Metepeira spinipes
This record describes Metepeira spinipes (species). Recorded family: Araneidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Coloring is pronounced and leg banding is more distinct than the similar M. labyrinthea . Most species have the ventral white line of the sternum broken by black pigment; sometimes the anterior or posterior part of the line is missing. M. grinnelli differs from M. arizonica in having the posterior head region darker usually than the thorax to the sides. (One or two white ventral marks & 2 spots around spinnerets)
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Arizona, Oregon, California.
Seasonal Activity
July to October.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Metepeira spinipes. 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 spinipes (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Hollenbeck; Additional contributions by Lynette Elliott , cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Metepeira spinipes
What is Metepeira spinipes?
Metepeira spinipes is a species in the family Araneidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Metepeira spinipes?
Females 5 to 9.4 mm, Males 3.6 to 6.7 mm.
How do you identify Metepeira spinipes?
Coloring is pronounced and leg banding is more distinct than the similar M. labyrinthea . Most species have the ventral white line of the sternum broken by black pigment; sometimes the anterior or posterior part of the line is missing. M. grinnelli differs from M. arizonica in having the posterior head region darker usually than the thorax to the sides. (One or two white ventral marks & 2 spots around spinnerets)
Where is Metepeira spinipes found?
Range: Arizona, Oregon, California.
When is Metepeira spinipes active?
Metepeira spinipes: seasonal activity - July to October..