Dictyna uncinata
This record describes Dictyna uncinata (species). Recorded family: Dictynidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A very small (3 mm) spider. This is a sexually dimorphic species - the female has a dark and light brown patterned hairy body, the male is more uniformly dark grey or blackish. No darkening of apical ends of tarsi. Confirmation requires microscopic examination of the genitalia of adult specimens. Confirmation requires microscopic examination of the genitalia of adult specimens. It makes its mesh web across the surface of the leaves of bushes and trees. The species is widespread and fairly common in England, but with few records from the south-west, Wales or Scotland.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Dictynidae
- Genus
- Dictyna
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Scrub, hedgerows and woodland.
Seasonal Activity
Best from May to July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It makes its mesh web across the surface of the leaves of bushes and trees.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The species is widespread and fairly common in England, but with few records from the south-west, Wales or Scotland.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Dictyna uncinata. 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 Dictyna uncinata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dictyna uncinata
What is Dictyna uncinata?
Dictyna uncinata is a species in the family Dictynidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Dictyna uncinata found?
Habitat: Scrub, hedgerows and woodland.
When is Dictyna uncinata active?
Dictyna uncinata: seasonal activity - Best from May to July..
What is the life cycle of a Dictyna uncinata?
It makes its mesh web across the surface of the leaves of bushes and trees.