ARACHNIDA > ARANEAE > Theridiidae

Theridiidae is a large diverse family of 58 species in 25 genera of which half are categorised as being either rare or scarce. Whilst they are collectively known as 'comb-footed spiders', the name isn't particularly useful to the casual observer as the feature is barely visible.

My current observations are limited to just four species.

First up are the 'candy-striped spiders' that have three colour forms; two with red markings, form redimita with a pair of red longitudinal bands, and form ovata with a single broad abdominal band which covers most of the dorsal surface; the other is lineata, which is regarded as the more common form, where the abdomen is completely yellowish-white with two lateral rows of black spots and/or merged markings. I've labelled both of the individuals below as Enoplognatha cf.ovata purely on the basis of pictures I've seen and the fact that it's the more abundant of two very similar species that can only be reliably distinguished from detailed examination. The other is Enoplognatha latimana that seems to be more of a coastal species. An arachnologist would probably correct me, saying that Enoplognatha ovata / latimana would be a better description as many records are confirmed as such. The Enoplognatha genus includes four other clearly different species that don't have the red candy stripe markings.

Unfortunately, the identity of the tiny, immature, out of season Parasteatoda sp. that I found can't be determined at this stage, but it's probably Parasteatoda simulans. There are three species in the genus, all having rather variable colouring and abdominal patterns which, even if this individual was fully developed, could make it difficult to distinguish with certainty. However, each species has different habits and habitat preferences that can help. Parasteatoda tepidariorum can definitely be disregarded in this case, as it's a synanthropic species that's far more likely to be found in heated greenhouses than outside in the middle of winter. However, the other two, Parasteadoda simulans and Parasteadoda lunata, could be confused although, from photos I've seen, the typical forms of each are quite different.

Next is one of the most discussed British spiders, the Noble False Widow, Steatoda noblis, that is regionally common in some areas. It's typically found around houses both in outbuildings and gardens, and has gained a bit of a reputation of being a spider to avoid if you don't want to be bitten. I haven't put it to the test, but haven't had any problems with those I've found, including the wasp-killer that lives above my workbench. The abdominal markings are distinctive although variable, such that darker individuals with less defined patterns may be difficult to distinguish. I've photographed a couple where I've had to seek confirmation.

My final species at present is the closely related Common False Widow, Steatoda bipunctata, that is also frequently found around houses and outbuildings. The abdomen, which has a shiny, waxy appearance, is typically pale brown in colour darkening to almost black on the sides and, in most cases if you have good top view, there are four distinctive dark spots.

Updated, Jan.25 (v.3)