Episinus angulatus
This record describes Episinus angulatus (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A small, mottled brownish tangle-web spider. The body is rather thin, the flat abdomen broadens a little bit near the end. Females grow up to 5.5 mm, males slightly smaller. Episinus truncatus – microscopic examination of genitalia is required to confirm identity. Microscopic examination of genitalia is required to confirm identity. Summer, peaking in May and June, females persisting occasionally until September. http://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Episinus+angulatus No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Theridiidae
- Genus
- Episinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassland and scrub.
Seasonal Activity
Summer, peaking in May and June, females persisting occasionally until September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Generally uncommon.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Episinus angulatus. 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 angulatus (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Episinus angulatus
What is Episinus angulatus?
Episinus angulatus is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Episinus angulatus found?
Habitat: Grassland and scrub.
When is Episinus angulatus active?
Episinus angulatus: seasonal activity - Summer, peaking in May and June, females persisting occasionally until September..