Anyphaena californica
This record describes Anyphaena californica (species). Recorded family: Anyphaenidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Very similar to A. pacifica . Requires microscopic examination of the genitalia of adults to distinguish them. Palp (ventral/retrolateral view) Epigynum
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Anyphaenidae (Ghost Spiders)
- Genus
- Anyphaena
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
California and Oregon
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Mature males have been collected from early March to mid-July. Mature females have been collected from mid-March to mid-November.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Anyphaena californica. 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 californica (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ken Schneider; Additional contributions by cheins , jsloan
Frequently Asked Questions About Anyphaena californica
What is Anyphaena californica?
Anyphaena californica is a species in the family Anyphaenidae, within the order Araneae.
How do you identify Anyphaena californica?
Very similar to A. pacifica . Requires microscopic examination of the genitalia of adults to distinguish them. Palp (ventral/retrolateral view) Epigynum
Where is Anyphaena californica found?
Range: California and Oregon
What is the life cycle of a Anyphaena californica?
Mature males have been collected from early March to mid-July. Mature females have been collected from mid-March to mid-November.