Aculepeira Annulipes

aculepeira annulipes

The Aculepeira annulipes, commonly known for its distinctive appearance, is a fascinating member of the orb-weaver family (Araneidae). These spiders are master architects of the natural world, constructing intricate spiral webs to ensnare their insect prey. While not as large or brightly colored as some of their tropical relatives, A. annulipes plays a crucial role in temperate ecosystems by controlling insect populations. Their life cycle typically spans a single year, with adults most prominent during the warmer months when they are actively hunting and reproducing. They are a testament to the diverse and often overlooked biodiversity found in common habitats.

Habitat: Found in open, sunny areas with low vegetation, such as grasslands, meadows, forest edges, and gardens, where they construct their webs between stalks of grass or small shrubs.

Appearance

Aculepeira annulipes typically displays a body length ranging from 5 to 10 mm for females, while males are considerably smaller, often 3 to 5 mm. Its cephalothorax and legs are usually yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, often featuring distinct dark rings or bands on the legs, which gives the species its 'annulipes' (ringed legs) name. The abdomen is globular to oval, often exhibiting a complex pattern of lighter and darker markings, including a folium pattern that can vary in prominence, usually with a pale median stripe flanked by darker lines or spots. Some individuals may have small, pointed tubercles on the abdomen, though less pronounced than in other Aculepeira species.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassArachnidaOrderAraneaeFamilyAraneidaeGenusAculepeira

Aculepeira Annulipes

Interesting facts

Female Aculepeira annulipes are significantly larger than males, a common trait among many spider species where the female often needs more resources for egg production.

Like many orb-weavers, Aculepeira annulipes often consumes and recycles its old silk, especially when repairing or rebuilding its web.

The intricate spiral pattern of an orb web is not just beautiful; it's a highly optimized design for maximizing prey capture with minimal silk.

The name 'annulipes' refers to the distinct ringed or banded pattern on the spider's legs, a key identification feature.

Special abilities

Aculepeira annulipes is an expert at spinning the classic, highly effective circular orb web. This intricate structure is designed to passively intercept flying insects, serving as both a hunting tool and a home base.

The spider possesses highly sensitive leg receptors that detect vibrations in its web. These vibrations allow it to pinpoint the location and size of ensnared prey, even in complete darkness.

Its varied abdominal patterns and coloration provide excellent camouflage against foliage and bark, allowing it to remain hidden from both predators and unsuspecting prey while waiting in or near its web.

Measurements & details

Length: 0-1 cm
Weight: 0.0001-0.001 kg
Lifespan: 1 years
Clutch Size: 50-150
Incubation: 15-25 days

Diet & Feeding

Aculepeira annulipes is a carnivorous insectivore, relying primarily on its meticulously constructed orb web to capture a variety of flying and jumping insects that become entangled in the sticky silk.

Primary Foods

flies
moths
beetles
grasshoppers
aphids
small wasps

Foraging Method

Ambush

Ecological connections

hunts

House Fly

Musca domestica

Primary prey item captured in orb webs.

eaten by

Wasp

Sphecidae spp.

Predator that preys on spiders, including A. annulipes.

eaten by

Wren

Troglodytes troglodytes

Bird species that may feed on spiders found in vegetation.

hunts

Green Peach Aphid

Myzus persicae

Small insect prey commonly caught in its webs.

Traits

No trait badges are assigned for this object yet.

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

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Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Aculepeira Annulipes?

The easiest way to identify Aculepeira Annulipes is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Aculepeira Annulipes?

0-1 cm

How much does Aculepeira Annulipes weigh?

0.0001-0.001 kg

How long does Aculepeira Annulipes live?

1 years

What does Aculepeira Annulipes eat?

Where is Aculepeira Annulipes usually found?

Found in open, sunny areas with low vegetation, such as grasslands, meadows, forest edges, and gardens, where they construct their webs between stalks of grass or small shrubs.

How does Aculepeira Annulipes hunt?

Ambush

How many eggs does Aculepeira Annulipes lay?

50-150