Phylloneta
Archer, 1950
Phylloneta is a small of -footed ( Theridiidae) containing three and two with a Holarctic distribution. The genus was elevated from subgenus status in 2008, having formerly been considered part of Allotheridion. Species include P. impressa, P. pictipes, and P. sisyphia (with subspecies P. s. foliifera and P. s. torandae). The species, P. pictipes, was originally described in 1884.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phylloneta: //ˌfɪl.əˈneɪ.tə//
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Identification
Members of this can be distinguished from related theridiid genera by their -footed and specific genitalic characteristics that warranted their elevation to genus status. Separation from the former parent genus Allotheridion and from Theridion requires examination of detailed morphological features.
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Habitat
Agricultural landscapes including rape (canola) fields; broader range across Holarctic region inferred from distribution but not explicitly documented.
Distribution
Holarctic distribution. Documented occurrence records from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
Seasonality
and present in agricultural fields before harvest in mid-July.
Life Cycle
occurs during growing season, with females producing that persist in the field environment. Cocoons and females co-occur in before harvest.
Behavior
Web-building that construct webs capable of retaining remnants. Webs serve as passive sampling devices for environmental including .
Ecological Role
in agricultural . Serves as a bioindicator for exposure through accumulation in body tissues, , and web structures.
Human Relevance
Subject of research due to bioaccumulation of protection products in bodies, , and webs. Potential utility for environmental risk assessment in agricultural landscapes.
Similar Taxa
- TheridionFormerly classified within this ; separated based on distinct morphological characteristics.
- AllotheridionFormerly considered a subgenus of Allotheridion; elevated to status in 2008 based on revised taxonomic assessment.
More Details
Taxonomic History
First described as Theridion pictipes by Eugen von Keyserling in 1884. Transferred to Phylloneta and elevated to status in 2008 following taxonomic revision.