Mermessus fradeorum
This record describes Mermessus fradeorum (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Small differences in epigynum and by the different shape of the dorsal plate. In males differences in the shape of the embolic division and the papal tibia. There is also a trichobothria on metatarsus IV. Male:
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Linyphiidae (Sheetweb and Dwarf Spiders)
- Subfamily
- Erigoninae
- Genus
- Mermessus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Widely distributed on the eastern side of North America but does not extend to Mexico. Introduced to Azores, Cyprus, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, China, and New Zealand.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: (Berland, 1932)
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Mermessus fradeorum. 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 Mermessus fradeorum (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Laura P.; Additional contributions by cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Mermessus fradeorum
What is Mermessus fradeorum?
Mermessus fradeorum is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Mermessus fradeorum?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Female | ~2.9-3.0mm |
| Male | ~3.0-3.1mm |
How do you identify Mermessus fradeorum?
Small differences in epigynum and by the different shape of the dorsal plate. In males differences in the shape of the embolic division and the papal tibia. There is also a trichobothria on metatarsus IV. Male:
Where is Mermessus fradeorum found?
Range: Widely distributed on the eastern side of North America but does not extend to Mexico. Introduced to Azores, Cyprus, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, China, and New Zealand.