Scytodes alayoi
This record describes Scytodes alayoi (species). Recorded family: Scytodidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Small size, unique markings, and strong spines on tibia I unique to mature males of the species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Scytodidae (Spitting Spiders)
- Genus
- Scytodes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Old field and sand scrub. Low, woody shrubs, old palm fronds, bark, in dry areas.
Geographic Range
Cuba, Mexico, United States (south FL north to Orange County, based on BG images. Possibly introduced)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Insects, other spiders.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Scytodes alayoi Alayón, 1977b Named for Dr. Pastor Alayo Dalmau, authors indiscutible maestro, and the first collector of the species.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Scytodes alayoi. 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 Scytodes alayoi (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jeff Hollenbeck
Frequently Asked Questions About Scytodes alayoi
What is Scytodes alayoi?
Scytodes alayoi is a species in the family Scytodidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Scytodes alayoi?
Body length 3-5mm.
How do you identify Scytodes alayoi?
Small size, unique markings, and strong spines on tibia I unique to mature males of the species.
Where is Scytodes alayoi found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Old field and sand scrub. Low, woody shrubs, old palm fronds, bark, in dry areas. |
| Range | Cuba, Mexico, United States (south FL north to Orange County, based on BG images. Possibly introduced) |
What does Scytodes alayoi eat?
The diet of the Scytodes alayoi includes Insects, other spiders..