True Spiders

Araneomorphae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Araneomorphae: /ˌærənɪəˈmɔrfiː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Hentz Plate 20 (cropped) by James Henry Emerton . Used under a Public domain license.
Common Spiders U.S. 221 by James Henry Emerton (1847 – 1931). Used under a Public domain license.
Agelenopsis P1040557a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Agelenopsis P1000231a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Hentz Plate 20 by James Henry Emerton . Used under a Public domain license.
Agelenopsis oklahoma 3 by Royal British Columbia Museum. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Summary

Araneomorphae, also known as true spiders, is an infraorder comprising the vast majority of spider species, recognized by their unique fang structure and ecological versatility.

Physical Characteristics

Fangs that point diagonally forward and cross in a pinching action; one pair of book lungs (when present); smaller body size compared to Mygalomorphae.

Identification Tips

Distinguished from Mygalomorphae by the orientation of the fangs and the number of book lungs.

Habitat

Extremely wide range of habitats, including homes, gardens, and various natural environments.

Distribution

Worldwide, comprising about 93% of all spider species with approximately 38,500 species in 3450 genera.

Diet

Primarily insectivorous, using various methods to capture prey, including web building and active hunting.

Life Cycle

Females typically live for about one year, with variations among species.

Reproduction

Reproductive strategies can vary, generally involving direct mating and egg-laying.

Predators

Birds, small mammals, other spiders, and larger predatory insects.

Ecosystem Role

Important role in controlling insect populations and participating in food webs as both predator and prey.

Cultural Significance

Includes many familiar spider species like web-weavers and jumping spiders that have ecological importance and are often featured in cultural references.

Collecting Methods

  • Visual observation
  • Capture with nets
  • Cupping or trapping techniques

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Drying
  • Mounting on pins

Evolution

The Araneomorphae are a derived group of spiders, showing significant structural and ecological diversity compared to their ancestors.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often confused with Mygalomorphae; true spiders are much more diverse and occupy various habitats compared to the more limited mygalomorphs.

Tags

  • Araneae
  • spiders
  • biodiversity
  • ecology