Cross Spider

Araneus diadematus

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Araneus diadematus: /ˌærəˈniːəs ˌdaɪəˈdeɪmətəs/

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Images

Summary

Araneus diadematus, commonly known as the Cross Spider or European Garden Spider, is an orb-weaver spider characterized by a distinctive cross pattern on its abdomen. It has been introduced to North America from Europe and thrives in gardens as well as natural scrubby habitats.

Physical Characteristics

Body length adult female: 6-20mm; Body length adult male: 6-13mm. Colorings can range from light yellow to dark grey; all have mottled white markings forming a cross on the dorsal abdomen.

Identification Tips

The dorsal white cross on the abdomen is diagnostic. Variations exist that do not have the cross, which may be confused with A. gemma.

Habitat

Common in gardens; prefers scrubby heathland or areas with gorse.

Distribution

Holarctic distribution throughout Europe and North America, from southern Canada to Mexico, and from British Columbia to Newfoundland.

Diet

Primarily insects, captured using orb webs. Also engages in cannibalism, particularly during mating.

Life Cycle

Males reach sexual maturity before females and often pair with immature females. Females can eat males after mating. Spiderlings emerge from eggs after being laid in an egg sac.

Reproduction

Females can eat males after mating; males often seek immature females for pairing.

Predators

Larger predatory animals, birds, and potentially other spiders.

Ecosystem Role

Helps control insect populations as a predator in gardens and scrublands.

Health Concerns

Only bites humans when provoked or cornered; typically non-aggressive.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collection
  • Sweep netting

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Pinning

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

The name 'pumpkin spider' may cause confusion as it refers to a different species, Araneus marmoreus.

Tags

  • Araneidae
  • orb-weaver
  • European garden spider
  • North American introduction