Oecobius putus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Oecobiidae
Genus: Oecobius
Species: putus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Oecobius putus: /ˌiːkəˈbaɪəs ˈpjuːtəs/

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Images

Oecobius putus by G. Blagoev, Centre for Biodiversity Genomics. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Oecobius putus epigyne by G. Blagoev, Centre for Biodiversity Genomics. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Summary

Oecobius putus is a small spider that constructs flat webs predominantly in wall crevices, feeding mainly on small prey like ants. It has a broad geographical distribution, particularly in urban settings, and is recognized as a synanthropic species. It is part of a genus with multiple species known for their unique silk production methods.

Physical Characteristics

These are small spiders that make small flat webs, typically over crevices in walls and similar spaces. They are cribellate spiders, producing silk that emerges in a bundle of fine, parallel fibers with no adhesive.

Identification Tips

Distinguished by their small size and the absence of adhesive in their silk, which results in a woolly appearance when webs are formed.

Habitat

Commonly found in domestic and urban environments, especially in wall crevices.

Distribution

Native to regions from Egypt and Sudan to Iran, Azerbaijan, and India; introduced to the USA, Mexico, and parts of North America including southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Sonora, Chihuahua, and Baja California.

Diet

Primarily feeds on small insects such as ants, which are caught in their silken webs.

Life Cycle

Detailed information on the life cycle is lacking, but, like most spiders, they undergo egg, juvenile, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Not detailed in the provided data.

Predators

Not specified in the provided data.

Conservation Status

Not assessed, appears to thrive in a synanthropic environment.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a predator of small insects, particularly ants, contributing to pest control in their habitats.

Economic Impact

Not specifically mentioned, but may contribute to biological control of household pests.

Cultural Significance

Not mentioned in the provided data.

Health Concerns