Phrurolithus festivus
This record describes Phrurolithus festivus (species). Recorded family: Corinnidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
An ant mimic and a distinctive and well marked small spider. Often found on the ground or under stones etc. It is surface active during the daytime and is often found in the company of ants. Phrurolithus festivus is fairly frequent in southern Britain, less common further north. 2,816 British records for this species to 2015.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Corinnidae
- Genus
- Phrurolithus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found on the ground or under stones etc.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is surface active during the daytime and is often found in the company of ants.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Phrurolithus festivus
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Phrurolithus festivus. 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 Phrurolithus festivus (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phrurolithus festivus
What is Phrurolithus festivus?
Phrurolithus festivus is a species in the family Corinnidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Phrurolithus festivus found?
Habitat: Often found on the ground or under stones etc.
When is Phrurolithus festivus active?
Phrurolithus festivus: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Phrurolithus festivus?
It is surface active during the daytime and is often found in the company of ants.