Trabeops aurantiacus
This record describes Trabeops aurantiacus (species). Recorded family: Lycosidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
The large posterior median eyes protrude from the face very noticeably. The posterior lateral eyes are spread far apart and also protrude noticeably. The legs are yellow to dark orange. In males, the front femurs are black. In females, the front femurs, patellae, and tibiae are darkened or black. The abdomen is dull orange or yellow, sometimes with chevrons and/or a pale heart mark. All this info taken from Dondale & Redner 1990.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Though easily overlooked due to its size, this species is fairly widespread and common across the eastern United States, with museum records noted from New England to Florida, and west to Wisconsin and Texas (†) .[jb]
Seasonal Activity
Adults of both sexes have been collected from May to August.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Trabeops aurantiacus. 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 Trabeops aurantiacus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jay Barnes; Additional contributions by Lynette Elliott , Mandy Howe
Frequently Asked Questions About Trabeops aurantiacus
What is Trabeops aurantiacus?
Trabeops aurantiacus is a species in the family Lycosidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Trabeops aurantiacus?
total body length 5mm or less (these are very small wolf spiders)
How do you identify Trabeops aurantiacus?
The large posterior median eyes protrude from the face very noticeably. The posterior lateral eyes are spread far apart and also protrude noticeably. The legs are yellow to dark orange. In males, the front femurs are black. In females, the front femurs, patellae, and tibiae are darkened or black. The abdomen is dull orange or yellow, sometimes with chevrons and/or a pale heart mark. All this info taken from Dondale & Redner 1990.
Where is Trabeops aurantiacus found?
Range: Though easily overlooked due to its size, this species is fairly widespread and common across the eastern United States, with museum records noted from New England to Florida, and west to Wisconsin and Texas (†) .[jb]
When is Trabeops aurantiacus active?
Trabeops aurantiacus: seasonal activity - Adults of both sexes have been collected from May to August..