Trematocephalus cristatus
This record describes Trematocephalus cristatus (species). Recorded family: Linyphiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Length: 2.0 to 2.6 mm. Legs red-orange. Opisthosoma black-grey. Prosoma red-orange, with black eye region and median spot. Males seem to have a hole in their heads. This is actually a projection forward from the prosoma (carapace) which rests in a groove in the tip of the head, giving the appearance of a hole when viewed from the side (trema is ancient Greek for aperture). Microscopic examination of genitalia is required to confirm identity. On the foliage of trees and bushes, especially Oak, Birch and Gorse, in woodland, heaths, gardens, parks, etc. Local. This species was formerly confined to a small area in the south east but has recently expanded to other parts of the country. https://srs.britishspiders.org.uk/portal.php/p/Summary/s/Trematocephalus+cristatus No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Linyphiidae
- Genus
- Trematocephalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On the foliage of trees and bushes, especially Oak, Birch and Gorse, in woodland, heaths, gardens, parks, etc.
Seasonal Activity
Spring-Summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
NatureSpot
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Trematocephalus cristatus. 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 Trematocephalus cristatus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Trematocephalus cristatus
What is Trematocephalus cristatus?
Trematocephalus cristatus is a species in the family Linyphiidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Trematocephalus cristatus?
2.0 to 2.6 mm. Legs red-orange. Opisthosoma black-grey. Prosoma red-orange, with black eye region and median spot. Males seem to have a hole in their heads. This is actually a projection forward from the prosoma (carapace) which rests in a groove in the tip of the head, giving the appearance of a hole when viewed from the side (trema is ancient Greek for aperture).
Where is Trematocephalus cristatus found?
Habitat: On the foliage of trees and bushes, especially Oak, Birch and Gorse, in woodland, heaths, gardens, parks, etc.
When is Trematocephalus cristatus active?
Trematocephalus cristatus: seasonal activity - Spring-Summer..