Distribution

The species is widespread on southern heathlands and in south-eastern England but with few scattered records elsewhere in England as far north as Northumberland and in Wales. It is widespread in north-western and central Europe.

Habitat and ecology

T. striatus occurs on the ground at the base of vegetation in sandy grassland, heathland and dunes but also in tussocky grassland on sea walls, in brackish grassland, saltmarsh, dyke edges, waste ground and old sand pits. Adults of both sexes are mainly found in May and June, females into July and occasionally August and September.

Status

The spider is local and generally uncommon, but it has occurred with some frequency in Essex, Kent, Hants and Dorset. It has shown a small decline in records post-1992.

Threats

Conversion of heathland to other land-use. Possibly public pressure on some dune systems.

Management and conservation

Protect heathland from conversion to other land-use. Protect sand dunes form excessive public pressure (e.g. use by off road vehicles). Text based on Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. (in prep.).