Common Fox-spider
Alopecosa pulverulenta
This record describes Alopecosa pulverulenta (species). Recorded family: Lycosidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 10 mm. The markings of this wolf spider are variable in colouration and patterning. Other Alopecosa species have broadly similar markings so care is needed. Confirmation of this species: Requires examination at high magnification in good lighting, typically examination of the genitalia. Bee, L., Oxford, G., & Smith, H. (2020). Britain's Spiders: A Field Guide. Second Edition. Princeton University Press. Common on dry heathland areas and woodland. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Common on dry heathland areas and woodland.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Alopecosa pulverulenta. 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 Common Fox-spider (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Common Fox-spider
What is Common Fox-spider?
Common Fox-spider (Alopecosa pulverulenta) is a species in the family Lycosidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Common Fox-spider?
5 to 10 mm. The markings of this wolf spider are variable in colouration and patterning.
Where is Common Fox-spider found?
Habitat: Common on dry heathland areas and woodland.
When is Common Fox-spider active?
Common Fox-spider: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..