Modysticus floridanus
This record describes Modysticus floridanus (species). Recorded family: Thomisidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Modysticus floridanus (Modysticus floridanus) is a species in the family Thomisidae, commonly known as crab spiders, belonging to the order Araneae (Spiders). This species belongs to the genus Modysticus. As a member of class Arachnida, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: Female: ~3mm Male: ~2.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Thomisidae (Crab Spiders)
- Genus
- Modysticus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Southeastern United States. FL, SC, TN.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Banks, 1895
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Modysticus floridanus. 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 Modysticus floridanus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Laura P.
Frequently Asked Questions About Modysticus floridanus
What is Modysticus floridanus?
Modysticus floridanus is a species in the family Thomisidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Modysticus floridanus?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Female | ~3mm |
| Male | ~2.5 |
Where is Modysticus floridanus found?
Range: Southeastern United States. FL, SC, TN.