Bug Identifier
Ground Spider
Community identification

Ground Spider

Gnaphosidae family

Order & Family
Order: Araneae, Family: Gnaphosidae
Size
5 to 15 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found under rocks, logs, and leaf litter, as well as inside homes near floorboards.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds primarily on other insects and small spiders.

Behavior Patterns

Active hunters that do not spin webs to catch prey; they are typically nocturnal and use silk only for egg sacs and retreats.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial to ecosystems and humans as they help control pest insect populations; they are generally harmless to humans, as their venom is not medically significant.