Eustala anastera
(Walckenaer, 1841)
Humpbacked Orbweaver
Eustala anastera, commonly known as the humpbacked orbweaver, is a small -weaving in the Araneidae. Females reach approximately 10 mm in body length, males 9.5 mm. The exhibits highly variable coloration, ranging from tan to vivid green, with many individuals displaying a foliate pattern. It is found across North and Central America and has been documented as a for the Caliadurgus hyalinatus. have been observed active during winter months in temperate regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eustala anastera: //juːˈstɑːlə əˈnæstərə//
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Identification
Distinguished from other small -weavers by combination of: highly variable green to tan coloration with foliate abdominal pattern; compact body with subtle humped profile; short on legs (especially males); small size under 10 mm. Similar to other Eustala but specific identification requires examination of . Distinguished from larger orb-weavers in same (Araneus, Neoscona) by smaller size and less build.
Images
Appearance
Small -weaver with pronounced in size. Females: ~10 mm body length; males: ~9.5 mm. () coloration highly variable, usually matching (). Color ranges from tan tones to vivid green. Many individuals possess a dark . Abdominal pattern often foliate (leaf-like). Legs covered in short , more prominent in males. Overall body form compact with characteristic 'humped' profile suggested by .
Habitat
-weaver found in varied terrestrial . Constructs webs in vegetation including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Documented from forest edges, open woodlands, and residential areas. In temperate regions, overwinter and become active on warm winter days. Not associated with specific plants or specialized microhabitats.
Distribution
North America and Central America. Records from United States (including Kansas, Ohio, New Jersey), Canada, and Middle America. GBIF distribution includes Brazil (Mato Grosso).
Seasonality
and active across multiple seasons. In temperate North America, juveniles observed active during winter on unseasonably warm days. Adults present during warmer months; specific peak activity periods not documented.
Host Associations
- Caliadurgus hyalinatus - that paralyzes E. anastera to provision nests for
Behavior
Constructs webs typical of Araneidae. observed active on warm winter days in temperate regions, suggesting in stages. No other specific behaviors documented.
Ecological Role
of flying captured in webs. Serves as for , particularly stages. Contributes to in varied terrestrial .
Human Relevance
Occasionally observed in residential areas and yards. No documented economic or medical significance. Subject of casual observation by naturalists and citizen scientists.
Similar Taxa
- Other Eustala speciesSimilar size range, color variation, and -weaving habit; require genital examination for definitive separation
- Araneus spp.Larger, more build; typically more distinct abdominal patterns and larger size
- Neoscona spp.Larger size, different abdominal shape, more web-building
More Details
Subspecies
Two recognized: Eustala anastera anastera (Walckenaer, 1841) and Eustala anastera vermiformis Franganillo, 1931
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Epeira anastera by Walckenaer in 1841 (or 1842 in some sources). Transferred to Eustala.