Zygiella dispar

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Phonognathidae
Genus: Zygiella
Species: dispar

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Zygiella dispar: /zɪˈdʒiː.ɛl.ə ˈdɪs.pɑr/

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Summary

Zygiella dispar is an orb-weaving spider found primarily in natural forest habitats along the west coast, recognized for its orb-shaped webs. It was reclassified to the genus Zygiella in 2015, consolidating it with closely related species under this taxon.

Physical Characteristics

Zygiella dispar is characterized by its orb-shaped webs and typical orb weaver morphology.

Identification Tips

Z. dispar cannot be reliably identified by color alone; it is necessary to compare with other species such as Z. x-notata and Z. atrica.

Habitat

Found in natural forests.

Distribution

Southern Alaska to California, predominantly on or near the west coast.

Diet

Feeds primarily on insects caught in its web.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details are typical of orb weavers, with stages including egg, juvenile, and adult.

Reproduction

Reproduces sexually, laying eggs in a silk sac typically during summer months.

Predators

Other spider species and various insectivorous animals may prey on Zygiella dispar.

Ecosystem Role

Contributes to controlling insect populations as a predator.

Evolution

In 2015, the genus Parazygiella was determined to be a taxonomic synonym of Zygiella, leading to a reclassification of species.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

There is a common misconception that all orb weavers are the same, but Z. dispar has distinct habitat preferences compared to closely related species.