Hololena nedra
Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942
Hololena nedra is a of funnel-web weaver spider in the Agelenidae, found in the United States. Like other members of its , it constructs flat, sheet-like webs with a funnel-shaped retreat. The species is one of approximately thirty recognized in the genus Hololena, which is restricted to the western third of North America and is in need of taxonomic revision.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hololena nedra: //ˌhoʊloʊˈliːnə ˈnɛdrə//
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Identification
Hololena are distinguished from the related Agelenopsis by their short , which are often directed somewhat inward toward each other rather than held parallel. Agelenopsis and Calilena have long spinnerets. Hololena nedra is medium-sized; mature females of the genus range 9–12 mm in body length, males 8–9 mm. Coloration follows the typical funnel-web weaver pattern: two parallel or converging dark stripes on a pale , a central reddish or brownish band on the often bordered by pale wavy lines, and annulated legs with alternating light and dark bands. Definitive identification to species requires microscopic examination of genitalia.
Habitat
Constructs webs in vegetation such as hedges, gardens, and yards. Webs are built on vegetation or structures, often at heights where they can intercept flying insects. Juveniles and mature males wander away from webs and may enter buildings.
Distribution
United States. The Hololena is restricted to the western third of the U.S., from Washington and Idaho south to southern California and New Mexico.
Seasonality
Mature males actively seek mates from late summer through fall, with observations extending into late October. Activity likely continues until cold weather arrives.
Diet
Feeds on insects captured in its web. Flying insects are intercepted by a tangle of threads above the sheet web, knocked onto the platform, and subdued by the spider.
Life Cycle
sacs are produced by mated females; spiderlings likely overwinter within silk insulation. Juveniles and males disperse from maternal webs.
Behavior
Constructs thick, flat, hammock- or bowl-shaped webs with a non-sticky sheet and funnel-like retreat in one corner. The spider waits in the retreat and dashes out immediately upon sensing vibrations to subdue prey, then drags it back to feed. Males approach females cautiously, bouncing legs and on the web to create 1–6 vibrations. Receptive females enter cataleptic paralysis, drawing in legs; males then grasp the female's hind legs and drag her into the retreat for mating. Males insert palps alternately, pumping sperm repeatedly. Females usually offer no resistance, though they may recover prematurely and chase males away.
Ecological Role
of flying and crawling insects; may contribute to local pest control in gardens and near human structures.
Human Relevance
Occasionally enters buildings, where it may startle occupants but poses minimal risk. Confirmed bites are rare; documented cases involved mild to moderate including headache and vomiting lasting several hours, with full recovery without medical treatment. Not considered medically significant.
Similar Taxa
- AgelenopsisLarger body size (10–20 mm vs. 9–12 mm in Hololena females) and long held parallel rather than short, inward-directed spinnerets. Both share similar color patterns and web architecture.
- CalilenaAlso possesses long held parallel, distinguishing it from Hololena's short, convergent spinnerets.