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Spined micrathena

Spined micrathena

Micrathena gracilis

A species of Micrathena, Also known as Spiny-bellied orbweaver, Spined orbweaver

The spined micrathena (Micrathena gracilis) look is super impressive because of the large and sharp spines or bumps on the abdomen. Actually, those spiders with hard spines are always females. In contrast, the abdomen of a male is elongated and more flattened. It is completely harmless to human beings as it doesn’t have venom.

Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Humans
General Info About Spined micrathena
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Attributes of Spined micrathena
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, moths, flies, mosquitoes, small beetles
Larva Food Source
Small insects, mites, tiny fly larvae, aphids, juvenile spiders
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Spined micrathena can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Spined micrathena typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
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Species Status of Spined micrathena
It can be found in Northern Argentina as well as Eastern and Northern parts of North America.
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Distribution Area of Spined micrathena
Canada
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Appearance of Spined micrathena
The spiders themselves are small and can be found to be anywhere from 4 - 11 mm long. The Micrathena gracilis is unique in appearance due to its large spiky abdomen and black and white bodies. Certain spiders of this species can also display a yellow color on the sides of their bodies (Vanderhoff et al. 470). Females are 8 - 10 mm long. They exhibit a bulbous abdomen with spines. Males exhibit a fair amount of sexual dimorphism. They tend to be about fraction of the size of the females. Also, they have fewer spines, a flatter abdomen, and a slightly lighter tone.
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How to Identify Spined micrathena?

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Adult Size of Spined micrathena
4 - 11 mm
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Interesting Facts About Spined micrathena
Spined micrathena can spin intricate, orb-shaped webs daily, using their silk's impressive tensile strength to capture prey.
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Scientific Classification of Spined micrathena
Tips for Finding Spined micrathena
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Youth Habitat of Spined micrathena
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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Adult Habitat of Spined micrathena
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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How Can You Attract Spined micrathena
Since spined micrathena are predatory creatures, their traps typically involve using prey insects as bait.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Spined micrathena
The best time to find adult spined micrathena would be during their mating season when they are most active, which typically peaks in late summer or early fall.
Are Spined micrathena harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Spined micrathena
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Toxic to Animals
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Toxic to Animals

Spined micrathena is known for its mild venom, which is utilized primarily for subduing prey. This toxin is delivered through a bite, employing its fangs. Adults of this species are toxic and can affect both mammals and smaller creatures, causing minor discomfort. In humans, encounters may lead to slight irritation or allergic reactions. Domestic pets like dogs and cats could experience similar mild reactions. Smaller mammals, when bitten, might show more pronounced distress due to their size and sensitivity, but generally, the venom is not life-threatening.

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Bite Humans

Spined micrathena typically does not exhibit biting behavior towards humans. Bites are rare, occurring primarily in defensive circumstances when they are provoked or inadvertently disturbed by human activity. When biting, spined micrathena utilizes its fangs to deliver a mild venom, which generally results in minimal to no symptoms for humans.

More Effects of Spined micrathena

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