Schizocosa ocreata
This record describes Schizocosa ocreata (species). Recorded family: Lycosidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
In males, the femur and tibia on leg I are dark with a prominent tibial brush. Palp: Epigynum:
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woodland edges
Geographic Range
This species is widespread in the eastern U.S. and has been found west to western South Dakota and south into Mexico. (Dondale & Redner, 1978)
Seasonal Activity
Maturing in spring with adults occurring into August.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Schizocosa ocreata. 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 Schizocosa ocreata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Eric R. Eaton; Additional contributions by cheins
Frequently Asked Questions About Schizocosa ocreata
What is Schizocosa ocreata?
Schizocosa ocreata is a species in the family Lycosidae, within the order Araneae.
How do you identify Schizocosa ocreata?
In males, the femur and tibia on leg I are dark with a prominent tibial brush. Palp: Epigynum:
Where is Schizocosa ocreata found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Woodland edges |
| Range | This species is widespread in the eastern U.S. and has been found west to western South Dakota and south into Mexico. (Dondale & Redner, 1978) |
When is Schizocosa ocreata active?
Schizocosa ocreata: seasonal activity - Maturing in spring with adults occurring into August..