Leptoctenus byrrhus
This record describes Leptoctenus byrrhus (species). Recorded family: Ctenidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Female (we think this placement in the Guide is highly likely, but have not received voucher specimens yet): Male (we think this placement in the Guide is highly likely, but have not received voucher specimens yet): We have observed several specimens of this species in the wild and in captivity and noted the unusual manner in which the animal walks with its front pair of legs held forward like antennae. - Sissom, Peck, & Cokendolpher 1999
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Have been collected among detritus, in woodrat nests, under rocks, and occasionally inside (or near the entrance to) caves.
Geographic Range
Southwest Texas and northeast Mexico on the coastal plains and in the mountains.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Simon, 1888
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Leptoctenus byrrhus. 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 Leptoctenus byrrhus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mandy Howe; Additional contributions by cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Leptoctenus byrrhus
What is Leptoctenus byrrhus?
Leptoctenus byrrhus is a species in the family Ctenidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Leptoctenus byrrhus?
Body length of adult male (excluding legs) 8.5-10.5 mm, of adult female 9.5-13.5 mm.
How do you identify Leptoctenus byrrhus?
Female (we think this placement in the Guide is highly likely, but have not received voucher specimens yet): Male (we think this placement in the Guide is highly likely, but have not received voucher specimens yet):
Where is Leptoctenus byrrhus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Have been collected among detritus, in woodrat nests, under rocks, and occasionally inside (or near the entrance to) caves. |
| Range | Southwest Texas and northeast Mexico on the coastal plains and in the mountains. |