Micaria longispina
This record describes Micaria longispina (species). Recorded family: Gnaphosidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Epigynum closest to M. idana and M. medica but can be distinguished by the ventrally directed and expanded tip of the embolus and the curved lateral ridges of the epigynum.
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
Geographic Range
Southern New England south to Florida and west to Arkansas
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Micaria longispina. 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 longispina (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Maury J. Heiman; Additional contributions by cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Micaria longispina
What is Micaria longispina?
Micaria longispina is a species in the family Gnaphosidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Micaria longispina?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Males | ~2.1 mm |
| Females | ~2.4 mm |
How do you identify Micaria longispina?
Epigynum
Where is Micaria longispina found?
Range: Southern New England south to Florida and west to Arkansas