Summary details for Ray Spider (Theridiosoma gemmosum (L. Koch, 1877))

Distribution

The species does not extend northwards of a line from the Wash to Anglesey. It is widespread in western and southern Europe.

Habitat and ecology

T. gemmosum occurs in damp places, among low herbage, grass, etc., in a variety of wet situations (bogs, wet heath, ditches, fens, marshes). It spins a small orb web low down among vegetation. Both sexes are adult from May to August, females into September, possibly with a male peak in June and a female peak in June and July. The egg-sac is attached by a stalk to bushes and trees at a considerable height from the ground.

Status

The spider is widespread in southern England and often abundant where found, but very local.

Threats

The drainage of fens, bogs and other wet places.

Management and conservation

Maintain low vegetation and the water table in fens, bogs, etc. Some bushes are necessary for egg-laying. Text based on Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. (in prep.).