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Diving bell spider

Diving bell spider

Argyroneta aquatica

A species of Argyroneta, Also known as Water spider

The diving bell spider or water spider (Argyroneta aquatica) is the only species of spider known to live almost entirely under water. It is the only member of the genus Argyroneta. When out of the water, the spider ranges in colour from mid to dark brown, although the hairs on the abdomen give it a dark grey, velvet-like appearance. It is native to freshwater habitats in Europe and Asia.

General Info About Diving bell spider
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Attributes of Diving bell spider
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Silver
White
Blue
Habitat
A. aquatica is the only known species of spider that spends almost all its life underwater, including resting, catching and eating prey, mating, egg laying, and overwintering. It only briefly surfaces to replenish its oxygen supply and occasionally will bring prey to the surface. There are several other spiders that are semiaquatic, either periodically living underwater or willing to dive. For example, certain Desis species spend the high tide in an air-filled underwater retreat made from silk and forage on land in the intertidal zone during low tide. Some spiders living in periodically flooded habitats can survive for an extended period of time underwater by entering a coma-like state, up to 16–36 hours in Arctosa fulvolineata. Numerous species, including some Ancylometes, Dolomedes, Megadolomedes, Pardosa, Pirata, Thalassius and others, live above water at the surface, but may actively submerge for a prolonged period of time, are strong swimmers and will catch underwater prey. Several of these, as well as a few others, may dive into water to avoid larger predators.
Adult Food Sources
Aquatic insects, tadpoles, small fish, aquatic worms, snails
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
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Species Status of Diving bell spider
Common and widespread
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Distribution Area of Diving bell spider
Europe, Asia
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Predators of Diving bell spider Larvae
Aquatic insects, fish, tadpoles, bird species that feed on invertebrates
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Scientific Classification of Diving bell spider
Tips for Finding Diving bell spider
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Youth Habitat of Diving bell spider
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Diving bell spider
Freshwater Habitats
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How Can You Attract Diving bell spider
Since diving bell spider is a predator, it might be attracted to live prey or bait that mimics the presence of prey, such as small insects or larvae that make up its natural diet.
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How and Where Can You Find Diving bell spider at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Diving bell spider juveniles are smaller and might be found closer to the water's surface or in shallower areas. Look for them by carefully observing the edges of ponds or still water bodies without causing ripples that can disturb the water.
Diving bell spider sub-adults are larger and more likely to have constructed their own air bells. To find them, search for silvery air bell web structures underwater, often attached to aquatic vegetation or submerged objects.
Adult Diving bell spider adults would be fully grown and might venture out of the water occasionally. Search for them both underwater by spotting their air bells and at the water's edge during early morning or evening. Spotting their silvery diving bells in calm water conditions was the key to finding them.
Are Diving bell spider harmful?
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Are Diving bell spider harmful to humans?

Meshweavers do not usually bite people, and may only bite when they feel coerced. They have limited toxicity and are generally not considered dangerous organisms.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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