Physocyclus globosus
This record describes Physocyclus globosus (species). Recorded family: Pholcidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Synanthropic, common in homes and other buildings.
Geographic Range
Cosmopolitan, introduced in FL.
Seasonal Activity
Probably year round in FL.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Insects and spiders.
Life History
Huber, B. A. & Eberhard, W. G. (1997). Courtship, copulation, and genital mechanics in Physocyclus globosus (Araneae, Pholcidae). Canadian Journal of Zoology 74: 905-918.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Physocyclus globosus. 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 Physocyclus globosus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Hollenbeck
Frequently Asked Questions About Physocyclus globosus
Where is Physocyclus globosus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Synanthropic, common in homes and other buildings. |
| Range | Cosmopolitan, introduced in FL. |
What does Physocyclus globosus eat?
The diet of the Physocyclus globosus includes Insects and spiders..
When is Physocyclus globosus active?
Physocyclus globosus: seasonal activity - Probably year round in FL..
What is the life cycle of a Physocyclus globosus?
Huber, B. A. & Eberhard, W. G. (1997). Courtship, copulation, and genital mechanics in Physocyclus globosus (Araneae, Pholcidae). Canadian Journal of Zoology 74: 905-918.