Tetragnatha extensa
This record describes Tetragnatha extensa (species). Recorded family: Tetragnathidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
This is a very difficult species to identify as there are other similar species and certain identification requires detailed examination. If we cannot be certain that an image is T. extensa but it is likely to be this species, it is highlighted in a red box. The female has a body length of up to 11 mm, while the male is slightly smaller, growing to around 9 mm. The body colour can vary from creamy-yellow to green. Tetragnatha are difficult to identify and microscopic examination of the genitals of mature specimens is necessary to separate the species safely. Tetragnatha are difficult to identify and microscopic examination of the genitals of mature specimens is necessary to separate the species safely. Found on low growing vegetation, often near water or boggy areas. All the Tetragnatha species are stretch spiders and they adopt the habit of stretching their legs out in front and behind to produce a stick like effect and can be very difficult to detect on vegetation. Even when exposed on the web they can look just like vegetative litter. Common and widespread throughout Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Tetragnathidae (Long-jawed Orb Weavers)
- Genus
- Tetragnatha (Longjawed Orbweavers)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on low growing vegetation, often near water or boggy areas.
Seasonal Activity
May to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
All the
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread throughout Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Tetragnatha extensa. 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 Tetragnatha extensa (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tetragnatha extensa
What is Tetragnatha extensa?
Tetragnatha extensa is a species in the family Tetragnathidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Tetragnatha extensa?
of up to 11 mm, while the male is slightly smaller, growing to around 9 mm. The body colour can vary from creamy-yellow to green.
Where is Tetragnatha extensa found?
Habitat: Found on low growing vegetation, often near water or boggy areas.
When is Tetragnatha extensa active?
Tetragnatha extensa: seasonal activity - May to September..
What is the life cycle of a Tetragnatha extensa?
All the