ARACHNIDA > ARANEAE > Dysderidae

Dysderidae is a small family of just four species in two genera, Dysdera, the 'true' woodlouse spiders, and Harpactea, which are rather similar in general appearance. All four species have a narrow, oval-shaped plain abdomen lacking any defined pattern. They have six eyes, rather than the normal eight, which are clustered together in a circular formation.

Dysdera crocata is said to be widespread and relatively common across much of southern Britain, whereas Dysdera erythrina is very local and far less frequent. Both species have been recorded from my general area, although I'm still to find one.

Harpactea hombergi is the most common and the most widespread of the four species. Going by the book, it can only be reliably distinguished by microscopic examination as it cannot otherwise be separated from the much rarer Harpactea rubicunda.  But that species has only been recorded a handful of times from an area in Essex so, in practice, it can be disregarded.

It is mainly active at night, normally sheltering during the day under bark, stones or dry litter, often within a silk cell. It may also be found in ivy, under hedges or even in birds' nests. The carapace is dark brown, tapering towards the head. The abdomen and legs are pale brown.

The individual featured here was appropriately found in my neighbour's stable yard whilst I was looking for a particular species of woodlouse.

New family added, Nov.23 (v.1)