Darwinsgift
Woodlouse Spider
Another of my garden residence.
Woodlouse Spider
Dysdera crocata
Whereas most spiders have eight eyes, Dysdera crocata belongs to a group that have evolved with only six eyes. Whether this has any bearing on its choice of prey, the slow moving woodlouse, is open to conjecture.
In order to predate on the well armoured woodlouse it has developed a pair of substantial fangs (the largest of any UK spider) with which to pierce and grasp its prey. . In action, the fangs open sideways in a scissor action and are inclined inwards to achieve a very effective gripping action. They are capable of giving humans a painful nip but cause no lasting harm.
Males grow to about 10mm and females, with their larger abdomens, to about 15mm.
They tend to be nocturnal hunters and are not often seen unless disturbed from their hiding places amongst rotting wood and compost heaps (where woodlice are also found). Being 'true' hunters, they do not spin entrapment webs but use silk to line their nests.
Woodlouse Spider
Another of my garden residence.
Woodlouse Spider
Dysdera crocata
Whereas most spiders have eight eyes, Dysdera crocata belongs to a group that have evolved with only six eyes. Whether this has any bearing on its choice of prey, the slow moving woodlouse, is open to conjecture.
In order to predate on the well armoured woodlouse it has developed a pair of substantial fangs (the largest of any UK spider) with which to pierce and grasp its prey. . In action, the fangs open sideways in a scissor action and are inclined inwards to achieve a very effective gripping action. They are capable of giving humans a painful nip but cause no lasting harm.
Males grow to about 10mm and females, with their larger abdomens, to about 15mm.
They tend to be nocturnal hunters and are not often seen unless disturbed from their hiding places amongst rotting wood and compost heaps (where woodlice are also found). Being 'true' hunters, they do not spin entrapment webs but use silk to line their nests.