Zygiella or what else?

Geoff F · #1 (**permalink**) 20-10-2009, 06:38 PM

Inside a plastic bag amongst the debris on my larder floor I found a couple of spiders which, at first, I thought were probably Zygiella x-notata but I wasn't sure so I tipped the larger specimen into a glass and tried to take some photographs as it ran around the glass.

S. Devon. About 4 or 5 mm approx.

The abdomen colour was making me possibly consider Z. atrica but I think the abdomen appears a bit large for a male; and for the moment I can't suggest any alternatives.

So any ideas?

Jason Green · #2 (**permalink**) 20-10-2009, 07:53 PM

Evening Geoff,

it looks like a young male Theridiidae member to me. Not too sure which though.

Take care,

Jason

No.9 Spider · #3 (**permalink**) 20-10-2009, 08:03 PM

I'd guess at Linyphiidae/Neriene sp. of which there are a few contenders with similar abdominal markings.

No.9 Spider

Geoff F · #4 (**permalink**) 20-10-2009, 10:39 PM

Yes Linyphiidae had crossed my mind especially the appearance of the carapace, but I tried to work through the Linyphiidae keys in the Roberts book without getting anywhere although admitedly, there are plenty to choose from. I did think that it looked a bit like Neriene peltata which I see in the woods during the spring but it is too late for them now.

I also considered Theridiidae and started by thinking about an odd marked Enoplognatha ovata as an idea; but once again it didn't look quite right.

However, if you are both agreed that it isn't likely to be Zygiella sp. I will have another think. Thanks for the suggestions.

It did seem strange to find 2 together but I suppose they could have hatched in the larder as there is a vent leading into the garden.