Cyrtophora moluccensis is a species within the genus Cyrtophora, known as Dome Web Spider. These spiders are distinguished from other orb-weavers by their non-sticky, dome-shaped webs and a different approach to capturing prey. Cyrtophora moluccensis constructs large, horizontal, tent-shaped webs which are quite complex and can house multiple individuals. These webs do not rely on stickiness to capture prey but rather on the structure to entangle and confuse insects, allowing the spider to attack.
Dome Web Spider
Cyrtophora moluccensis
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Arthropoda
CLASS
:
Arachnida
ORDER
:
Araneae
FAMILY
:
Araneidae
GENUS
:
Cyrtophora
SPECIES
:
Cyrtophora moluccensis
Other Information
Venomous?
Like most spiders, Cyrtophora moluccensis is venomous, using its venom to subdue prey. The venom is not considered dangerous to humans, typically causing no more than minor symptoms if a bite occurs.
A Danger to Humans?
There is minimal danger to humans from Cyrtophora moluccensis. They are not aggressive towards humans and are more likely to retreat than attack. Bites are rare and not medically significant.
Population Status
Specific data on the population size of Cyrtophora moluccensis is not widely documented. However, the species is known to occur in suitable habitats where its unique web-building can be supported.
Dome Web Spider (Cyrtophora moluccensis), Photo by David Lowenthal
Life Span:
The lifespan of Cyrtophora moluccensis can vary, but many spiders live for about a year, with females often living longer, especially if they are in a protected environment that supports year-round web building and feeding.
Weight and Length:
Male 4-6 mm. Female 14-22 mm
Distribution:
Singapore, Malaysia (Sabah), Indonesia (Maluku, Bali), parts of China, India, Japan and Australia.
Habits and Lifestyle:
These spiders are known for their communal web structures, where individual spiders have their own ‘tents’ within a larger web complex. This communal living helps in protecting against predators and increases the chances of capturing prey.
Diet and Nutrition:
Cyrtophora moluccensis feeds on flying insects that become ensnared in the structural web. The web’s design is meant to confuse and trap insects, allowing the spider to consume a variety of prey.
Mating Habits:
Mating in Cyrtophora moluccensis involves careful courtship rituals, with males needing to approach females with caution to avoid being attacked. After mating, females lay eggs within the web complex, ensuring some level of communal protection for the offspring.
PHOTO COLLECTION
Reference
- https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/120520-Cyrtophora-moluccensis
- Book: A Photographic Guide To Singapore Spiders