Monocephalus fuscipes
This record describes Monocephalus fuscipes (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
This is a very small (2 mm) spider. The colouring is variable, but the abdomen is usually brown or black. Confirmation of this species requires examination of the genitals of mature specimens. Confirmation of this species requires examination of the genitals of mature specimens. Often found in leaf litter in its preferred habitat of broad-leaved and coniferous woodland, but it has also been recorded in other habitats including rocky heathland, grassland and disused quarries. Adults are found throughout the year, with peaks in the spring and early summer, and in the autumn. http://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Monocephalus+fuscipes
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Linyphiidae
- Genus
- Monocephalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found in leaf litter in its preferred habitat of broad-leaved and coniferous woodland, but it has also been recorded in other habitats including rocky heathland, grassland and disused quarries.
Seasonal Activity
Adults are found throughout the year, with peaks in the spring and early summer, and in the autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Monocephalus fuscipes. 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 Monocephalus fuscipes (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Monocephalus fuscipes
What is Monocephalus fuscipes?
Monocephalus fuscipes is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Monocephalus fuscipes found?
Habitat: Often found in leaf litter in its preferred habitat of broad-leaved and coniferous woodland, but it has also been recorded in other habitats including rocky heathland, grassland and disused quarries.
When is Monocephalus fuscipes active?
Monocephalus fuscipes: seasonal activity - Adults are found throughout the year, with peaks in the spring and early summer, and in the autumn..