Centromerus sylvaticus
(Blackwall, 1841)
sheetweb spider, money spider
Centromerus sylvaticus is a small sheetweb spider in the Linyphiidae, commonly known as money spiders. The has a broad Holarctic distribution spanning North America, Europe, and Asia. measure 2.2–4 mm in body length. Two are recognized: the nominate C. s. sylvaticus and C. s. paucidentatus described from Bulgaria.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Centromerus sylvaticus: //ˌsɛn.trəˈmɛ.rəs sɪlˈvætɪkəs//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Centromerus by the combination of yellow-brown prosoma with dark margin, grey-black opisthosoma with bright transverse lines, and small size (under 4 mm). Specific identification requires examination of genitalia; the C. s. paucidentatus differs in cheliceral .
Images
Habitat
Forest and woodland ; the specific epithet 'sylvaticus' (of the woods) reflects its association with wooded environments. Constructs sheet webs typical of the .
Distribution
North America; Europe; Turkey; Russia (European part to Far East); China; Korea; Japan. Records include Poland, Sweden, and USA.
Behavior
Constructs sheet webs, a defining trait of Linyphiidae. Web architecture consists of horizontal sheet with threads above.
Similar Taxa
- Other Centromerus speciesSimilar small size and general linyphiid ; require genitalic examination for definitive separation
- Other LinyphiidaeMany money spiders share small size and sheet-web building ; color pattern of dark margin and transverse abdominal lines assists recognition
More Details
Subspecies
Two recognized: Centromerus sylvaticus sylvaticus (Blackwall, 1841) and Centromerus sylvaticus paucidentatus Deltshev, 1983