Bug Identifier
Ant-mimic spider
Community identification

Ant-mimic spider

Castianeira longipalpa

Order & Family
Order: Araneae; Family: Corinnidae
Size
Approximately 7 to 13 mm in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found in leaf litter, under rocks, or on various natural and man-made structures in gardens and woodlands.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds mainly on small insects and other spiders, using its speed to ambush prey.

Behavior Patterns

Notable for its mimicry of ants in both appearance and movement, including waving its front legs like antennae to avoid bird predation and sneak up on prey.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling pest insect populations; they are generally harmless to humans, although they can bite if provoked, with effects similar to a minor bee sting.