Diguetia albolineata
This record describes Diguetia albolineata (species). Recorded family: Diguetidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
The family is totally New World and consists of six-eyed haplogyne spiders that build haphazard webs in between cactus pads and in other vegetation. The web usually contains a silken and debris covered cone containing the egg sacs and into which the spider retreats. While these spiders are related to the Brown Recluse family (Sicariidae) I have never heard of their venom being toxic to humans. David B. Richman College Professor Emeritus New Mexico State University
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Diguetidae
- Genus
- Diguetia (Desertshrub Spiders)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Southwestern United States from Southern California to West Texas, southward into Mexico.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Author of the name:O. P.-Cambridge. Year first published: 1895.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Diguetia albolineata. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diguetia albolineata
What is Diguetia albolineata?
Diguetia albolineata is a species in the family Diguetidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Diguetia albolineata?
5 or 6 mm
Where is Diguetia albolineata found?
Range: Southwestern United States from Southern California to West Texas, southward into Mexico.