Phylloneta impressa
This record describes Phylloneta impressa (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A small, well marked spider, but quite similar to related species so care needs to be taken with identification and detailed examination of the specimen may be necessary. This species is typically found on gorse bushes and heather on open ground, but can also be found on oak, blackthorn, nettles and thistles. Adult males have been recorded between May and August, adult females between June and October, and even on one occasion in December. It constructs an inverted cup shaped retreat, which it covers with plant debris. Below its retreat the spider spins a typical Theridiidae tangle web. Theridion impressum is widespread especially in central southern England, but becomes scattered or absent in parts of the west and north, and is very rare in some parts of the east, including well-recorded counties such as Essex.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Theridiidae (Cobweb Spiders)
- Genus
- Phylloneta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
This species is typically found on gorse bushes and heather on open ground, but can also be found on oak, blackthorn, nettles and thistles.
Seasonal Activity
Adult males have been recorded between May and August, adult females between June and October, and even on one occasion in December.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It constructs an inverted cup shaped retreat, which it covers with plant debris. Below its retreat the spider spins a typical Theridiidae tangle web.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Theridion impressum is widespread especially in central southern England, but becomes scattered or absent in parts of the west and north, and is very rare in some parts of the east, including well-recorded counties such as Essex.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Phylloneta impressa. 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 Phylloneta impressa (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phylloneta impressa
What is Phylloneta impressa?
Phylloneta impressa is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Phylloneta impressa found?
Habitat: This species is typically found on gorse bushes and heather on open ground, but can also be found on oak, blackthorn, nettles and thistles.
When is Phylloneta impressa active?
Phylloneta impressa: seasonal activity - Adult males have been recorded between May and August, adult females between June and October, and even on one occasion in December..
What is the life cycle of a Phylloneta impressa?
It constructs an inverted cup shaped retreat, which it covers with plant debris. Below its retreat the spider spins a typical Theridiidae tangle web.