Oedothorax agrestis
This record describes Oedothorax agrestis (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance

| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body | Body length 2 to 3 mm. Prosoma brown to dark brown, distinctly darker radial stripes. |
| Legs | Legs yellow-orange. Opisthosoma blackish. Males distinguishable from the palps, particular the tibia. Females can be difficult to determine. Confirmation of this species requires examination of the genitalia of mature specimens. Widespread but patchy distribution in Britain. https://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Oedothorax+agrestis No additional images available for this species. |
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Linyphiidae
- Genus
- Oedothorax
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In damp habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Spring-Autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but patchy distribution in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Oedothorax agrestis. 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 Oedothorax agrestis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Oedothorax agrestis
What is Oedothorax agrestis?
Oedothorax agrestis is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Oedothorax agrestis?
2 to 3 mm. Prosoma brown to dark brown, distinctly darker radial stripes. Legs yellow-orange. Opisthosoma blackish.
Where is Oedothorax agrestis found?
Habitat: In damp habitats.
When is Oedothorax agrestis active?
Oedothorax agrestis: seasonal activity - Spring-Autumn..
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