Ozyptila brevipes
This record describes Ozyptila brevipes (species). Recorded family: Thomisidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2 to 4 mm. A small dark crab spider. Identification of this species Requires examination at high magnification in good lighting, typically examination of the genitalia. Bee, L., Oxford, G., & Smith, H. (2020). Britain's Spiders: A Field Guide. Second Edition. Princeton University Press. https://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Ozyptila+brevipes No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Thomisidae
- Genus
- Ozyptila
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Heathland, grassland.
Seasonal Activity
Mostly Spring-Autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but scattered in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Ozyptila brevipes. 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 Ozyptila brevipes (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Ozyptila brevipes
What is Ozyptila brevipes?
Ozyptila brevipes is a species in the family Thomisidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Ozyptila brevipes?
2 to 4 mm. A small dark crab spider.
Where is Ozyptila brevipes found?
Habitat: Heathland, grassland.
When is Ozyptila brevipes active?
Ozyptila brevipes: seasonal activity - Mostly Spring-Autumn..