Philodromus vulgaris

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Philodromidae
Genus: Philodromus
Species: vulgaris

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Philodromus vulgaris: /ˌfɪloʊˈdroʊməs vʊlˈɡɛərɪs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Common Spiders U.S. 101-4 by James Henry Emerton (1847 – 1931). Used under a Public domain license.

IIICLMO by Unspecified. Used under a CC0 license.

Arachtober 29 -3, Running Crab Spider - Philodromus vulgaris?, Julie Metz Wetlands, Woodbridge, Virginia (37973912442) by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

Philodromus vulgaris, or the longlegged crab spider, is a species of spider prevalent in Canada and the eastern United States, characterized by its considerable size differences between genders and distinctive appearance.

Physical Characteristics

Females up to 8 mm in size; Males up to 6.5 mm. Notable for their hairy legs and distinct patterns.

Identification Tips

Look for the body shape and the hairy legs characteristic of the longlegged crab spider.

Habitat

Found in various terrestrial environments, particularly in grassy and shrub areas.

Distribution

Canada and throughout the eastern USA west to the Rocky Mountains.

Diet

Insects and other small arthropods.

Life Cycle

Details on the life cycle are not specified, but like other spiders, they undergo incomplete metamorphosis with egg, juvenile, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Reproduction details are not provided; however, like most spiders, they likely engage in courtship and produce egg sacs.

Ecosystem Role

As a predator, it helps in controlling the insect population.

Cultural Significance

Commonly known as a longlegged crab spider, it may be of interest in ecological studies or pest control.