Mangora placida

(Hentz, 1847)

Tuft-legged Orbweaver

Mangora placida is a small orb-weaving spider in the Araneidae, commonly known as the Tuft-legged Orbweaver. It is found across North America, with records from Canada through the United States. The is notable for the tufted projections on its legs, a distinctive feature referenced in its . Juveniles and build vertical orb webs to capture flying insects.

Mangora placida by (c) christine123, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by christine123. Used under a CC-BY license.Mangora placida by (c) John P Friel, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by John P Friel. Used under a CC-BY license.Mangora placida by (c) John P Friel, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by John P Friel. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mangora placida: /mæŋˈɡɔːrə ˈplæsɪdə/

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Identification

Mangora placida can be distinguished from other Mangora by the presence of distinct tuft-like projections on the legs. It builds a vertical orb web, which separates it from the Orchard Orbweaver (Leucauge venusta) that constructs horizontal orb webs. The species may be confused with other small Araneidae, but the leg tufts are diagnostic.

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Habitat

Found in a variety of including woodlands, gardens, and residential areas. Builds webs in vegetation, with juveniles often constructing webs closer to the ground and placing them higher in shrubs and bushes.

Distribution

North America, including Canada (Alberta, Manitoba) and the United States. Records extend across much of the continent.

Seasonality

are most abundant in late spring and early summer. Individuals overwinter as sub-adults, hiding in leaf litter and under loose bark.

Diet

Feeds on flying insects captured in its orb web, including small flies, gnats, and other aerial arthropods.

Life Cycle

Overwinters as sub-. Matures in spring and early summer, with adults present during this period. sacs are produced during the adult stage.

Behavior

Constructs and maintains a vertical orb web. When threatened, drops from the web to the ground and seeks in leaf litter. Web is typically removed and rebuilt regularly.

Ecological Role

of small flying insects; contributes to regulation of of aerial arthropods in its .

Human Relevance

Generally harmless to humans. Occasionally encountered in gardens and residential areas where its webs may be noticed. Not considered a pest .

Similar Taxa

  • Leucauge venusta (Orchard Orbweaver)Builds horizontal orb webs rather than vertical ones; lacks leg tufts; has more elaborate color pattern with green legs.
  • Other Mangora speciesMay be distinguished by the presence or absence of leg tufts and specific abdominal patterning.

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