Platnickina tincta
This record describes Platnickina tincta (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Small (2.5 to 3.5 mm). Even though this small spider is quite distinctively marked, accurate identification is difficult without detailed examination. If we cannot be certain that an image is Platnickina tincta but it is likely to be this species, it is highlighted in a red box Most of the year but peak time is from May to July. Fairly frequent and widespread in England.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Theridiidae (Cobweb Spiders)
- Genus
- Platnickina
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats including woodland.
Seasonal Activity
Most of the year but peak time is from May to July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread in England.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Platnickina tincta. 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 Platnickina tincta (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Platnickina tincta
What is Platnickina tincta?
Platnickina tincta is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
How do you identify Platnickina tincta?
is difficult without detailed examination. If we cannot be certain that an image is Platnickina tincta but it is likely to be this species, it is highlighted in a red box
Where is Platnickina tincta found?
Habitat: Various habitats including woodland.
When is Platnickina tincta active?
Platnickina tincta: seasonal activity - Most of the year but peak time is from May to July..