Oedothorax retusus
This record describes Oedothorax retusus (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Males 2 mm, females 2.5 to 3 mm. Prosoma light to dark brown, margin and radial stripes darker, steeply ascending behind eyes. Legs yellow-orange. Opisthosoma grey. Tibial spines: 2-2-2-2 / TmIV: no / TmI: 0.34-0.44 Confirmation of this species requires examination of the genitals of mature specimens. Widespread, particularly in damp grassland. http://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Oedothorax+retusus 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
Widespread, particularly in damp grassland.
Seasonal Activity
All year
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Oedothorax retusus. 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 retusus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Oedothorax retusus
What is Oedothorax retusus?
Oedothorax retusus is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Oedothorax retusus found?
Habitat: Widespread, particularly in damp grassland.
When is Oedothorax retusus active?
Oedothorax retusus: seasonal activity - All year.