Taxonomic revalidation of Schmidt, 1999 and Schmidt & von Wirth, 1992 based on morphological and molecular analyses (Araneae, Theraphosidae), with the description of a new species from Romblon Island, Philippines.

Schmidt, 1999 and Schmidt & von Wirth, 1992 were considered junior synonyms to Simon, 1892 without further morphological investigation nor the use of molecular methods of analysis. Herein, the type specimens are reexamined with newly collected samples of currently known species, including new specimens from Romblon Island, Philippines. Morphological and molecular analyses were performed, utilizing cytochrome oxidase I (COI) and ribosomal genes (12S-tRNA-Val-16S). Synapomorphies in the structure of maxillary lyra, spermathecae, and male palpal morphology were observed in and the Romblon specimen which are distinct from other species. In addition, lyrate morphology, setae structure on the patella of palp dorsal, and the male palpal organ morphology of differ from other species. Cladistic separation observed in molecular phylogenetic analyses supports morphological observations. Our findings suggest that the genus is distinct from ; hence, the genus Schmidt, 1999, and its type species Schmidt, 1999, , are restored and the new species from Romblon Island, , be identified as the second species. Furthermore, the genus Schmidt & von Wirth, 1992, and the original combination of its type species, Schmidt & von Wirth, 1992, are restored. Male specimens of and were described for the first time. Insights on the biogeography of Philippine tarantulas are discussed.