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

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Arachnida
• Order: Araneae
• Family: Cybaeidae

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

• Pest Control: Naturally control insect populations, aiding in ecosystem balance.
• Scientific Study: Serve as model organisms for studying web architecture and arachnid behavior.

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.