Parasteatoda simulans
This record describes Parasteatoda simulans (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Males 2.5 to 3 mm, females 4 to 4.5 mm. Prosoma ochre-yellow. Sternum ochre yellow or brown, mostly irregularly spotted and with dark margin. Legs brown with narrow, darker rings. Opisthosoma spotted light and dark brown. Markings very variable. Examination of genitalia of mature specimens is required to confirm this species. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Examination of genitalia of mature specimens is required to confirm this species. Widely distributed but not well recorded in Britain. May be fairly frequent in our area but possibly under recorded. https://araneae.nmbe.ch/data/1300/Parasteatoda_simulans No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Theridiidae
- Genus
- Parasteatoda
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On trees and shrubs.
Seasonal Activity
Summer and Autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widely distributed but not well recorded in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Parasteatoda simulans. 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 Parasteatoda simulans (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Parasteatoda simulans
What is Parasteatoda simulans?
Parasteatoda simulans is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Parasteatoda simulans found?
Habitat: On trees and shrubs.
When is Parasteatoda simulans active?
Parasteatoda simulans: seasonal activity - Summer and Autumn..