Filistatidae

Common Name

Crevice Weavers

Overview

Filistatidae, commonly known as crevice weavers, is a family of spiders found in various parts of the world. These spiders are called crevice weavers because they often construct their webs in narrow spaces like crevices and cracks in rocks, walls, and bark.

Taxonomy

  • Order : Araneae
  • Infraorder : Araneomorphae
  • Superfamily : Filistatoidea
  • Family : Filistatidae

Key Characteristics

  • Physical Appearance : These spiders typically have a flattened body and are often brown or gray in color.
  • Web Structure : The webs are non-sticky but can be extensive, resembling a messy sheet or tangle web.
  • Eyes : They usually have eight eyes arranged in two rows.

Life Cycle

  • Eggs : Female lays eggs in secluded areas.
  • Spiderlings : Hatch from the eggs and undergo several molts before reaching adulthood.
  • Adults : Continue to build webs and reproduce.

Behavior and Ecology

  • Habitat : Prefer hiding in tight spaces like crevices, which provide protection and concealment.
  • Diet : Insectivorous, feeding primarily on insects that get caught in their web.
  • Behavior : Generally nocturnal, emerging from their hiding spaces at night to hunt.

Notable Species

  • Kukulcania hibernalis : Commonly known as the Southern House Spider, found in the southeastern United States.
  • Filistata insidiatrix : Found in the Mediterranean region and is one of the more well-known species within this family.

Conservation

Most species within this family are not currently considered at risk. Their reclusive nature often reduces direct threats from humans, although habitat destruction can impact local populations.

Significance to Humans

  • Pest Control : They help control insect populations, which can be beneficial in both natural and human-altered environments.
  • Medical Importance : Not known to be harmful to humans as their bites are relatively harmless.

Fun Facts

  • Common Name Origin : The name "crevice weaver" comes from their habit of living in narrow spaces.
  • Web Strength : Their webs, though not sticky, are quite strong and can effectively trap insects.
  • Active at Night : Most species are primarily nocturnal, which helps them avoid many daytime predators.
  • Distinctive Look : Often identified by their distinctive flat body and large number of eyes.