Summary details for Xysticus bifasciatus C.L. Koch, 1837

Distribution

The species is widely scattered in England, Wales and Scotland, but fairly widespread in southern central England. It is a Palaearctic species widespread in western and central Europe, but has not been recorded from Ireland.

Habitat and ecology

X. bifasciatus is a large and robust spider and of the twelve British species in the genus it is equalled in size only by X. luctator and X. robustus or abnormally large females of Xysticus cristatus or X. kochi. It is found in low vegetation, under stones on chalk grassland and sometimes on warm grassy heaths. Adults of both sexes are found in spring and early summer, females occasionally persisting into the autumn.

Status

Scarce, but may be frequent at some sites, particularly in southern England. This species has apparently shown a long-term decline.

Threats

The decline has probably been a result of loss of calcareous grassland to arable and succession to scrub and woodland.

Management and conservation

Maintain open ground and early successional stages on chalk grassland. Text based on Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. (in prep.).