Theridion varians
This record describes Theridion varians (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
A small variable species. The abdomen is usually a pale green, and often brightly patterned with red, but some individuals show very little red in the pattern. Makes a small tangled web amongst foliage. Common and widespread throughout Britain, fewer records from Wales and the south west.
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
Trees, bushes and fences.
Seasonal Activity
Summer - peak May to July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Makes a small tangled web amongst foliage.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread throughout Britain, fewer records from Wales and the south west.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Theridion varians. 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 varians (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Theridion varians
What is Theridion varians?
Theridion varians is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Theridion varians found?
Habitat: Trees, bushes and fences.
When is Theridion varians active?
Theridion varians: seasonal activity - Summer - peak May to July..
What is the life cycle of a Theridion varians?
Makes a small tangled web amongst foliage.