Summary details for Dipoena melanogaster (C.L. Koch, 1837)

Distribution

In Britain D. melanogaster has only been found in southern England. Single specimens have been recorded from Lyndhurst (Hampshire) in 1858, Bloxworth Heath (Dorset) in 1881, Mickleham Down (Surrey) in 1970, and Hackhurst Downs (Surrey) in 1976. In 1997 it was collected near Juniper Hall Field Centre at Box Hill, Surrey, and again there in 2003. It is widespread in Europe as far north as southern Norway and Sweden, where it is included on their Red List (Gärdenfors 2000). The spider is rare in northern Europe but more common in central and southern Europe.

Habitat and ecology

This species has been recorded from gorse and other low bushes, whilst in Ireland it has been found on the lower branches of Scots pine. Adults have been recorded in June and July.

Status

Very rare in Britain, recorded from just six locations in 150 years and only two locations since 1992.

Threats

Afforestation of heathlands may pose a threat.

Management and conservation

As the males are very short lived and females live concealed in a retreat, little is known of their habitat requirements. More information is required before management recommendations can be made. Text based on Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. (in prep.).