Neoscona crucifera

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Neoscona crucifera: //niːˈɒskə.nə ˌkruːsɪˈfɛrə//

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Summary

Neoscona crucifera, commonly known as the Hentz orbweaver or barn spider, is a significant orb-weaver spider found widely in North America, identified by its distinctive coloration and large webs.

Physical Characteristics

Females are about 9.5–19 mm (0.37–0.75 in) long, while males are smaller at 5–15 mm. The upper surface of the abdomen is brown and hairy, with rusty red or golden orange coloration being most common. The legs display alternating light and dark brown bands. The undersurface of the abdomen is black, marked with two white spots.

Identification Tips

Can usually be distinguished from Neoscona domiciliorum by rusty red color and lack of pattern on the abdomen.

Habitat

Found in various habitats including man-made structures, often constructing webs several feet above ground, particularly near outdoor lights.

Distribution

Found in the eastern United States from Maine to Florida, and from Minnesota to Arizona in the southwest, including southern California coastal communities and in Mexico.

Diet

Insects caught in their orb-shaped web, which they construct from silk.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid in a fluffy yellow threads in a rolled leaf, with an egg mass measuring 5–12 mm in diameter containing up to 1,000 eggs.

Reproduction

Mating occurs in the spring or summer, and females often produce a large number of eggs in a single egg sac.

Predators

Juveniles are frequently preyed upon by mud daubers.

Ecosystem Role

As a spider, it plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

Cultural Significance

Commonly referred to as barn spider, but this name is also used for a different species, Araneus cavaticus.

Health Concerns

Might bite if provoked, but its venom is not dangerous to humans.

Misconceptions

The name 'barn spider' can refer to multiple species, leading to confusion.

Tags

• Arachnology
• Spider
• Neoscona crucifera
• Orb-weaver
• Hentz orbweaver
• Barn spider