 37 ’ 12 ’’ N 79 ° 58 ’ 41 ’’ E, 6 m, 3 ♀ and 3 ♂, 04 October 2023, leg. NG. Dayananda et al. (IFS ZOD _ 214, 215, 219, 216, 217, 218).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF94FFA9FF4DF8E7FCB7FE2F.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The new species is named after the chocolate ‘ MilkyWay’. Used as a noun in apposition.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF94FFA9FF4DF8E7FCB7FE2F.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Mallinella milkyway sp. nov. s hare features such as U-shaped epigynal plate, tear-shaped PVS, and tremendously lengthened insemination ducts with the members of the redimita-group. Within the redimita-group, males of M. milkyway sp. nov. are most similar to the males of M. redimita as both share flange-like RTA, bifurcated embolus, sharp apical ridge directed posteromesad and a triangular apico-retrolateral fold with a blunt apex but can be separated from it by the rami of the embolus with blunt apices (sharply pointed in M. redimita) and lanceolate dorsal scutum (cf. Dankittipakul et al. 2012: figs. 706 – 707 and Figs. 2 A, 2 F – H, 8 B). Females are also most similar to the females of M. redimata as both share U-shaped epigynal plate, and elongated insemination ducts but can be separated from it by globular spermathecae (truncated spermathecae in M. redimita) (cf. Dankittipakul et al. 2012: figs. 694 – 699, 701 - 703 and Figs. 2 C – D, 7 B – G, 9 C – D).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF94FFA9FF4DF8E7FCB7FE2F.taxon	description	Description. Male in alcohol (holotype; Fig. 2 A). Body length 3.96; carapace 2.25 long, 1.76 wide; opisthosoma 1.71 long, 1.36 wide. Habitus as in Figs 2 A, 11 A – B. Carapace ovoid, granulate, brown, slightly darker anteriorly; fovea red-brown (Fig. 2 A). Clypeus light brown, 0.42 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.13, ALE 0.12, PME 0.12, PLE 0.12; AME – AME 0.08, AME – PME 0.15, AME – ALE 0.12, ALE – ALE 0.55, PME – PME 0.12, PME – PLE 0.20, PLE – PLE 0.68, ALE – PLE 0.06. MOA 0.41 long, front width 0.34, back width 0.38. Chilum unipartite, trapezoid. Chelicerae 0.78 long, brown, without teeth. Endites yellow-brown. Labium triangular, yellow-brown, 0.23 long, 0.38 wide. Sternum brown, with sparse black setae, 1.01 long, 0.93 wide. Lateral margins of sternum with small semi-circular pits in front of each coxa of third and fourth pair of legs (Fig. 6 G). Legs generally yellowish, except for brown femora, proximal tubercle on anterior femora (Fig. 6 B). Measurements of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 2.78 (0.97 + 0.45 + 0.47 + 0.89) I 6.70 (1.60 + 0.50 + 1.75 + 1.50 + 1.35), II 5.90 (1.45 + 0.45 + 1.30 + 1.40 + 1.30), III 6.25 (1.40 + 0.35 + 1.25 + 1.35 + 1.90), IV 8.17 (1.95 + 0.50 + 1.85 + 2.15 + 1.72). Leg formula: 4132. Opisthosoma oval, covered with black short setae, with lanceolate dorsal scutum. Dorsum of opisthosoma dark sepia. Pattern on dorsum of opisthosoma represented by a paired of large anterior patches followed by irregular arrangement of pale spots. Posterior ventral spines short, tear-shaped (Fig. 2 E). Spinnerets yellow-brown (Fig. 2 E). Palp (Figs 2 F – H, 8 B). RTA flange-like in retrolateral view, broad at base, gradually tapered towards sharply pointed apex (Figs 2 G, 8 B). VTA subtriangular blunt apex. Tegular spine minute (Fig. 8 B). Cymbial fold shallow, less than half the length of cymbium (Fig. 2 G). TA with sharply pointed apical ridge directed posteromesad with triangular apicoprotrolateral process having blunt apex, directed mesad (Fig. 8 B). Embolic base aligned in retrolateral direction, anterior membranous part broad, triangular (Figs 2 G, 8 B). Embolus blade-like, broadest medially, subterminally divided, both rami slender, with blunt tips (Fig. 8 B). Conductor beak-shaped, sharply pointed apex. Female (paratype; Fig. 2 B). Body length 4.98; carapace 2.24 long, 1.54 wide; opisthosoma 2.74 long, 1.91 wide. Habitus and details as in male except for the following (Figs 2 B, 10 A – B). Carapace with smooth tegument. Clypeus 0.50 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.10, ALE 0.09, PME 0.09, PLE 0.09; AME – AME 0.08, AME – PME 0.14, AME – ALE 0.12, ALE – ALE 0.41, PME – PME 0.12, PME – PLE 0.16, PLE – PLE 0.58, ALE – PLE 0.05. MOA 0.36 long, front width 0.27, back width 0.31. Chelicerae 0.75 long. Labium 0.25 long, 0.39 wide. Sternum with shallow semi-circular pits, 0.94 long, 0.89 wide Legs with proximal tubercle on anterior femora. Measurements of palp and legs: palp (right) 1.94 (0.64 + 0.36 + 0.39 + 0.55), I 4.85 (1.25 + 0.50 + 1.10 + 1.15 + 0.85), II 4.75 (1.15 + 0.45 + 1.05 + 1.15 + 0.95), III 5.00 (1.25 + 0.45 + 1.00 + 1.35 + 0.95), IV 6.25 (1.50 + 0.55 + 1.80 + 1.25 + 1.15). Leg formula: 4132. Dorsum of opisthosoma without scutum (Fig. 2 B). Genitalia (Figs 2 C – D, 7 B, 7 G, 9 C – D). Epigynal plate; narrow, U-shaped, prominent anterior median depression, weakly sclerotized. Lateral borders retracted (Figs 2 C, 7 B, 9 C). Insemination ducts elongated, slightly curving inwardly (Figs 7 G, 9 D). Spermathecae globular in shape, slightly widened distally. Insemination ducts short and straight extend posteriorly from the copulatory openings. Fertilization ducts as in Fig. 7 G. Variation. Male (n = 22): body length 3.90 – 4.02. Female (n = 21): body length 5.00 – 5.19.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF94FFA9FF4DF8E7FCB7FE2F.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Sri Lanka (Matale District, Jaffna District, Anuradhapura District, Trincomalee District, Puttalam District, Kandy District) (Fig. 12). Possibly also present in India.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF91FFA7FF4DFDC1FC73FD7F.taxon	description	Figs 3, 6 C, 6 H, 7 C, 7 H, 8 C, 9 E – F	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF91FFA7FF4DFDC1FC73FD7F.taxon	materials_examined	Type material. Holotype ♂: SRI LANKA: Southern Province: Galle District, Kottawa Forest, 06 ° 05 ’ 40 ’’ N 80 ° 19 ’ 25 ’’ E, 152 m, 23 August 2023, leg. NG. Dayananda et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 231). Paratype: 1 ♀, leg. SP. Benjamin et al. with same data as for holotype (IFS _ ZOD _ 103). Other material examined. SRI LANKA: Southern province: Galle District, Hiyare Forest, 06 ° 03 ’ 32 ’’ N 80 ° 19 ’ 15 ’’ E, 121 m, 2 ♀, 23 August 2023, leg. NG. Dayananda et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 232, 233).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF91FFA7FF4DFDC1FC73FD7F.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The new species is named after the chocolate ‘ Mon Cheri’. Used as a noun in apposition.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF91FFA7FF4DFDC1FC73FD7F.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Mallinella moncheri sp. nov. s hare features such as triangular lateral border of the epigyne, V-shaped epigynal plate with the members of the annulipes-group. Within the annulipes-group, males of M. moncheri sp. nov. are most similar to the males of M. dhanahami sp. nov. as both share digitiform RTA, and black colour bands on either side of the carapace of both male and female but can be separated from it by slender, unbranched embolus (bifurcated embolus in M. dhanahami sp. nov.) and diagonally aligned emobolic base (aligned longitudinally in M. dhanahami sp. nov.) (Figs 1 G, 8 A; 3 G, 8 C). Females are also most similar to the females of M. dhanahami sp. nov. as both share V-shaped epigynal plate but can be separated from it by deeper anterior depression of the epigyne and triangular lateral borders of the epigyne (digitiform lateral borders in M. dhanahami sp. nov.). (Figs. 1 C, 7 A, 7 F; 3 C, 7 C, 7 H).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF91FFA7FF4DFDC1FC73FD7F.taxon	description	Description. Male in alcohol (holotype; Fig. 3 A )). Body length 3.57; carapace 2.16 long, 1.49 wide; opisthosoma 1.41 long, 1.08 wide. Habitus as in Fig. 5 A. Carapace ovoid, smooth and shiny, orange-brown, with two longitudinal lateral dark bands (Fig. 3 A); fovea red-brown. Clypeus light brown, 0.44 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.17, ALE 0.10, PME 0.11, PLE 0.11; AME – AME 0.04, AME – PME 0.09, AME – ALE 0.08, ALE – ALE 0.45, PME – PME 0.08, PME – PLE 0.20, PLE – PLE 0.60, ALE – PLE 0.03. MOA 0.39 long, front width 0.30, back width 0.35. Chilum unipartite, trapezoid. Chelicerae 0.79 long, light brown, without teeth. Endites yellow. Labium triangular, yellow-brown, 0.20 long, 0.35 wide. Sternum yellow, furnished with sparse black setae, 0.89 long, 0.74 wide. Lateral margins of sternum with small semi-circular pits in front of each coxa of third and fourth pair of legs. Legs yellow-brown, except pale yellowish coxae, proximal tubercle on anterior femora. Measurement of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 1.93 (0.70 + 0.33 + 0.35 + 0.55), I 4.62 (1. 25 + 0.52 + 1.20 + 0.75 + 0.90), II 4.35 (1.20 + 0.50 + 0.80 + 0.95 + 0.90), III 4.60 (1.20 + 0.50 + 0.90 + 1.15 + 0.85), IV 6.21 (1.55 + 0.51 + 1.35 + 1.85 + 0.95). Leg formula: 4132. Opisthosoma oval, covered with black short setae, Dorsum of opisthosoma dark sepia, with lanceolate scutum. Pattern on dorsum of opisthosoma with anterior paired patch followed by medially connected large transverse patches (Fig. 3 A). Posterior ventral spines cylindrical, with blunt apices (Fig. 3 E). Spinnerets pale yellow (Fig. 3 E). Palp (Figs 3 F – H, 8 C). VTA moderately developed, subtriangular, with curved apex (Fig. 8 C). RTA digitiform in retrolateral view, broad at base, gradually tapered towards acute apex (Fig. 3 H). Cymbial fold deep, more than half the length of the cymbium. Apicoprolateral process of TA with, sharply pointed, elongated, slender flange, directed posteromesad (Figs 3 G, 8 C). Tegulum with large, well developed tegular tubercle (Fig. 8 C). Basoprolateral fold of TA, subtriangular (Fig. 8 C). Embolic base aligned diagonally; membranous area of embolic base narrow. Embolus slender, unbranched, elongated, with blunt apex (Figs 3 G, 8 C). Tegular spine absent. Conductor triangular, apex blunt. Female in alcohol (paratype; Fig. 3 B). Body length 4.51; carapace 2.41 long, 1.70 wide; opisthosoma 2.10 long, 1.62 wide. Habitus and details as in male except for the following (Fig. 5 B). Clypeus 0.46 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.15, ALE 0.10, PME 0.11, PLE 0.10; AME – AME 0.07, AME – PME 0.14, AME – ALE 0.08, ALE – ALE 0.53, PME – PME 0.14, PME – PLE 0.18, PLE – PLE 0.68, ALE – PLE 0.06. MOA 0.42 long, front width 0.32, back width 0.35. Chelicerae 0.81 long, Labium 0.30 long, 0.44 wide. Sternum: 1.00 long, 0.96 wide. Measurements of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 1.68 (0.63 + 0.27 + 0.29 + 0.49), I 6.00 (1.50 + 0.50 + 1.45 + 1.30 + 1.25), II 5.75 (1.35 + 0.45 + 1.30 + 1.45 + 1.20), III 5.80 (1.35 + 0.50 + 1.20 + 1.55 + 1.20), IV 7.85 (1.75 + 0.50 + 1.85 + 2.25 + 1.50). Dorsum of pear-shaped opisthosoma, covered with dense black setae. Dorsal scutum on opisthosoma absent (Fig. 3 B). Pattern on dorsum of opisthosoma with a pair of anterior small oblique patches, followed by numerous pale spots (Fig. 3 B). Genitalia (Figs 3 C – D, 7 C, 7 H, 9 E – F). Epigynal plate, V-shaped, with deep anterior median invagination. Lateral borders triangular, terminally blunt. Epigynal furrow highly sclerotized (Figs 3 C, 7 C, 9 E). Insemination ducts longer than spermathecal length. Spermathecae globular in shape. Fertilization ducts as in Fig. 7 H.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF91FFA7FF4DFDC1FC73FD7F.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Known only from the collecting localities (Fig. 12).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9FFFA5FF4DFD3FFC84FCEF.taxon	description	Figs 4, 6 D, 6 I, 7 D, 7 I, 8 D, 9 G – H	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9FFFA5FF4DFD3FFC84FCEF.taxon	materials_examined	Type material. Holotype ♂: SRI LANKA: Uva Province: Badulla District, Namunukula Peak, along Passara — Ella Road, 06 º 52 ’ N, 81 º 07 ’ E, 2000 m, 23 January 2014, leg. SP. Benjamin et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 137). Paratype: 1 ♀, with same data as for holotype (IFS _ ZOD _ 138).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9FFFA5FF4DFD3FFC84FCEF.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The new species is named after the chocolate ‘ Oreo’. Used as a noun in apposition.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9FFFA5FF4DFD3FFC84FCEF.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Mallinella oreo sp. nov. s hares the feature of inwardly projected digitiform lateral borders of the epigyne with the members of the annulipes-group. Within the annulipes-group, males of M. oreo sp. nov. are most similar to the males of M. moncheri sp. nov. as both share digitiform RTA, less prominent cymbial fold which is less than half the length of the cymbium, and diagonally aligned embolic base but can be separated from it by the triangular hump like VTA (moderately developed with curved apex in M. moncheri sp. nov.), and subterminally bifurcated embolus (slender unbranched in M. moncheri sp. nov.) (Figs 3 G, 8 C; 4 G, 8 D) Females are also most similar to the females of M. moncheri sp. nov. as both share terminally blunt digitiform lateral borders of the epigyne but can be separated from it by semi-circular shaped epigynal plate (V-shaped in M. moncheri sp. nov.) and small anterior median depression of the epigyne (deep median depression in M. moncheri sp. nov.) (Figs 3 C, 9 E; 4 C, 9 G).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9FFFA5FF4DFD3FFC84FCEF.taxon	description	Description. Male in alcohol (holotype; Fig. 4 A). Body length 4.41; carapace 2.42 long, 1.83 wide; opisthosoma 1.99 long, 1.45 wide. Habitus as in Fig. 4 A. Carapace ovoid, smooth, shiny, dark brown anteriorly; fovea red brown. Clypeus brown, 0.38 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.16, ALE 0.11, PME 0.13, PLE 0.11; AME – AME 0.07, AME – PME 0.13, AME – ALE 0.08, ALE – ALE 0.50, PME – PME 0.10, PME – PLE 0.18, PLE – PLE 0.68, ALE – PLE 0.04. MOA 0.42 long, front width 0.36, back width 0.39. Chilum unipartite, trapezoid. Chelicerae 0.86 long, light brown, without teeth. Endites yellow. Labium triangular, yellow-brown, 0.20 long, 0.35 wide. Sternum yellow, furnished with sparse black setae, 1.05 long, 0.96 wide. Lateral margins of sternum with small semi-circular pits in front of each coxa of third and fourth pair of legs. Legs yellowish, with proximal tubercle on anterior femora. Measurements of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 2.20 (0.88 + 0.40 + 0.42 + 0.50) I 5.51 (1. 51 + 0.55 + 1.15 + 1.35 + 0.95), II 5.30 (1.50 + 0.55 + 1.05 + 1.25 + 0.95), III 5.39 (1.35 + 0.54 + 1.10 + 1.50 + 0.90), IV 6.95 (1.60 + 0.50 + 1.65 + 2.10 + 1.10). Leg formula: 4132. Opisthosoma oval; dorsum dark sepia (Fig. 4 A). Pattern on dorsum of opisthosoma provided with large pale patches, first and second pairs of patches fused to form reniform patches, followed by third and fourth pairs of oblong patches, fifth pair of patches connected vertically with fourth pair. Dorsum of opisthosoma with lanceolate scutum. Posterior ventral spines moderate in length, gradually tapering, with blunt apices (Fig. 4 E). Spinnerets yellow (Fig. 4 E). Palp (Figs 4 F – H, 8 D). VTA triangular hump (Fig. 4 G); RTA digitiform, tapered towards blunt apex (Figs 4 G – H, 8 D), Cymbial fold less prominent, less than half the length of cymbium (Fig. 4 G). TA elongated, Apicoprolateral fold of TA triangular, apicoprolateral process of TA triangular, broad at base, with blunt apex, directed posteromesad (Fig. 8 D). Apicoretrolateral fold of TA triangular, with blunt apex. Mesoprolateral fold of TA, short, triangular (Fig. 8 D). Baso-prolateral fold of TA large, directed posteriad. Tegular spine large, prolaterally directed (Fig. 8 D). Embolic base aligned diagonally, directed posteriorly, with broad membranous area (Fig. 4 G). Embolus branched sub-terminally, with long lateral ramus. Both rami with blunt apices. (Fig. 4 G, 8 D). Embolus elongated with blunt apex. Female in alcohol (paratype; Fig. 4 B). Body length 5.22; carapace 2.46 long, 1.67 wide; opisthosoma 2.76 long, 2.03 wide. Habitus and details as in male except for the following (Fig. 4 B). Clypeus 0.34 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.11, ALE 0.09, PME 0.11, PLE 0.09; AME – AME 0.06, AME – PME 0.15, AME – ALE 0.11, ALE – ALE 0.50, PME – PME 0.10, PME – PLE 0.19, PLE – PLE 0.64, ALE – PLE 0.06. MOA 0.39 long, front width 0.28, back width 0.32. Chelicerae 0.83 long Labium 0.30 long, 0.44 wide. Sternum yellow with shallow semi-circular pits, 1.06 long, 1.04 wide. Legs with proximal tubercle on anterior femora (Fig. 6 D). Measurements of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 1.98 (0.77 + 0.37 + 0.38 + 0.46), I 5.00 (1.40 + 0.45 + 1.20 + 1.00 + 0.95), II 4.85 (1.30 + 0.45 + 1.25 + 0.95 + 0.90), III 4.95 (1.35 + 0.45 + 1.15 + 1.10 + 0.90), IV 6.75 (1.65 + 0.50 + 1.50 + 2.00 + 1.10). Leg formula: 4132. Genitalia (Figs 4 C – D, 7 D, 7 I, 9 G – H). Epigynal plate, semi-circular, small median depression. Lateral borders digitiform, terminally blunt (Fig. 9 G). Both epigynal plate and furrow highly sclerotized (Figs 4 C, 9 G). Insemination ducts long, thick, sclerotized, distally diverging (Figs 4 D, 7 D, 7 I, 9 H.). Insemination ducts longer than spermathecal length. Spermathecae round, fertilization ducts as in Fig. I.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9FFFA5FF4DFD3FFC84FCEF.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Known only from the type locality (Fig. 12).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9DFFA3FF4DFC8FFC8DFD7F.taxon	description	Figs 5, 6 E, 6 J, 7 E, 7 J, 8 E, 9 I – J	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9DFFA3FF4DFC8FFC8DFD7F.taxon	materials_examined	Type material. Holotype ♂: SRI LANKA: Central Province: Kandy District, Loolecondera Estate, 07 ° 08 ‘ 45 ‘‘ N 80 ° 41 ‘ 53 ‘‘ E, 1480 m, 13 July 2010, leg. SP. Benjamin et al. (IFS _ ZOD _ 43). Paratypes: 1 ♀, with same data as for holotype (IFS _ ZOD _ 230).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9DFFA3FF4DFC8FFC8DFD7F.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The new species is named after the chocolate ‘ Truffles’. Used as a noun in apposition.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9DFFA3FF4DFC8FFC8DFD7F.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Mallinella truffles sp. nov. share features such as unbranched embolus, simple rostrated TA, longitudinal furrow of the epigyne with the members of the tuberculata group. Within tuberculata group, males of M. truffles sp. nov. are most similar to the males of M. brachiata as both share digitiform RTA, cymbial fold which is less than half the length of the cymbium, triangular apico prolateral process but can be separated from it by long narrow unbranched embolus. (cf. Dankittipakul et al. 2012: figs 147 – 151 and Figs 5 F – H, 8 E). Females are also most similar to the females of M. tuberculata as both share sub-rectangular epigynal plate, and deep anterior median depression, but can be separated from it by globular spermathecae (cf. Dankittipakul et al. 2012: figs 152 – 155 and Figs. 5 C – D, 7 E, 7 J, 9 I – 9 J).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9DFFA3FF4DFC8FFC8DFD7F.taxon	description	Description. Male in alcohol (holotype; Fig. 5 A). Body length 4.96; carapace 2.66 long, 2.20 wide; opisthosoma 2.30 long, 1.60 wide. Habitus as in Fig. 7 A. Carapace ovoid, smooth, red-brown; fovea red-brown. Clypeus brown, 0.57 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.16, ALE 0.10, PME 0.12, PLE 0.10; AME – AME 0.10, AME – PME 0.13, AME – ALE 0.12, ALE – ALE 0.55, PME – PME 0.12, PME – PLE 0.25, PLE – PLE 0.76, ALE – PLE 0.06. MOA 0.44 long, front width 0.38, back width 0.41. Chelicerae 0.89 long, light brown, without teeth. Endites yellow. Labium triangular, yellow-brown, 0.20 long, 0.35 wide. Sternum yellowish, furnished with sparse black setae, 0.89 long, 0.74 wide. Lateral margins of sternum with small semi-circular pits in front of each coxa of third and fourth pair of legs. Legs yellowish, with proximal tubercle. Measurements of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 2.36 (0.83 + 0.40 + 0.44 + 0.69), I 6.10 (1.60 + 0.65 + 1.40 + 1.45 + 1.00), II 5.45 (1.45 + 0.65 + 1.10 + 1.25 + 1.00), III 6.00 (1.60 + 0.65 + 1.25 + 1.50 + 1.00), IV 8.00 (2.00 + 0.70 + 1.60 + 2.35 + 1.35). Leg formula: 4132. Opisthosoma oval; pattern on dorsum of opisthosoma provided large pale patches, roughly oval first pair of patches connected vertically with nearly round second pair, third and fourth pairs of nearly round patches connected medially and vertically with each other (Fig. 5 A). Dorsum of opisthosoma with large ovoid scutum. Posterior ventral spines elongated, gradually tapering, with acute apices (Fig. 5 A). Spinnerets pale yellow (Fig. 5 E). Palp (Figs 5 F – H, 8 E). VTA elevated subtriangular hump (Figs 5 G, 8 E); RTA digitiform, tapered towards blunt apex (Figs. 5 G – H); Cymbium with deep retrolateral fold, less than half the length of cymbium (Fig. 5 G), apicoprolateral process triangular with blunt apex, TT large triangular with pointed apex. Embolic base aligned in diagonally, directed posteriorly, with narrow membranous area (Fig. 5 G). Embolus, long, narrow, unbranched, with blunt apex. Conductor triangular, pointed apex. Female in alcohol (paratype; Fig. 5 B); Body length 6.46; carapace 2.97 long, 2.01 wide; opisthosoma 3.49 long, 2.46 wide. Habitus and details as in male except for the following (Fig. 5 B). Clypeus 0.34 high. Eye sizes and inter-distances: AME 0.13, ALE 0.11, PME 0.12, PLE 0.11; AME – AME 0.09, AME – PME 0.18, AME – ALE 0.13, ALE – ALE 0.60, PME – PME 0.13, PME – PLE 0.26, PLE – PLE 0.78, ALE – PLE 0.04. MOA 0.45 long, front width 0.36, back width 0.38. Labium 0.34 long, 0.47 wide. Sternum with shallow semi-circular pits, 1.25 long, 1.08 wide. Measurements of palp and legs: pedipalp (right) 2.25 (0.81 + 0.37 + 0.40 + 0.67) I 6.65 (1.80 + 0.75 + 1.60 + 1.55 + 0.95), II 6.60 (1.65 + 0.75 + 1.40 + 1.55 + 1.25), III 6.70 (1.70 + 0.75 + 1.50 + 1.75 + 1.00), IV 8.05 (1.95 + 0.75 + 1.75 + 2.25 + 1.35). Dorsum pattern of opisthosoma, indistinct, covered with thick black and white pubescence (Fig. 5 B). Genitalia (Figs 5 C – D, 7 E, 7 J, 9 I – 9 J). Epigynal plate wide, sub rectangular, with curved sclerotized epigynal furrows directed towards posteriorly (Figs 5 C, 9 I). Lateral borders sub-triangular, terminally acute (Figs 5 C, 9 I). Insemination ducts short, thick, distally diverging (Figs 5 D, 7 E, 7 J, 9 J), longer than spermathecal length. Spermathecae, globular in shape distally with coiled internal ducts (Fig. 9 J). Fertilization ducts as in fig 7 J.	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
039D5914FF9DFFA3FF4DFC8FFC8DFD7F.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Known only from the type locality (Fig. 12).	en	Dayananda, Naruwan, Benjamin, Suresh P. (2025): Five new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Sri Lanka. Zootaxa 5570 (1): 100-118, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.1.4
