Metepeira arizonica
This record describes Metepeira arizonica (species). Recorded family: Araneidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Like M. crassipes (unlike M. grinnelli and gosoga) the carapace is very dark brownish black except for the light transverse anterior head region. The following image is closest to the ventral drawing in the work cited: (two white ventral marks & 2 spots above spinnerets) Rarely they are light in color on the carapce and dorsum.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Western Texas, northern Arizona to California.
Seasonal Activity
Collected March to December.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Author of the name: Chamberlin & Ivie. Year first published: 1942.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Metepeira arizonica. 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 Metepeira arizonica (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Devin Carroll; Additional contributions by Lynette Elliott , cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Metepeira arizonica
What is Metepeira arizonica?
Metepeira arizonica is a species in the family Araneidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Metepeira arizonica?
Females 4.7 to 8.4 mm, Males 2.7 to 3.8 mm
How do you identify Metepeira arizonica?
Like M. crassipes (unlike M. grinnelli and gosoga) the carapace is very dark brownish black except for the light transverse anterior head region. The following image is closest to the ventral drawing in the work cited: (two white ventral marks & 2 spots above spinnerets)
Where is Metepeira arizonica found?
Range: Western Texas, northern Arizona to California.
When is Metepeira arizonica active?
Metepeira arizonica: seasonal activity - Collected March to December..