Theridion melanurum
This record describes Theridion melanurum (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A small spider at around 3 mm. The species is quite variable and the zig-zag band of the abdomen can be white or barely visible. The head is dark and quite shiny. T. melanurum is usually found on buildings and around habitation. Widespread and fairly frequent in England but less common elsewhere in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Theridiidae (Cobweb Spiders)
- Genus
- Theridion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
T. melanurum
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England but less common elsewhere in Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Theridion melanurum. 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 Theridion melanurum (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Theridion melanurum
What is Theridion melanurum?
Theridion melanurum is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Theridion melanurum found?
Habitat: T. melanurum
When is Theridion melanurum active?
Theridion melanurum: seasonal activity - All year round..