Theridion varians

Hahn, 1833

Variable Cobweb Spider

Theridion varians is a of cobweb spider in the Theridiidae. It has a broad native distribution spanning Europe, North Africa, Turkey, the Caucasus, Russia, Central Asia, and China. The species has been introduced to North America, where it is now established in Canada and the United States. Four are recognized, reflecting geographic variation across its range.

Theridion.varians.2 by James K. Lindsey. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.Theridion varians (33985838158) by AJC1. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.Theridion.varians.1 by James K. Lindsey. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Theridion varians: //θəˈrɪdiən ˈvɛəriənz//

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Distribution

Native to Europe, North Africa, Turkey, Caucasus, Russia (Europe to Siberia), Kazakhstan, Iran, Central Asia, and China. Introduced and established in Canada and the United States.

Similar Taxa

  • Parasteatoda tepidariorumBoth are theridiid spiders with similar cobweb-building habits; P. tepidariorum is distinguished by its close association with human habitations and distinct sac
  • Theridion melanurumCongeneric with overlapping European distribution; precise identification requires examination of genitalia and subtle somatic differences

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