Tetragnatha montana
This record describes Tetragnatha montana (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. montana but it is likely to be this species, it is highlighted in a red box. 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. Orb webs of this species are found on trees, bushes and low vegetation in a variety of habitats, mostly at low altitudes. It may be found close to water but is less closely associated with wetland habitats than T. extensa. All the Tetragnatha species 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. Very common and widespread in southern Britain, becoming scattered in the north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Tetragnathidae
- Genus
- Tetragnatha
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Orb webs of this species are found on trees, bushes and low vegetation in a variety of habitats, mostly at low altitudes. It may be found close to water but is less closely associated with wetland habitats than T. extensa.
Seasonal Activity
March to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
All the Tetragnatha species 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.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Very common and widespread in southern Britain, becoming scattered in the north.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Tetragnatha montana. 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 montana (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tetragnatha montana
What is Tetragnatha montana?
Tetragnatha montana is a species in the family Tetragnathidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Tetragnatha montana found?
Habitat: Orb webs of this species are found on trees, bushes and low vegetation in a variety of habitats, mostly at low altitudes. It may be found close to water but is less closely associated with wetland habitats than T. extensa.
When is Tetragnatha montana active?
Tetragnatha montana: seasonal activity - March to September..
What is the life cycle of a Tetragnatha montana?
All the Tetragnatha species 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.