Robertus lividus
This record describes Robertus lividus (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2.5 to 4.5 mm. Prosoma yellowish red-brown. Opisthosoma yellowish grey to almost black. Examination of the genitalia of mature specimens is required to confirm this species. A ground living species found under stones, in leaf litter and moss. https://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Robertus+lividus
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Theridiidae
- Genus
- Robertus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A ground living species found under stones, in leaf litter and moss.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Robertus lividus. 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 Robertus lividus (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Robertus lividus
What is Robertus lividus?
Robertus lividus is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Robertus lividus?
2.5 to 4.5 mm. Prosoma yellowish red-brown. Opisthosoma yellowish grey to almost black.
Where is Robertus lividus found?
Habitat: A ground living species found under stones, in leaf litter and moss.
When is Robertus lividus active?
Robertus lividus: seasonal activity - All year round..