Psilochorus apicalis
This record describes Psilochorus apicalis (species). Recorded family: Pholcidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Per Slowik 2009: This species can be separated from all other species by the cheliceral spur shape in the males and the overhanging MEP in the females. The sternal pattern is also distinctive.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
California.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Psilochorus apicalis. 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 Psilochorus apicalis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ken Schneider; Additional contributions by cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Psilochorus apicalis
What is Psilochorus apicalis?
Psilochorus apicalis is a species in the family Pholcidae, within the order Araneae.
How do you identify Psilochorus apicalis?
Per Slowik 2009: This species can be separated from all other species by the cheliceral spur shape in the males and the overhanging MEP in the females. The sternal pattern is also distinctive.
Where is Psilochorus apicalis found?
Range: California.