Haplodrassus signifer
This record describes Haplodrassus signifer (species). Recorded family: Gnaphosidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Palp Epigynum
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Gnaphosidae (Ground Spiders)
- Genus
- Haplodrassus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Yukon Territory to Nova Scotia, south to Mexico and Florida; also Greenland, Europe, & Asia.
Seasonal Activity
Mature males and females can be found year round, but are more common in the summer months in the northern parts of their range.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Haplodrassus signifer. 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 Haplodrassus signifer (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mandy Howe; Additional contributions by cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Haplodrassus signifer
How big is Haplodrassus signifer?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Males | ~6.5 mm |
| Females | ~7.2 mm |
How do you identify Haplodrassus signifer?
Palp Epigynum
Where is Haplodrassus signifer found?
Range: Yukon Territory to Nova Scotia, south to Mexico and Florida; also Greenland, Europe, & Asia.
When is Haplodrassus signifer active?
Haplodrassus signifer: seasonal activity - Mature males and females can be found year round, but are more common in the summer months in the northern parts of their range..