Here, we’ll share cool facts about Cyclocosmia, a special group of trapdoor spiders. Up until 2018, they were part of the Ctenizidae family. But things changed and now, as of April 2019, there are ten different types in the Halonoproctidae family. Let’s discover amazing details about them!
Photo Credit: Noah K. Fields
Eggs are small and round.
Detailed information on spiderling behavior post-hatching is still being studied.
Unlike other spiders, Cyclocosmia does not spin extensive webs. Their hunting strategy involves a trapdoor-like structure atop their burrows, which are lined with silk only at the bottom, serving as a hideout to ambush prey.
Yes, Cyclocosmia spiders have venom. They use it mainly to catch their prey, like small insects. But don’t worry too much; their venom isn’t usually harmful to humans.
Yes, Cyclocosmia spiders can bite if they feel threatened. Their bite might cause a little pain or swelling, similar to a bee sting. It’s always good to be gentle and avoid bothering them.
Photo Credit: Noah K. Fields
In terms of ecological importance, Cyclocosmia spiders contribute to soil aeration through their burrowing actions, which is beneficial for plant growth. Their behavior of using their body to block the entrance of their burrows, known as phragmosis, is not only a defensive mechanism but also a fascinating example of evolutionary adaptation.
Natural Predators: Natural predators of Cyclocosmia include wasps and scorpions, which can penetrate their burrows. These predators have adapted strategies to overcome the spider’s hardened disk and venom defense. The Cyclocosmia’s response to such threats is a testament to the ongoing arms race between different species, driving evolutionary changes.
Prey-Predator Dynamics: These spiders have a significant role in their ecosystems. As predators, they help control the populations of insects like crickets, moths, beetles, and grasshoppers. This prey-predator dynamic is vital for maintaining ecological balance. Cyclocosmia spiders themselves fall prey to wasps and scorpions, illustrating the intricate web of inter-species relationships.
Relationship with Humans: The relationship between Cyclocosmia spiders and humans is predominantly one of distant respect. While their venom is not a significant threat, their role as pest controllers makes them an asset in human-dominated landscapes. Their reclusive nature means that encounters are rare, and they are not considered a pest or a threat to human activities.
| Distribution | United States and parts of Asia (China, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam) |
| Habitat | Mostly live underground in warm places but may even build their burrows |
| Predators | Wasps and scorpions |
| Diet | Cricket, moths, beetles, and grasshoppers |
| Lifespan | Approximately 5 – 10 years |
In summary, Cyclocosmia spiders are a group that not only fascinates due to their unique physical characteristics but also plays a pivotal role in the ecosystem.
Here, we’ll share cool facts about Cyclocosmia, a special group of trapdoor spiders. Up until 2018, they were part of the Ctenizidae family. But things changed and now, as of April 2019, there are ten different types in the Halonoproctidae family. Let’s discover amazing details about them!
Photo Credit: Noah K. Fields
Eggs are small and round.
Detailed information on spiderling behavior post-hatching is still being studied.
Unlike other spiders, Cyclocosmia does not spin extensive webs. Their hunting strategy involves a trapdoor-like structure atop their burrows, which are lined with silk only at the bottom, serving as a hideout to ambush prey.
Yes, Cyclocosmia spiders have venom. They use it mainly to catch their prey, like small insects. But don’t worry too much; their venom isn’t usually harmful to humans.
Yes, Cyclocosmia spiders can bite if they feel threatened. Their bite might cause a little pain or swelling, similar to a bee sting. It’s always good to be gentle and avoid bothering them.
Photo Credit: Noah K. Fields
In terms of ecological importance, Cyclocosmia spiders contribute to soil aeration through their burrowing actions, which is beneficial for plant growth. Their behavior of using their body to block the entrance of their burrows, known as phragmosis, is not only a defensive mechanism but also a fascinating example of evolutionary adaptation.
Natural Predators: Natural predators of Cyclocosmia include wasps and scorpions, which can penetrate their burrows. These predators have adapted strategies to overcome the spider’s hardened disk and venom defense. The Cyclocosmia’s response to such threats is a testament to the ongoing arms race between different species, driving evolutionary changes.
Prey-Predator Dynamics: These spiders have a significant role in their ecosystems. As predators, they help control the populations of insects like crickets, moths, beetles, and grasshoppers. This prey-predator dynamic is vital for maintaining ecological balance. Cyclocosmia spiders themselves fall prey to wasps and scorpions, illustrating the intricate web of inter-species relationships.
Relationship with Humans: The relationship between Cyclocosmia spiders and humans is predominantly one of distant respect. While their venom is not a significant threat, their role as pest controllers makes them an asset in human-dominated landscapes. Their reclusive nature means that encounters are rare, and they are not considered a pest or a threat to human activities.
| Distribution | United States and parts of Asia (China, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam) |
| Habitat | Mostly live underground in warm places but may even build their burrows |
| Predators | Wasps and scorpions |
| Diet | Cricket, moths, beetles, and grasshoppers |
| Lifespan | Approximately 5 – 10 years |
In summary, Cyclocosmia spiders are a group that not only fascinates due to their unique physical characteristics but also plays a pivotal role in the ecosystem.
Mumpi Ghosh on June 5, 2020.
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