Clubiona phragmitis
This record describes Clubiona phragmitis (species). Recorded family: Clubionidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
One of several similar looking Clubiona, although this species has much more robust chelicerae than the rest of the genus. Microscopic examination of the genitalia is necessary to confirm identification. Microscopic examination of the genitalia is necessary to confirm identification. Can be found in most wetland habitats, especially in emergent vegetation at the edge of water and occasionally on sand dunes. In standing water the spider may be seen stalking prey on stems just above the waterline. Adults have been found throughout the year, but mostly in late spring to mid-summer and late summer to early autumn. The silk retreat is often easiest to see, woven into a folded reed leaf or Phragmites head, where the female may be found guarding her egg-sac. The species is widespread in much of England from Yorkshire southwards and lowland Wales, but very scattered in south-west England and northern Britain. https://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Clubiona+phragmitis
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Clubionidae
- Genus
- Clubiona
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Can be found in most wetland habitats, especially in emergent vegetation at the edge of water and occasionally on sand dunes. In standing water the spider may be seen stalking prey on stems just above the waterline.
Seasonal Activity
Adults have been found throughout the year, but mostly in late spring to mid-summer and late summer to early autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The silk retreat is often easiest to see, woven into a folded reed leaf or Phragmites head, where the female may be found guarding her egg-sac.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The species is widespread in much of England from Yorkshire southwards and lowland Wales, but very scattered in south-west England and northern Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Clubiona phragmitis. 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 Clubiona phragmitis (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Clubiona phragmitis
What is Clubiona phragmitis?
Clubiona phragmitis is a species in the family Clubionidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Clubiona phragmitis found?
Habitat: Can be found in most wetland habitats, especially in emergent vegetation at the edge of water and occasionally on sand dunes. In standing water the spider may be seen stalking prey on stems just above the waterline.
When is Clubiona phragmitis active?
Clubiona phragmitis: seasonal activity - Adults have been found throughout the year, but mostly in late spring to mid-summer and late summer to early autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Clubiona phragmitis?
The silk retreat is often easiest to see, woven into a folded reed leaf or Phragmites head, where the female may be found guarding her egg-sac.