Slater-eating Spider
Scientific Name: Dysdera crocota
Other Common Names: Woodlouse Spider (USA), Woodlouse Hunter (USA)
Species documented in 1838 by C. L. Koch.
Description
The Slater-
eating Spider has an orange-reddish upper body, and a light grey-orange abdomen. Males are
approximately 11mm and females around 14mm in length. They have large fangs to aid in the
capture of prey. They have six eyes arranged in an oval formation.
Reproduction/Lifecycle
After mating in
April, the female builds a silk retreat and lays up to 70 eggs. The female will stay sealed in
the retreat until the eggs hatch. She will then stay with her spiderlings for a short time
until leaving the retreat.
Habitat
The Slater-eating Spider lives primarily in ground habitats,
under rocks, logs, etcetera. It is found throughout south-east Australia. It prefers warm and
damp habitats. In other parts of the world it is known as the Woodlouse Spider. Woodlouse being
another word for slaters.
Diet
Miscellaneous
The bite of this spider can reportedly cause itchy local reactions, and a
redness of the area. Due to the large fangs of this spider, the bite can be painful. The bite
is not considered dangerous, but if bitten, please seek medical advice.
Found in:
SA,TAS,VIC,
References/Bibliography:
http://nbn.nhm.ac.uk/nhm/bin/nbntaxa.dll/taxon_details?
taxon_key=NBNSYS0000008632
Judy Sedbrook, 2005. Dysdera crocata.
Available from: <http://www.coopext.colostate.edu/4DMG/Pests/dysdera.htm>. [Accessed 16th
January 2007]
Steve Jacobs, Rev. 2006. Commonly Encountered PA Spiders -
Penn State Entomology Department Fact Sheet, The Pennsylvania State University. Available
from: < http://www.ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/Spider/dysderidae.htm> [Accessed
16th January 2007]
