Hypositticus pubescens
This record describes Hypositticus pubescens (species). Recorded family: Salticidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A small (5 mm) but sprightly jumping spider with a large and quite angular head and a hairy body patterned with browns, black and light greys. Identification of this species Requires examination at high magnification in good lighting, typically examination of the genitalia. Bee, L., Oxford, G., & Smith, H. (2020). Britain's Spiders: A Field Guide. Second Edition. Princeton University Press. This spider is usually found around human habitations, sometimes under stones and sometimes in houses. In more open environments it may be seen resting on fence posts etc. Fairly frequent and widespread in England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Salticidae
- Genus
- Hypositticus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
This spider is usually found around human habitations, sometimes under stones and sometimes in houses. In more open environments it may be seen resting on fence posts etc.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread in England and Wales.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Hypositticus pubescens. 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 Hypositticus pubescens (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hypositticus pubescens
What is Hypositticus pubescens?
Hypositticus pubescens is a species in the family Salticidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Hypositticus pubescens found?
Habitat: This spider is usually found around human habitations, sometimes under stones and sometimes in houses. In more open environments it may be seen resting on fence posts etc.
When is Hypositticus pubescens active?
Hypositticus pubescens: seasonal activity - Mainly spring to autumn..