Spined Micrathena: How to Identify These Orb Weaver Spiders.

The Spined micrathena (Micrathena gracilis) is a spider in the family Araneidae (orb-weavers), commonly known as castle-back orb weaver. This eight-legged creature creates an immense and tightly coiled web that can span up to 8 inches in diameter.

Spined Micrathena: Description.

Spined micrathena spiders are generally tiny and measure .15 to.4 inches long. Fortunately, their venom is non-toxic for humans. The species’ defining features include a sizeable spiky abdomen and contrasting black and white bodies – certain members of this type may also display yellow markings on the sides of their bodies. These critters are most active during late summer/early fall, diurnal creatures that rarely appear at night.

Spined micrathena captivate with their bulbous abdomens and spines. Males of this species are notably different from females; they tend to be much smaller, lack the same number of spines, possess a flatter abdomen, and boast a softer hue. During courtship, males produce silk and engage in other mating rituals.

When constructing webs, the inner orbs of the Spined micrathena webs are changed every night; Nevertheless, the outer layer of their webbing can remain unchanged for days at a time.

Spined micrathena: Habitat and range.

Spined micrathena, native to North and Central America, are usually on the move. These spiders prefer a transient lifestyle and often settle into new webs for about 6-7 days before leaving in search of another home. Neotropical forests with Oak or Hickory trees provide ideal habitats for these arachnids; they love moist environments close to lagoons, ponds, or other small bodies of water.

Spined Micrathena: Reproduction.

As the new season comes around, Spined micrathena emerges as an adult. After months of growth throughout the summertime, females will lay their eggs in a sac that remains relatively immobile during winter. This species has an average life span of one year before its cycle starts again.