Micaria jeanae
This record describes Micaria jeanae (species). Recorded family: Gnaphosidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Epigynum This species seems closest to M. pasadena but can be distinguished by the two equally long tibial apophyses of males and the narrow, hood-like anterior epigynal margin of females.
Identification notes
Epigynum
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Gnaphosidae (Ground Spiders)
- Genus
- Micaria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
"Specimens have been taken in pinyon pine and juniper, eucalyptus duff, and Bermuda grass, under rocks, on beaches, and in buildings, at elevations up to 3600 ft ".
Geographic Range
"Southwestern United States and western Mexico "
Seasonal Activity
Mature males: late February to late August Mature females: late March to mid-November
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Micaria jeanae. 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 Micaria jeanae (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ken Schneider; Additional contributions by cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Micaria jeanae
What is Micaria jeanae?
Micaria jeanae is a species in the family Gnaphosidae, within the order Araneae.
How do you identify Micaria jeanae?
Epigynum
Where is Micaria jeanae found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Specimens have been taken in pinyon pine and juniper, eucalyptus duff, and Bermuda grass, under rocks, on beaches, and in buildings, at elevations up to 3600 ft . |
| Range | Southwestern United States and western Mexico |
When is Micaria jeanae active?
Micaria jeanae: seasonal activity - Mature males: late February to late August Mature females: late March to mid-November.