Antmimics and Ground Sac Spiders
Corinnidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Corinnidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Corinnidae: //kəˈrɪn.ɪˌdiː//
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Images
Summary
Corinnidae, commonly known as antmimics and ground sac spiders, is a family of araneomorph spiders recognized for their mimicry of ants, typical small size, and unique eye arrangement. They construct silk retreats and are effective predators of small insects, adapting to various terrestrial habitats worldwide.
Physical Characteristics
Members of the family Corinnidae typically possess eight eyes arranged in two rows, and conical anterior spinnerets that are touching. They are generally small, wandering predators that can be recognized by their sac-like retreats made of silk, often found on plant terminals, under bark, or under rocks.
Identification Tips
To identify members of the Corinnidae family, look for their unique eye arrangement and conical spinnerets. Species in the genus Castianeira often mimic ants and can be visually distinguished from other spiders by their resemblance to these insects.
Habitat
Corinnidae spiders inhabit various environments, often constructing their silk sacs on plant terminals, underneath leaves, bark, or rocks. They are typically found in terrestrial habitats.
Distribution
The family Corinnidae is distributed worldwide, with specific genera such as Castianeira and Myrmecotypus found across North America, particularly in the US and Canada.
Diet
Corinnidae spiders are predominantly wandering predators, preying on small insects, and their diet includes ants, given some species mimic them.
Life Cycle
Details on the life cycle of Corinnidae haven’t been specified but, like many spiders, they undergo egg, juvenile, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Information on the reproduction of Corinnidae is not detailed, but it typically involves males courting females, followed by the female laying eggs in a silk sac.
Ecosystem Role
Corinnidae spiders play a role as predators, helping to control insect populations, and some species also contribute to pollination while foraging.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collecting
- Standing searches under rocks
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying samples
Evolution
The taxonomic history of Corinnidae is complex, having originally been part of the broader family Clubionidae before being reclassified. The family now includes subfamilies Corinninae and Castianeirinae as well as over 800 species worldwide.
Similar Taxa
- Phrurolithidae
- Trachelidae
- Myrmecium
- Mazax
- Myrmecotypus
Misconceptions
There may be a misconception that all sac spiders are venomous to humans; while some can bite, they are not typically aggressive and do not pose significant health risks.
Tags
- Corinnidae
- spiders
- araneomorph
- mimicry
- predators