Orb-weaver spider
Paratachydromia or Steatoda grossa (specifically focusing on orb-weaver family Araneidae)
Family Araneidae (Orb-Weavers), Order Araneae. Key family characteristics include building vertical, wheel-shaped orb webs and having eight similar-sized eyes arranged in two rows.
Physical Description
The spider has a rounded, bulbous abdomen typical of orb-weavers, with a distinct patterned dorsal shield. The cephalothorax is smaller and compact. The visible undersides or upper patterns show high contrast markings.
Size Estimate
Body length is approximately 8 to 12 mm with a leg span of roughly 20 to 25 mm, indicating a medium-sized adult or large sub-adult orb-weaver.
Coloration & Markings
Features a brownish or yellowish base color with striking pale or whitish spots arranged in a geometric or cross-like pattern on the dorsal abdomen, accompanied by darker brownish bands on the legs.
Web Type
Constructs a classic vertical orb web made of sticky spiral silk designed to intercept flying insect prey, typically suspended between structures, plants, or window frames.
Eye Arrangement
Consists of eight small eyes arranged in two distinct horizontal rows on the anterior portion of the cephalothorax, typical for spatial awareness in web-building spiders.
Leg Characteristics
Legs are moderately long, somewhat stout, equipped with visible spines and distinct dark banding patterns. They are held radially in the classic resting pose on the web.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Utilizes neurotoxic venom specialized for subduing invertebrate prey. The venom has no significant medical impact on humans.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. A bite, which is extremely rare and only occurs if the spider is directly squeezed or trapped against the skin, typically results in mild, localized discomfort similar to a mosquito bite.
Safety Recommendations
Leave the spider undisturbed as it is harmless and beneficial. If relocation is necessary, gently guide it into a container using a piece of paper.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Found globally across temperate and tropical regions, commonly inhabiting gardens, exterior walls of buildings, shrubs, and window corners where flying insect traffic is high.
Behavior & Temperament
Docile and non-aggressive toward humans. It relies on its web for hunting, remaining stationary at the center or hiding in a nearby retreat during the day and active primarily at night.
Diet & Prey
Feeds primarily on flying insects such as flies, mosquitoes, moths, and small beetles caught in the sticky spiral of its orb web.
Seasonal Activity
Most active during the warm spring and summer months, reaching peak adult size and visibility in late summer and autumn.
Description
This classic orb-weaver spider is a master architect, spinning intricate wheel-shaped webs to catch flying pests. With its patterned abdomen and steady presence in gardens and around homes, it serves as a beneficial and fascinating neighbor for nature enthusiasts.
Key Features
Bulbous patterned abdomen, distinctive pale spots on a darker background, medium build, and association with a vertical wheel-shaped orb web.
Similar Species
Other orb-weavers such as Neoscona crucifera or Araneus diadematus. Distinguished by the specific arrangement of light spots and abdominal shape.
Life Cycle
Females lay eggs wrapped in silken egg sacs in sheltered locations during autumn. Spiderlings hatch in spring, disperse via ballooning, and mature over the course of a single year.
Ecological Importance
Acts as an effective natural pest control agent, significantly reducing populations of flying insects including mosquitoes and agricultural pests.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but populations are generally abundant, stable, and widespread globally.
Interesting Facts
Many orb-weavers consume and recycle their own webs daily to recover proteins used in silk production before spinning a fresh one.
Photography Tips
Photograph from the side or slightly above the web using natural macro lighting. A fast shutter speed helps freeze any movement if the spider adjusts its position.
Identified: 2026-09-26T12:27:28.897370