Araneus bonsallae
This record describes Araneus bonsallae (species). Recorded family: Araneidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
To separate from other similar looking green Araneus, look for the dark patch on the dorsum. Palp
Wikipedia reference for Araneus bonsallae: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Araneus bonsallae.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
New York to Florida and west to Kansas and Texas
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Author of the name: McCook. Year first published: 1894.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Araneus bonsallae. 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 bonsallae (6)
Photo credits: Contributed by Lynette Elliott; Additional contributions by cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Araneus bonsallae
What is Araneus bonsallae?
Araneus bonsallae is a species in the family Araneidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Araneus bonsallae?
Female 6 mm Male 4 mm
How do you identify Araneus bonsallae?
To separate from other similar looking green Araneus, look for the dark patch on the dorsum. Palp
Where is Araneus bonsallae found?
Range: New York to Florida and west to Kansas and Texas