Oligotoma

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Oligotoma: /ˌɒlɪɡəˈtoʊmə/

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Summary

Oligotoma nigra, or the black webspinner, is a silk-spinning insect that has adapted to life in the southwest U.S. after being introduced from India. It plays a role in its ecosystem by feeding on plant debris and contributing to soil health.

Physical Characteristics

Adult Oligotoma nigra is entirely dark brown or black, reaching approximately 9mm in length. Females are typically redder than males. Only adult males have wings and are capable of flight. Nymphs are paler than adults and darken as they mature.

Identification Tips

Look for adult males with wings and an affinity for light; females are often darker red in color than males.

Habitat

Oligotoma nigra lives in silk tunnels beneath rocks or structures near food sources, often in gardens or near palm trees.

Distribution

Originally from India, now found in the southwestern United States, specifically from Texas to California and Utah.

Diet

Feeds on debris, dead plant material, mosses, and lichens, commonly associated with grass or ornamental plants.

Life Cycle

The life cycle typically completes within a year, undergoing incomplete metamorphosis (hemimetabolous). Nymphs produce silk from glands to create protective tunnels.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid within silk tunnels, and nymphs expand the tunnels as they grow.

Ecosystem Role

Oligotoma nigra contributes to the decomposition of plant material in its habitat.

Collecting Methods

• Light traps
• Hand collection

Preservation Methods

• Pinning
• Ethanol preservation

Similar Taxa

• Termites (Isoptera)
• Barklice (Psocoptera)

Misconceptions

Often confused with termites due to their similar habitat and silk production.

Tags

• Oligotoma
• black webspinner
• insects
• embiidina
• silk tunnels