Tetragnatha caudata

Emerton, 1884

tailed long-jawed orbweaver

Tetragnatha caudata is a of long-jawed orb-weaving spider in the Tetragnathidae. The species is characterized by its elongated body form and exceptionally long , traits shared with other members of the Tetragnatha. It occurs across a broad geographic range in the Americas and Caribbean. Like other tetragnathids, it constructs orb webs in a horizontal or near-horizontal orientation.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tetragnatha caudata: /tɛ.træɡˈnæ.θə kaʊˈdeɪ.tə/

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Identification

Distinguished from other orb-weaving (particularly Araneidae) by the horizontal orientation of its orb web and the elongated body with long . -level identification within Tetragnatha requires examination of genitalia, spacing, and the ratio of chelicera length to length. The specific epithet "caudata" (meaning "tailed") may refer to a tapered or elongated , though this requires verification against .

Habitat

Found in meadows, fields, and riparian corridors. in this typically occupy two main categories: smaller species in grassy meadows and fields, and larger species over water. Tetragnatha caudata likely occurs in both contexts based on the genus pattern.

Distribution

North America, Central America, Cuba, Jamaica, Uruguay, and Argentina. Records from Canada include Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba.

Seasonality

Active during summer months; mature individuals observed in typical Tetragnatha seasonality patterns

Life Cycle

Females produce sacs that may be adhered to twigs or suspended on the web periphery. Males are typically slightly smaller than females. Mating involves both sexes grasping each other's jaws; males may possess spurs on the to receive female fangs.

Behavior

Constructs orb webs in a horizontal or near-horizontal plane. When disturbed, individuals rapidly exit the web and hug grass stems or substrate, using their elongated bodies and leg posture to mimic broken vegetation. Tolerant of conspecifics, with webs sometimes built in close proximity. Web spiral is typically widely spaced.

Ecological Role

of small flying insects, particularly aquatic emergents such as , gnats, and mayflies when occurring near water. Contributes to regulation of nuisance insect .

Human Relevance

Generally beneficial due to on insects including mosquitoes and midges. Not considered medically significant.

Similar Taxa

More Details

Taxonomic note

The specific epithet "caudata" is Latin for "tailed," likely referring to abdominal , though detailed original description verification is needed

Conservation status

No specific conservation assessment available for this ; appears to be widespread with no documented threats

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Sources and further reading