Porrhomma microphthalmum
This record describes Porrhomma microphthalmum (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Unless identified by a recognised expert, the specimen should be examined with a microscope and photos showing details of genitals should be provided. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. A common spider of agricultural fields and grassland. Partly subterranean, living between cracks in the soil. However, it may on occasion, be found higher up in vegetation, for example on shrubs. Adults of both sexes found throughout the year. Widespread in central and south-eastern England but more scattered elsewhere. http://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Porrhomma+microphthalmum No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Linyphiidae
- Genus
- Porrhomma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A common spider of agricultural fields and grassland. Partly subterranean, living between cracks in the soil. However, it may on occasion, be found higher up in vegetation, for example on shrubs.
Seasonal Activity
Adults of both sexes found throughout the year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in central and south-eastern England but more scattered elsewhere.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Porrhomma microphthalmum. 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 Porrhomma microphthalmum (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Porrhomma microphthalmum
What is Porrhomma microphthalmum?
Porrhomma microphthalmum is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Porrhomma microphthalmum found?
Habitat: A common spider of agricultural fields and grassland. Partly subterranean, living between cracks in the soil. However, it may on occasion, be found higher up in vegetation, for example on shrubs.
When is Porrhomma microphthalmum active?
Porrhomma microphthalmum: seasonal activity - Adults of both sexes found throughout the year..