Oedothorax apicatus
This record describes Oedothorax apicatus (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
This is a very small, dark bodied spider with red/brown legs. The species is a frequent aeronaut that occurs in most habitats. It is characteristic of open disturbed habitats such as disturbed grasslands, agricultural fields and river shingles. All year, peaking in late spring and summer and especially in July. It is predominantly a night active species. The species is fairly frequent and widespread in much of central and eastern England, but scattered elsewhere. 1883 British records for this species to 2014.
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
The species is a frequent aeronaut that occurs in most habitats. It is characteristic of open disturbed habitats such as disturbed grasslands, agricultural fields and river shingles.
Seasonal Activity
All year, peaking in late spring and summer and especially in July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is predominantly a night active species.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The species is fairly frequent and widespread in much of central and eastern England, but scattered elsewhere.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Oedothorax apicatus. 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 apicatus (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Oedothorax apicatus
What is Oedothorax apicatus?
Oedothorax apicatus is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Oedothorax apicatus found?
Habitat: The species is a frequent aeronaut that occurs in most habitats. It is characteristic of open disturbed habitats such as disturbed grasslands, agricultural fields and river shingles.
When is Oedothorax apicatus active?
Oedothorax apicatus: seasonal activity - All year, peaking in late spring and summer and especially in July..
What is the life cycle of a Oedothorax apicatus?
It is predominantly a night active species.