Anyphaena accentuata
This record describes Anyphaena accentuata (species). Recorded family: Anyphaenidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Size 4.5 to 7 mm. Although variable in appearance, the two chevron marks on the abdomen are the indicator of this species. There are three Anyphaena species in the UK and all are extremely similar. Microscopic examination of the genitals of mature specimens is necessary to identify this species safely. Found hunting over foliage of trees and shrubs, rarely found on the ground. This species gets its name from the fact that the male taps its abdomen on a leaf during courtship, making an audible buzzing sound. Widespread and frequent over much of Britain, especially in the South.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Anyphaenidae
- Genus
- Anyphaena
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found hunting over foliage of trees and shrubs, rarely found on the ground.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This species gets its name from the fact that the male taps its abdomen on a leaf during courtship, making an audible buzzing sound.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent over much of Britain, especially in the South.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Anyphaena accentuata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
As of 2023, 51,673 spider species in 136 families have been recorded, though an estimated 150,000 species exist. Spiders rank 7th in total species diversity among all organism orders. Only 0.5% of spider species pose any risk to human health.
Ecological role of the group
Spider venom contains complex peptides with diverse pharmacological activities, making them valuable for drug development research. Spiders produce up to 7 types of silk from specialized glands. Spider silk genes have been inserted into mammals and plants for biotech applications.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The global spider community kills an estimated 400-800 million tons of prey annually (2017 study). Spiders provide billions of dollars in natural pest control for agriculture. Spider silk is 5× stronger than steel of the same diameter, driving a biomaterials research industry.
Recorded sources for this group: World Spider Catalog, PNAS, Nature, ScienceDirect. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Anyphaena accentuata (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Anyphaena accentuata
What is Anyphaena accentuata?
Anyphaena accentuata is a species in the family Anyphaenidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Anyphaena accentuata?
4.5 to 7 mm. Although variable in appearance, the two chevron marks on the abdomen are the indicator of this species.
Where is Anyphaena accentuata found?
Habitat: Found hunting over foliage of trees and shrubs, rarely found on the ground.
What is the life cycle of a Anyphaena accentuata?
This species gets its name from the fact that the male taps its abdomen on a leaf during courtship, making an audible buzzing sound.