Cat-Faced (Araneus gemmoides)

The cat-faced spider, known to some as the jewel spider, thrives during the nighttime. Part of the orb-weaver family, these spiders create spiral webs shaped like wheels. Let’s discover more about this fascinating spider in this post.

Scientific Classification

• Family: Araneidae
• Genus: Araneus
• Scientific name: Araneus gemmoides

Physical Description and Identification

Adults

• Size: Males are between 5mm and 8 mm, while the females are larger, growing 13mm to 25 mm.

• Color: These spiders differ in color, as some may be as pale as a straw while others could have a dark brown body. Red, white, and ivory are the other possible colors they may be found in.

• Other Characteristic Features: Being a member of the Angulate orb-weaver genus, both sexes have a bulbous abdomen along with frontal projections on both sides, with a white line intersecting in between. They are often found in an upside-down posture as they prefer sitting with their head pointing towards the ground.

Photo Credit: Werner Eigelsreiter

Eggs

Tiny, round, or disc-shaped, contained in a small egg sac made of silk.

Spiderlings

Small in size, they come out of the egg sac in 2 to 3 weeks’ time and disperse through the process of ballooning.

Are Cat-Faced Spiders Venomous?

Yes, cat-faced spiders have venom, but it’s mostly used to immobilize their prey. The venom is generally not harmful to humans.

Can Cat-Faced Spiders Bite?

Cat-faced spiders can bite, but it’s rare. It might inflict a pinching bite if handled, but it often does not penetrate the skin. In any case, there is little chance of any serious health hazard as the venom they produce is harmless to humans.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of Cat-Faced Spider

The cat-faced spider plays a pivotal role in natural insect control, especially around human dwellings. Their nocturnal activities involve meticulous web construction, which inadvertently reduces the population of nocturnal insects. The presence of these spiders contributes significantly to maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Natural Predator: The primary natural predator of the cat-faced spider is the black and yellow mud-dauber, a wasp that hunts spiders for its larvae. This interaction illustrates the complexity of food chains and the role of natural predators in controlling spider populations.

Prey-Predator Dynamics: Juveniles of this species exhibit cannibalistic tendencies, often consuming their siblings. Mature spiders feed on various insects, impacting the local insect community structure. This dynamic is essential for the balance of different species within their habitat.

Relationship with Humans: These spiders are generally seen as beneficial to humans. Often found near lights or buildings, they help reduce pest insects. Their venom poses little to no risk, making them friendly neighbors rather than pests. In fact, they are sometimes welcomed as natural pest controllers in gardens and farms.

Quick Facts

Did You Know

• This species shares its name (cat-faced) with the Araneus gemma, a comparatively smaller spider found in the US. Its other name, jewel spider, coincides with the Austracantha minax, found in Australia.
• Most of the juvenile cat-faced spiders do not mature into adulthood as the spiderlings eat up their own siblings after they emerge from the silk sac.

• These spiders serve as good pets, helping their owner keep his home and garden free of insects, especially in late summer.

In conclusion, the cat-faced spider’s intricate web patterns not only represent an engineering marvel but also serve as a testament to nature’s efficiency in pest control.