Zygiella atrica
This record describes Zygiella atrica (species). Recorded family: Araneidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Size female about 6.5 mm, male smaller about 4 mm. Most (but not all) specimens have more red-brown colouration than Zygiella x-notata , but the species need to be separated by an expert for identification purposes. Very difficult to distinguish from Z. atrica . Specimens found on window frames or car door mirrors are unlikely to be Z. atrica (but it's not impossible), but those from vegetation could be either. Zygiella x-notata and Zygiella atrica need to be separated by an expert for identification purposes. Please state where the specimen was found when submitting a record. Please state where the specimen was found when submitting a record. Confirmation of this species require examination of the genitals of mature specimens. Please state where the specimen was found when submitting a record. Confirmation of this species require examination of the genitals of mature specimens. Vegetation and sometimes gardens. Unlike Z. X-notata , this spider is usually found a little way away from houses and human habitation, on bushes and rocks. Female can be seen all year round. The male is more likely to be encountered during the summer. Zygiella atrica , like other Zygiella species, builds an orb web with two missing sectors and a signaling thread in the centre of those, leading to its hideout, whereas the young spiders build a complete web. Females of this species are among the few British orb-weavers to build webs all year round. Common and widespread throughout Britain. 2,436 British records for this species to 2015.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Vegetation and sometimes gardens. Unlike
Seasonal Activity
Female can be seen all year round. The male is more likely to be encountered during the summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Zygiella atrica
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread throughout Britain.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Zygiella atrica. 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 Zygiella atrica (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Zygiella atrica
What is Zygiella atrica?
Zygiella atrica is a species in the family Araneidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is Zygiella atrica?
female about 6.5 mm, male smaller about 4 mm. Most (but not all) specimens have more red-brown colouration than
How do you identify Zygiella atrica?
purposes. Please state where the specimen was found when submitting a record.
Where is Zygiella atrica found?
Habitat: Vegetation and sometimes gardens. Unlike
When is Zygiella atrica active?
Zygiella atrica: seasonal activity - Female can be seen all year round. The male is more likely to be encountered during the summer..
What is the life cycle of a Zygiella atrica?
Zygiella atrica