Episinus amoenus
This record describes Episinus amoenus (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Abdomen can be variable in shape. The tubercles can be long and pointed in immature specimens or short and round in mature specimens. (Levi, 1954)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Theridiidae (Cobweb Spiders)
- Genus
- Episinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Found in the southeastern states, as far north as Maryland.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Author of the name: Banks. Year first published: 1911.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Episinus amoenus. 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 Episinus amoenus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by john and jane balaban; Additional contributions by Lynette Elliott
Frequently Asked Questions About Episinus amoenus
What is Episinus amoenus?
Episinus amoenus is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Episinus amoenus?
3-4.5 mm
How do you identify Episinus amoenus?
Abdomen can be variable in shape. The tubercles can be long and pointed in immature specimens or short and round in mature specimens. (Levi, 1954)
Where is Episinus amoenus found?
Range: Found in the southeastern states, as far north as Maryland.