Ghost Spiders
Anyphaenidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Anyphaenidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Anyphaenidae: //æ.nɪˈfiː.nɪˌdeɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Anyphaenidae, known as ghost spiders, is a family of araneomorph spiders with various species that are important predators in several ecosystems, especially agricultural environments. They exhibit unique anatomical features that distinguish them from similar families.
Physical Characteristics
Size: 3.0-8.5 mm. Distinguished by two rows of club-shaped hairs on the bottoms of their feet, and abdominal spiracle situated one third to one half of the way anterior to the spinnerets.
Identification Tips
Similar in appearance to sac spiders but can be identified by the presence of specific hairs on their feet and the unique placement of their spiracles.
Habitat
Build silken retreats or sacs usually on plant terminals, between leaves, under bark, or under rocks.
Distribution
Widespread worldwide; common genera include Anyphaena (absent in tropical Africa and Asia) and Hibana (found in the New World).
Diet
Wandering predators that primarily feed on insect eggs.
Ecosystem Role
Important predators in agricultural systems, especially tree crops.
Economic Impact
Species in the Hibana genus are important predators in agricultural systems, aiding in pest control by feeding on insect eggs.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often confused with sac spiders due to similarities in appearance and behavior.
Tags
- Spider
- Arachnid
- Anyphaenidae
- Ghost Spider
- Agricultural Predator