Turf Running-spider
Philodromus cespitum
This record describes Philodromus cespitum (species). Recorded family: Philodromidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
The appearance of this species is less crab-like than the Xysticus , with a narrower head and body and the legs are of a more even thickness. Markings are variable so care has to be taken with identification. Confirmation of this species: Requires examination at high magnification in good lighting, typically examination of the genitalia. Bee, L., Oxford, G., & Smith, H. (2020). Britain's Spiders: A Field Guide. Second Edition. Princeton University Press. Spring to autumn but peaking May to July. It is an agile hunter and feeds on small insects such as flies Common and widespread over much of Britain
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Philodromidae (Running Crab Spiders)
- Genus
- Philodromus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Amongst low vegetation
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn but peaking May to July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is an agile hunter and feeds on small insects such as flies
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread over much of Britain
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Philodromus cespitum. 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 Turf Running-spider (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Turf Running-spider
What is Turf Running-spider?
Turf Running-spider (Philodromus cespitum) is a species in the family Philodromidae, within the order Araneae.
Where is Turf Running-spider found?
Habitat: Amongst low vegetation
When is Turf Running-spider active?
Turf Running-spider: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn but peaking May to July..
What is the life cycle of a Turf Running-spider?
It is an agile hunter and feeds on small insects such as flies