Eratigena

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Agelenidae
Subfamily: Ageleninae
Genus: Eratigena

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eratigena: /ˌɛrəˈtɪdʒəˌnæ/

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Images

Summary

Eratigena is a genus of funnel weaver spiders that includes species previously classified under the genus Tegenaria. The recognition of multiple species within the group, particularly in North America, has been clarified through recent taxonomic revisions.

Physical Characteristics

Eratigena species can be recognized by their lack of banded patterning on the legs; E. duellica generally has a darker color palette and longer legs than E. agrestis, which has a lighter color palette.

Identification Tips

E. atrica and E. duellica are largely similar in appearance and can usually be separated by their geographic ranges. Careful examination of leg length, coloration, and patterning can assist in identification.

Habitat

Found in a variety of habitats; can often be located in and around human dwellings.

Distribution

Eratigena species are distributed across North America (north of Mexico) and Europe. Specific ranges include E. agrestis (Europe to Central Asia, introduced to parts of the USA and Canada), E. atrica (Europe, introduced to parts of Canada and the USA), and E. duellica (Canada, USA, Europe).

Diet

Eratigena species primarily feed on insects and other small invertebrates, which they capture in their funnel-shaped webs.

Life Cycle

Information on the specific life cycle of Eratigena species is limited; generally, funnel weavers undergo conventional arachnid development including egg, juvenile, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Eratigena species reproduce sexually, and hybridization has been observed between E. duellica and E. saeva.

Ecosystem Role

Eratigena species play an important role in controlling insect populations within their ecosystems.

Cultural Significance

The common name 'giant house spider' relates to their frequent presence in human dwellings, which can influence perceptions of spiders in general.

Collecting Methods

Sweep netting in appropriate habitats
Hand collecting during active hours

Preservation Methods

Ethanol storage
Pinning specimens for display

Evolution

Eratigena was recognized as a separate genus from Tegenaria in 2013, following taxonomic revisions based on morphological and genetic analyses.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Many individuals confuse Eratigena species with Tegenaria species due to historical classification and similar appearances; some may also incorrectly believe all large house spiders are harmful.