Micrathena sagittata (Arrowhead Micrathena)

Summary

The "Arrowshaped Micrathena," Micrathena sagittata, is a strange little orbweaver (8-9 millimeter body length in females) found in the eastern U.S. west to Nebraska and Texas. It is most common in the southern part of its range. The spikes on the hardened abdomen of this spider probably help deter predators. The orb web of this species is usually built in low bushes, rarely more than two feet from the ground in open deciduous woodlands and along forest edges. Typically about one foot in diameter, the web has a “tight” appearance with many radii (“spokes”); and the spiral very tightly wound and closely spaced. A short, zigzag band of silk called a stabilimentum may be positioned just above the center of the web. The spider occupies the hub (center) of web, hanging head down. The web is vertical or slightly inclined. The spider drops from the web into leaf litter if disturbed. Prey is flying and jumping insects like leafhoppers that are intercepted by the web.