Tetragnatha obtusa
This record describes Tetragnatha obtusa (species). Recorded family: Tetragnathidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A well marked spider with a rather distinctive triangular shape to the body. Cephalic region of prosoma USUALLY darker than thoracic region. However there are other similar species, and Tetragnatha obtusa and T. nigrita can only reliably be separated by detailed microscopic examination. 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. This spider spins its orb webs on woodland trees especially in damper sites but is also found on heathland pines, and in parkland, churchyards and large well-planted gardens. Found from early to mid summer, occasionally into September. The species is locally common and is widespread in England and Wales but absent from much of Scotland.
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
This spider spins its orb webs on woodland trees especially in damper sites but is also found on heathland pines, and in parkland, churchyards and large well-planted gardens.
Seasonal Activity
Found from early to mid summer, occasionally into September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The species is locally common and is widespread in England and Wales but absent from much of Scotland.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Tetragnatha obtusa. 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 obtusa (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tetragnatha obtusa
What is Tetragnatha obtusa?
Tetragnatha obtusa is a species in the family Tetragnathidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Tetragnatha obtusa found?
Habitat: This spider spins its orb webs on woodland trees especially in damper sites but is also found on heathland pines, and in parkland, churchyards and large well-planted gardens.
When is Tetragnatha obtusa active?
Tetragnatha obtusa: seasonal activity - Found from early to mid summer, occasionally into September..