Ostearius melanopygius
(O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1880)
Black-tailed Ostearius
Ostearius melanopygius is a sheetweb spider in the Linyphiidae. It is notable for its exceptionally broad native and introduced distribution, spanning South America, parts of Africa, the Middle East, East Asia, and New Zealand, with established in Europe. The specific epithet 'melanopygius' refers to its dark-colored . It is one of the most widely distributed linyphiid spiders, suggesting strong capabilities.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ostearius melanopygius: //ɒsˈtɪə.ri.əs ˌmɛl.əˈnɒp.ɪ.dʒi.əs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The can be distinguished from other Ostearius by the dark coloration of the (referenced in its specific epithet 'melanopygius,' meaning 'black tail'). As a linyphiid, it possesses the characteristics of small body size and the construction of sheet-like webs, though specific diagnostic features separating it from are not well documented in available sources.
Images
Distribution
Native to South America; also recorded from the Canary Islands, Egypt, Turkey, South Africa, China, and New Zealand. Introduced and established in Europe. Specific island records include Faial, Flores, Graciosa, Pico, and São Jorge in the Azores archipelago.
Human Relevance
Its introduction to Europe represents a case of human-mediated range expansion. The is frequently documented through citizen science platforms, with over 800 observations recorded on iNaturalist, indicating its accessibility for public engagement in arachnology.
Similar Taxa
- Ostearius sp.Other in the Ostearius lack the distinctive dark abdominal coloration that characterizes O. melanopygius.