The European Sheetweb spider is still limited in the United States to some 15 counties in Maine.
web in the grass. Photo credit: Shutterstock.com/Thatmacroguy
European Sheetweb spider: Description.
The European sheetweb spider can reach up to 1/4 inch in length. Its carapace is light brown with darker patterns along the edges and centerline. At the same time, its opisthosoma features a distinctively serrated dark-brown band set against an ivory backdrop dotted with further specs of brown on both sides. Many long spines cover the legs, present as greyish-brown hues.
European sheetweb spider: Range
The European sheetweb spider is ubiquitously found across Europe and has recently been introduced to Maine. It can now be seen in over 15 counties and continues to thrive, particularly in Acadia National Park and nearby coastal regions.
European sheetweb spiders: Habitat
European sheetweb spiders (Linyphia triangularis) dwell in various habitats, usually perched among low vegetation and bushes. These arachnids construct horizontal webs to snare their prey – they habitually lurk on the underside of these sheets, ready to pounce upon unsuspecting victims, which are captured using “barrage lines” above the web. In the late summer and autumn, adults become active predators yet rarely wrap their prey up with silk but kill them without delay!
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