Tetragnatha caudata
Emerton, 1884
tailed long-jawed orbweaver
Tetragnatha caudata is a of long-jawed -weaving 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/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other -weaving (particularly Araneidae) by the horizontal orientation of its orb web and the elongated body with long . -level identification within Tetragnatha requires examination of , 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 ; males may possess on the to receive female .
Behavior
Constructs 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 , with webs sometimes built in close proximity. Web spiral is typically widely spaced.
Ecological Role
of small flying , particularly aquatic emergents such as , , and when occurring near water. Contributes to regulation of nuisance insect .
Human Relevance
Generally due to on including mosquitoes and . Not considered medically significant.
Similar Taxa
- Tetragnatha viridisBoth are North Tetragnatha , but T. viridis is immediately recognizable by its emerald green coloration, which T. caudata lacks
- Araneidae (typical orb weavers)Construct vertical webs rather than horizontal ones, and have shorter and more rounded
- Tetragnatha guatemalensisCapable of building extensive communal webs; T. caudata appears to build individual webs based on available information
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 assessment available for this ; appears to be widespread with no documented threats