Araneus andrewsi
This record describes Araneus andrewsi (species). Recorded family: Araneidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Female (adult/juvenile) -also see remarks below Epigynum Compare these two different voucher females, collected only 32 miles apart in California:
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
California north to Oregon
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Araneus andrewsi. 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 Araneus andrewsi (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Hollenbeck; Additional contributions by Lynette Elliott , cheins , Mandy Howe
Frequently Asked Questions About Araneus andrewsi
What is Araneus andrewsi?
Araneus andrewsi is a species in the family Araneidae, within the order Araneae.
How do you identify Araneus andrewsi?
Female (adult/juvenile) -also see remarks below Epigynum
Where is Araneus andrewsi found?
Range: California north to Oregon