Abandoned-web Orb-Weaver

Parawixia dehaani

Parawixia dehaani is a lesser-known species within the Araneidae family, which encompasses a wide variety of orb-weaver spiders. Orb-weavers are renowned for their wheel-shaped webs, which they use to catch prey. While specific details about Parawixia dehaani might not be widely documented in popular resources, We can provide general information about the genus Parawixia and orb-weaver spiders, which could give insights into the biology and ecology of this species.

Classification

KINGDOM

:

Animalia

PHYLUM

:

Arthropoda

CLASS

:

Arachnida

ORDER

:

Araneae

FAMILY

:

Araneidae

GENUS

:

Parawixia

SPECIES

:

Parawixia dehaani

Other Information

Venomous?

Parawixia dehaani is likely venomous, using its venom to immobilize prey caught in its web. The venom of orb-weaver spiders is typically not harmful to humans, causing at most minor symptoms such as localized pain or swelling.

A Danger to Humans?

Orb-weaver spiders, including those in the Parawixia genus, are not aggressive towards humans and will only bite if they feel threatened and have no means of escape.

Population Status

Specific data on the population size and status of Parawixia dehaani may be limited. The abundance of orb-weaver spiders can vary greatly depending on environmental conditions, habitat availability, and geographic location.

Abandoned-web Orb-Weaver (Parawixia dehaani), Photo by David Lowenthal

Life Span:
The lifespan of orb-weaver spiders, including those in the Parawixia genus, can vary. Many species live for about one year, with females often dying after laying eggs. The males generally have shorter lifespans.

Weight and Length:
Orb-weaver spiders can vary in size, but they generally have robust bodies and can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length. Specific measurements for Parawixia dehaani would depend on direct observations of the species.

Distribution:
The Parawixia genus is primarily found in the Americas, with species distributed in various environments from tropical to temperate regions. The exact distribution of Parawixia dehaani would be determined by its specific habitat preferences.

Abandoned-web Orb-Weaver (Parawixia dehaani), Photo by David Lowenthal

Habits and Lifestyle:
Orb-weavers, including Parawixia species, are primarily nocturnal, constructing or repairing their webs at night to catch prey. During the day, they may hide in vegetation or retreats near their web.

Diet and Nutrition:
The diet mainly consists of flying insects such as flies, moths, and beetles that become trapped in their webs. Orb-weaver spiders play a significant role in controlling insect populations in their habitats.

Mating Habits:
Mating behavior in orb-weavers can involve complex courtship rituals, with males often needing to approach females cautiously to avoid being mistaken for prey. After mating, females typically lay eggs in silk egg sacs, which they place in protected areas.

PHOTO COLLECTION

Reference