Symphytognathidae

Common Name

Micro orb-weavers

Overview

Symphytognathidae, commonly known as micro orb-weavers, are a family of extremely small spiders, some of the smallest known in the arachnid world. These spiders can be found in various habitats ranging from tropical rainforests to temperate regions.

Taxonomy

Key Characteristics

  • Size : Typically less than 1 mm in body length.
  • Coloration : Often brown or yellowish.
  • Webs : Construct tiny orb webs, sometimes with irregular radii.
  • Anatomy : Simplified genital structures, presence of two tracheae, and a reduced number of eyes (most have six instead of the usual eight).

Life Cycle

  • Egg : Females lay tiny, often inconspicuous eggs in silk sacs.
  • Spiderling : After hatching, the spiderlings disperse and begin creating their own miniature orb webs.
  • Adult : Mature spiders engage in their own web building, foraging, and reproduction.

Behavior and Ecology

Micro orb-weavers are predators, chiefly preying on other very small arthropods. They create diminutive orb webs to ensnare their prey and often live in leaf litter or under bark where their webs can remain largely undisturbed.

Notable Species

  • Symphytognatha globosa : One of the first described species, notable for its globe-like abdomen and minuscule size.

Conservation

Due to their tiny size and often obscure habitats, much about the conservation status of many Symphytognathidae species remains unknown. Their habitats should be preserved to maintain biodiversity.

Significance to Humans

While Symphytognathidae spiders do not have a direct impact on humans, they play a role in controlling populations of small arthropods and contribute to the ecological balance in their habitats.

Fun Facts

  • Symphytognathidae spiders are some of the smallest known members of the spider family.
  • They were first described scientifically in 1921.
  • Due to their size, they can be incredibly difficult to find and study in the wild.
  • Some species have been discovered living inside bromeliads, contributing to the microfauna ecosystem within these plants.