The clade, a hallmark of current classification, is defined as one ancestor (either an individual or group) and all its descendants. Cladistic relationships are evaluated by determining the presence or absence of shared, derived characteristics. Phidippus putnami is one of approximately 60 salticid species in the genus Phidippus. The members of this group and their common ancestor share a unique characteristic – the upright tufts just behind the pair of small eyes (PME). While these tufts may be modified or absent in adult males they are often prominent in females. The females of most Phidippus species have a pair of tufts (see P. purpuratus video) but some including P. putnami sport a row of 4 post-PME tufts. Adult males of this species show modified tufts that form a crest.
Edwards, 2004.