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spider Marbled Orb-weaver Spiders

Identify It >   Spiders Section >   Marbled Orb-weaver Spiders >


Scientific name:  Araneus marmoreus var. pyramidatus

Size:  Body and head up to 14mm

Distribution:  Found in many parts of the UK.  More frequent in southern England

Months seen:  May to October

Habitat:  Often near water on vegetation in damp heathland and woodland

Food:  Small invertebrates

Special features:  Marbled Orb-weavers are named after the extremely ornate marbled pattern on their abdomens.  The Latin name "marmoreus" literally means "marble-like".  The legs are cream coloured with darker bands.

There are two varieties; one is marbled all over, while the other has a cream or yellow coloured patch on the dorsal side of the abdomen with a darker coloured, roughly triangular patch.  The latter (known as var. pyramidatus) is the most frequently seen and recorded variety in the UK.


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