Cybaeidae

Common Name

Mesh web weavers

Overview

Cybaeidae, commonly known as mesh web weavers, is a family of spiders known for their distinctive orb-shaped webs that resemble a mesh or sheet. These spiders are generally found in moist environments, such as near streams, under rocks, and in leaf litter.

Taxonomy

Key Characteristics

  • Web Structure: Orb-shaped, mesh-like webs.
  • Size: Small to medium-sized, typically ranging from 3 to 10 mm.
  • Coloration: Generally brown or grey, providing camouflage in their natural habitats.
  • Eyes: Eight eyes arranged in two rows.
  • Legs: Long and slender, adapted for climbing and web construction.
  • Chelicerae: Strong and robust for capturing prey.

Life Cycle

  • Eggs: Laid in cocoons within the web or hidden in safe places.
  • Spiderlings: Hatch and disperse, usually building small webs nearby.
  • Maturity: Spiders grow through a series of molts before reaching adulthood.
  • Reproduction: Females attract mates via pheromones and engage in complex mating rituals.

Behavior and Ecology

  • Habitat: Prefer moist, dark environments such as forest floors, caves, and near water bodies.
  • Diet: Primarily insectivorous, feeding on various small invertebrates.
  • Activity: Mostly nocturnal, actively hunting and repairing webs at night.
  • Predation: Predators include birds, larger spiders, and small mammals.

Notable Species

  • Cybaeus signifer: A common species in North America, known for its wide distribution in forested areas.
  • Cybaeus giganteus: Notable for its relatively large size within the family.

Conservation

  • Status: Generally not of concern; some species may be locally threatened due to habitat loss.
  • Protection Efforts: Maintaining wetland and forest habitats is crucial for their survival.

Significance to Humans

Fun Facts

  • Web Diversity: Despite being called mesh web weavers, their web designs can vary greatly among species.
  • Hunting Tactics: Some species are ambush predators, foregoing web building altogether.
  • Longevity: Certain species of Cybaeidae can live for several years, which is relatively long for spiders.
  • Camouflage: Their cryptic coloration helps them blend seamlessly into their environments, making them hard to spot.
  • Silent Communicators: Use vibrations and pheromones to communicate, especially during mating season.