Trashline
Guides
Allocyclosa
trashline orb weaver
Allocyclosa is a monotypic genus of orb-weaver spiders in the family Araneidae, containing only Allocyclosa bifurca. Originally described as Cyrtophora bifurca in 1887, it was transferred to its own genus in 1999 based on distinctive morphological features. The genus is notable for being the only Cyclosa-like species north of Mexico with a forked abdominal tip, and for its unusual reproductive biology where males are exceptionally rare.
Cyclosa
Trashline Orbweavers
Cyclosa is a genus of orb-weaver spiders commonly known as trashline orbweavers, first described by Anton Menge in 1866. These spiders are distinguished by their unique web decorations consisting of linear arrangements of prey remains, debris, and sometimes egg sacs arranged vertically through the web center. The name derives from Greek 'to move in a circle,' referencing their spiral web construction. Most species face downward in their webs, though some face upward. The genus contains approximately 178 species distributed worldwide.
Cyclosa conica
Conical Trashline Orbweaver
Cyclosa conica is a small orb-weaving spider known for constructing distinctive vertical webs decorated with debris. Females measure 5.3–7.5 mm in body length, while males are smaller at 3.6–4 mm. The species is recognized by its unique behavior of stringing dead insect bodies and other debris vertically through the center of its web, forming a 'trashline' or stabilimentum. The spider positions itself at the hub of this debris, relying on its cryptic coloration to blend in and avoid detection by predators. When disturbed, it feigns death as a secondary defense.
Cyclosa turbinata
Humped Trashline Orbweaver, Trashline Orbweaver
Cyclosa turbinata is a small orb-weaving spider (Araneidae) known for its distinctive 'trashline' web decoration, where the spider arranges debris, prey carcasses, and egg sacs in a vertical line through the web hub to camouflage itself from visual predators. Females possess two anterior dorsal humps on the abdomen, distinguishing them from the similar C. conica. The species exhibits an exceptionally short-period circadian clock of approximately 19 hours, regulating its locomotor and web-building activities. Native to North and Central America, it has been introduced to Hawaii and other regions, with spiderlings dispersing via wind-borne silk (ballooning).