Diplocephalus picinus
This record describes Diplocephalus picinus (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A small dark spider very similar in appearance to other members of the group. Detailed examination is necessary for identification. Microscopic examination of the genitalia is required to confirm this species. A spider associated with woodlands and scrub. This is a characteristic woodland litter species, but recorded from some other habitats where it can be found close to the ground in a sheet-web. There is a peak in recorded adults of both sexes in May, June and July. The species is widespread in much of Britain, but very scattered or absent from some areas. 2,994 British records for this species to 2014. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Linyphiidae
- Genus
- Diplocephalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A spider associated with woodlands and scrub. This is a characteristic woodland litter species, but recorded from some other habitats where it can be found close to the ground in a sheet-web.
Seasonal Activity
There is a peak in recorded adults of both sexes in May, June and July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The species is widespread in much of Britain, but very scattered or absent from some areas.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Diplocephalus picinus. 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 Diplocephalus picinus (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Diplocephalus picinus
What is Diplocephalus picinus?
Diplocephalus picinus is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Diplocephalus picinus found?
Habitat: A spider associated with woodlands and scrub. This is a characteristic woodland litter species, but recorded from some other habitats where it can be found close to the ground in a sheet-web.
When is Diplocephalus picinus active?
Diplocephalus picinus: seasonal activity - There is a peak in recorded adults of both sexes in May, June and July..