Spotted Orbweavers
Neoscona
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Araneidae
- Genus: Neoscona
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Neoscona: /niˈɑskɒnə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Neoscona, or spotted orb-weavers, is a genus of orb-weaver spiders characterized by their diverse patterns and coloration, distinctive carapace structure, and wide distribution. They play a vital ecological role as pest regulators and are present in various environments.
Physical Characteristics
Neoscona species vary greatly in dorsal patterns and coloration of the abdomen, often exhibiting light coloration with wavy edges along the mid-line and darker swirls on either side. The ventral abdomen typically features a dark area bordered by white, roughly forming a square. They have a distinctive dorsal groove on the carapace parallel to the body's long axis, distinguishing them from the Araneus genus.
Identification Tips
To distinguish Neoscona from closely related genus Araneus, examine the carapace for a dorsal groove which is parallel to the body’s long axis; Araneus has transverse or angular grooves.
Habitat
Neoscona species are commonly found in various habitats including gardens, fields, and woodlands, often constructing webs in vegetation.
Distribution
Neoscona has a mostly pantropical distribution, with some species (e.g., N. adianta) found in the Palearctic region. Eight species are documented in the USA and Canada.
Diet
As a genus of orb-weaver spiders, Neoscona primarily preys on insects which they capture in their webs.
Life Cycle
Details about the specific life cycles of Neoscona species are not provided, but general orb-weaver life cycles involve egg laying, hatching, and multiple molts before reaching maturity.
Reproduction
Neoscona species reproduce sexually, and males typically display unique courtship behaviors before mating with females. Species-specific details are not provided.
Predators
Wasp species in the subfamily Pimplinae may prey on Neoscona spiders.
Ecosystem Role
As important predators of insects, Neoscona species regulate insect populations in their respective ecosystems.
Cultural Significance
Known as barn spiders, Neoscona species are often studied and appreciated for their web-building skills and their role in controlling pest populations. They may also have significance in folklore.
Collecting Methods
- Manual collection from webs
- Using insect nets to capture individuals
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinning for morphological study
Evolution
Neoscona was established as a distinct genus by Eugène Simon in 1864, separating it from other webs in the obsolete genus Epeira. Its evolution includes adaptation to various habitats and ecological niches globally.
Similar Taxa
- Araneus
- Epeira
Misconceptions
Some species are commonly confused with Araneus, which can lead to misidentification without careful examination.
Tags
- spiders
- Neoscona
- orb-weavers
- arachnology
- wildlife
- North America