six legged spider?

beagle1812 · #1 (**permalink**) 26-08-2011, 08:11 PM

We found this spider in our house today, but it only appears to have six legs. Has it just lost two or is it a mutation? Any idea what type it is?

Many thanks!

Wild-Woman · #2 (**permalink**) 26-08-2011, 08:27 PM

Unfortunately it has lost them. Probably lost by nearly being predated by something eg bird.

Geoff F · #3 (**permalink**) 27-08-2011, 07:36 PM

Leg loss is quite common and adults don't regrow lost limbs. Having lost the third leg on each side does make it appear as though it was 'designed' to only have 6 legs.

I would suspect it is one of the Steatoda species but I wouldn't go any further from those photos. Judging by the small abdomen I would expect that it was a male; but we can't see the appropriate parts to be certain.

However, one of our spider experts may be able to add some extra information.

Jason Green · #4 (**permalink**) 27-08-2011, 08:19 PM

Steatoda

Meta menardi · #5 (**permalink**) 27-08-2011, 09:17 PM

I have little to add to Geoff F's comments, except to say that if you at almost all it's legs, they don't match side for side. It has had a hard life as an immature as well as an adult.

beagle1812 · #6 (**permalink**) 28-08-2011, 05:43 AM

Thanks everyone, it was found when our builder was installing our new shower and it came scooting out from a small gap in the wall. It has now taken up residence in a corner of the hall so hopefully will have an easier life from here on! Have looked up a few pics of steatoda and definately looks like one of that family.....