Gongylidium rufipes
This record describes Gongylidium rufipes (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A small dark bodied spider. Detailed examination is needed for correct identification. Gongylidium rufipes occurs mainly in undergrowth and on bushes and trees in woodland but also in damp and wet situations and in a wide variety of other habitats including leaf litter. Adults occur mostly in summer but may be found at any time of year. The species is widespread in most of Britain except the extreme north. 4,687 British records for this species to 2014.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Linyphiidae
- Genus
- Gongylidium
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Gongylidium rufipes
Seasonal Activity
Adults occur mostly in summer but may be found at any time of year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The species is widespread in most of Britain except the extreme north.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Gongylidium rufipes. 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 Gongylidium rufipes (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Gongylidium rufipes
What is Gongylidium rufipes?
Gongylidium rufipes is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Gongylidium rufipes found?
Habitat: Gongylidium rufipes
When is Gongylidium rufipes active?
Gongylidium rufipes: seasonal activity - Adults occur mostly in summer but may be found at any time of year..